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For some reason, most of the cheaper Galaxy S4's for sale on eBay are from US Cellular. Can those be unlocked for use on GSM carriers such as AT&T?
Thanks
Zoide_ said:
For some reason, most of the cheaper Galaxy S4's for sale on eBay are from US Cellular. Can those be unlocked for use on GSM carriers such as AT&T?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I dont think it will be possible :crying:
Zoide_ said:
For some reason, most of the cheaper Galaxy S4's for sale on eBay are from US Cellular. Can those be unlocked for use on GSM carriers such as AT&T?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope. They are CDMA.
KillaHurtz said:
Nope. They are CDMA.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The verizon s3 had gsm capabilities after some tinkering (I think it involved flashing a different rom), so I was hoping the same might eventually be possible with the us cellular s4. Does anybody know if the us cellular is purely cdma and not possibly a world phone with hidden gsm capabilities?
I have seen a few galaxy S4 listed as I9500 from US Cellular. I asked the sellers about it and they say they don't know. But I9500 is a GSM model and US Cellular is a CDMA carrier.
US Cellular will not work on other carrier
According to this reliable source s4 US Cellular is strictly CDMA, not like Verizon counter part.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samsung_Galaxy_S4
HS™ said:
I dont think it will be possible :crying:
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Click to collapse
I tryed to put all codes in dial app not even imeis code work..I found one the works..##366633# is restricting me to a dm enable disable mode any ideas what is it?
tsoupa said:
I tryed to put all codes in dial app not even imeis code work..I found one the works..##366633# is restricting me to a dm enable disable mode any ideas what is it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Developer Mode
I know, this is an old thread but I like the old phones.
I can confirm that a US Cellular Samsung S4 Model SCH-R970 can make calls and do SMS on a GSM carrier (Verizon) in my case. My problem is 4G data isn't working, yet. Edit: I am able to get 3G data going, but 4G is not.
I recently picked up a cheap but perfectly good US Cellular S4 and was able to use my Verizon SIM to make calls and SMS. It appears that the phone is only set to CDMA so data with Verizon isn't active at this moment (I am using wifi). The trick to getting the voice and text working was letting the phone go through 5-6 system updates over the course of 5-6 hours yesterday over wi-fi. After the last one, the phone "unlocked" from US Cellular** and let me use my Verizon sim to make calls and send text.
**This falls in line with what it says here uscellular dot com:
"4G LTE Devices
All 4G LTE devices launched by U.S. Cellular on or after February 1, 2016 are sold unlocked. Select 4G LTE devices (listed below) that were launched before February 1, 2016 are unlocked by installing the latest software update. Please refer to the Software Updates page to find the latest software version available for these devices and for instructions on how to download the latest software update."
ref: www uscellular dot com/site/legal/mobile-wireless-device-unlocking.html
I always liked my S4 so when my S5 broke (dead screen) I picked up an S4 cheap. I can't stomach paying $200-800 for a new or ussed S5-S8 phone.
Does anyone know how to add the GSM settings into the phone so I can select that as my data network?? Currently the phone only displays CDMA/LTE as the choices.
mergs! said:
I know, this is an old thread but I like the old phones.
I can confirm that a USCC Samsung S4 can make calls and do SMS on a GSM carrier (Verizon) in my case. My problem is 4G data isn't working, yet.
I recently picked up a cheap but perfectly good US Cellular S4 and was able to use my Verizon SIM to make calls and SMS. It appears that the phone is only set to CDMA so data with Verizon isn't active at this moment (I am using wifi). The trick to getting the voice and text working was letting the phone go through 5-6 system updates over the course of 5-6 hours yesterday over wi-fi. After the last one, the phone "unlocked" from US Cellular** and let me use my Verizon sim to make calls and send text.
**This falls in line with what it says here uscellular dot com:
"4G LTE Devices
All 4G LTE devices launched by U.S. Cellular on or after February 1, 2016 are sold unlocked. Select 4G LTE devices (listed below) that were launched before February 1, 2016 are unlocked by installing the latest software update. Please refer to the Software Updates page to find the latest software version available for these devices and for instructions on how to download the latest software update."
ref: www uscellular dot com/site/legal/mobile-wireless-device-unlocking.html
I always liked my S4 so when my S5 broke (dead screen) I picked up an S4 cheap. I can't stomach paying $200-800 for a new or ussed S5-S8 phone.
Does anyone know how to add the GSM settings into the phone so I can select that as my data network?? Currently the phone only displays CDMA/LTE as the choices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Verizon is a CDMA/LTE carrier.
dennis5pia said:
Verizon is a CDMA/LTE carrier.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah, OK then I stand corrected. Perhaps I am running a fool's errand here (trying to get GSM going).
Let me update the situation: my current status is that 3G data is working on the SCH-R970 US Cellular phone (with a Verizon sim) but 4G never kicks in. Maybe I just need to visit a Verizon store.
mergs! said:
Ah, OK then I stand corrected. Perhaps I am running a fool's errand here (trying to get GSM going).
Let me update the situation: my current status is that 3G data is working on the SCH-R970 US Cellular phone (with a Verizon sim) but 4G never kicks in. Maybe I just need to visit a Verizon store.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you add the Verizon LTE APN?
dennis5pia said:
Did you add the Verizon LTE APN?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep, thanks. I attempted to do that. But I don't believe I the setting took hold.
Details: I used "Offline SIM APN" tool (from Play Store), and manually entered the settings that I found online for Verizon. The Os is now 5.0.1 and the tool says it can no longer add the APN automatically on Android v4.0 or higher, so I did it manually. It appears to be in the phone but I don't know how to activate it on the phone.
mergs! said:
Yep, thanks. I attempted to do that. But I don't believe I the setting took hold.
Details: I used "Offline SIM APN" tool (from Play Store), and manually entered the settings that I found online for Verizon. The Os is now 5.0.1 and the tool says it can no longer add the APN automatically on Android v4.0 or higher, so I did it manually. It appears to be in the phone but I don't know how to activate it on the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I managed to add APN in an old phone a few years ago by editing the build.pro file, but you need to be rooted in order to do that.
My family has account with Verizon, and I live 1/2 year overseas in Asia where it has only 3G ( atm, no 4G/ LTE yet) . Also, I plan to use prepaid number sometimes like from Tmobile, H20wireless, Ptel or whatever for 2nd number/backup whenever I am in the States.
So, which version of Note 3 should I buy ? the international N9005 or the Verizon version ( no problem to have another line with them to have a primary number for myself ) ? or even Tmobile/ATT version ? Of course, I want to have fastest internet speed in US. TIA
abced123 said:
My family has account with Verizon, and I live 1/2 year overseas in Asia where it has only 3G ( atm, no 4G/ LTE yet) . Also, I plan to use prepaid number sometimes like from Tmobile, H20wireless, Ptel or whatever for 2nd number/backup whenever I am in the States.
So, which version of Note 3 should I buy ? the international N9005 or the Verizon version ( no problem to have another line with them to have a primary number for myself ) ? or even Tmobile/ATT version ? Of course, I want to have fastest internet speed in US. TIA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you want to use a prepaid simcard your basically forcing yourself into a non verizon N3. If you use verizon N3 you can simswap overseas but not domestically. If you want total freedom, N9005 but then you cannot use verizon.
abced123 said:
My family has account with Verizon, and I live 1/2 year overseas in Asia where it has only 3G ( atm, no 4G/ LTE yet) . Also, I plan to use prepaid number sometimes like from Tmobile, H20wireless, Ptel or whatever for 2nd number/backup whenever I am in the States.
So, which version of Note 3 should I buy ? the international N9005 or the Verizon version ( no problem to have another line with them to have a primary number for myself ) ? or even Tmobile/ATT version ? Of course, I want to have fastest internet speed in US. TIA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think u should buy a International N9005
I just got a Verizon note 3 and was told that it was not unlocked for use in the United states. I complained to Verizon that I paid the whole Cosy of the phone up front and that didn't want a contract. They told me that it is not possible to unlock the phone from Verizon wireless. Come to find out that a att sim, t-mobile works just fine. I'm so confused as to why my phone is unlocked here in the states and afar?
Can anyone help me to understand this issue.?
sent from my rooted Note 3
TXtaco956 said:
I just got a Verizon note 3 and was told that it was not unlocked for use in the United states. I complained to Verizon that I paid the whole Cosy of the phone up front and that didn't want a contract. They told me that it is not possible to unlock the phone from Verizon wireless. Come to find out that a att sim, t-mobile works just fine. I'm so confused as to why my phone is unlocked here in the states and afar?
Can anyone help me to understand this issue.?
sent from my rooted Note 3
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am confused too... from this thread , it seems like Note 3 VZ is factory unlocked and able to get LTE from Tmobile just fine http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2582747
Hey guys. Is the Verizon S5 CDMA + GSM?
Is it factory unlocked?
Can it be used on T-mobile with everything working correctly (LTE/4G)?
Thanks
nthydro said:
Hey guys. Is the Verizon S5 CDMA + GSM?
Is it factory unlocked?
Can it be used on T-mobile with everything working correctly (LTE/4G)?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know the answer to your question but I can confirm that the Galaxy S5 that I received from TMobile was in fact LOCKED.
I called the support # and was told that I had to have service and use it for 40 days before it could be unlocked.
I PAID THE FULL PRICE ($720 with tax)!!!
I asked to speak with a supervisor -- after 10 minutes on hold -- no change.
I told the store that I was going to bring it back because I didn't pay $700 for a locked phone. Everyone has been nice but it's locked for policy issues and not for technical reasons. I flew to Canada when I bought my iPhone4.
And, AT&T is worse -- one guy told me 3 months and tech support said it had to be active for 6 months.
>> So, my AT&T sim card is not working in my SM-G900T model.
It is GSM/LTE unlocked (as are all Verizon LTE devices), but I'm pretty sure it doesn't have T-Mobile's LTE bands (or at the very least it doesn't have all of their bands).
From what I have been reading, on a Verizon phone, calls and data using GSM and WCDMA bands would work. But LTE bands are Verizon specific hence would not work.
Tl; Dr Voice /data using GSM/WCDMA. No LTE.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk
---------- Post added at 07:30 AM ---------- Previous post was at 07:26 AM ----------
alex_tytn said:
I don't know the answer to your question but I can confirm that the Galaxy S5 that I received from TMobile was in fact LOCKED.
I called the support # and was told that I had to have service and use it for 40 days before it could be unlocked.
I PAID THE FULL PRICE ($720 with tax)!!!
I asked to speak with a supervisor -- after 10 minutes on hold -- no change.
I told the store that I was going to bring it back because I didn't pay $700 for a locked phone. Everyone has been nice but it's locked for policy issues and not for technical reasons. I flew to Canada when I bought my iPhone4.
And, AT&T is worse -- one guy told me 3 months and tech support said it had to be active for 6 months.
>> So, my AT&T sim card is not working in my SM-G900T model.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does this mean, once unlocked, T-Mobile and AT&T versions would work on each other's networks including LTE?
I also noticed that with S5, there aren't GSM carrier specific versions. Meaning they are going IPhone route with making all GSM phones enabled that for that country's LTE bands. Is that right reading?
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk
it is unlocked
I am using the verizon s5 on tmobile. It is unlocked and can be used on tmobile LTE. However there are only set modes. LTE/CDMA GSM/UMTS AND GLOBAL. Which means you can't use lte and gsm at the same time (no lte data and voice calls). I usually keep it on gsm, and when I need speedy data I switch it to lte.
alex_tytn said:
I don't know the answer to your question but I can confirm that the Galaxy S5 that I received from TMobile was in fact LOCKED.
I called the support # and was told that I had to have service and use it for 40 days before it could be unlocked.
I PAID THE FULL PRICE ($720 with tax)!!!
I asked to speak with a supervisor -- after 10 minutes on hold -- no change.
I told the store that I was going to bring it back because I didn't pay $700 for a locked phone. Everyone has been nice but it's locked for policy issues and not for technical reasons. I flew to Canada when I bought my iPhone4.
And, AT&T is worse -- one guy told me 3 months and tech support said it had to be active for 6 months.
>> So, my AT&T sim card is not working in my SM-G900T model.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
T-Mobile isn't locked.
Sent from my SM-G900T
drworsley said:
I am using the verizon s5 on tmobile. It is unlocked and can be used on tmobile LTE. However there are only set modes. LTE/CDMA GSM/UMTS AND GLOBAL. Which means you can't use lte and gsm at the same time (no lte data and voice calls). I usually keep it on gsm, and when I need speedy data I switch it to lte.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How? If you put a TMobile SIM in the phone, or any other foreign SIM, it boots but receives no service. This is in line with almost all other Verizon branded phones (excluding Apple) -- where the phone works (unlocked) outside the US, but won't roam to ATT/TMo in the US.
Pictures please. For the record, my S5 doesn't register on a network with a TMobile or Australian SIM. The Australian SIM in a Nexus 5 roams to TMobile.
-- Dan
Cpudan80 said:
How? If you put a TMobile SIM in the phone, or any other foreign SIM, it boots but receives no service. This is in line with almost all other Verizon branded phones (excluding Apple) -- where the phone works (unlocked) outside the US, but won't roam to ATT/TMo in the US.
Pictures please. For the record, my S5 doesn't register on a network with a TMobile or Australian SIM. The Australian SIM in a Nexus 5 roams to TMobile.
-- Dan
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This was probably true about a year ago but the recent releases from Verizon, e.g. iPhone 5/5s and galaxy s4 has been fully unlocked world phones. I'm sure there are a few other phones... I think lg g2? I'm not exactly sure. But I have personally stuck my sim(T-Mobile) into my friend's Verizon phones (s4 and iPhone 5s) and they work right away after a reboot. Only problem might be an edit in APN for data and mms. Just sharing my experience, you should check out your phones again.
Teo032 said:
This was probably true about a year ago but the recent releases from Verizon, e.g. iPhone 5/5s and galaxy s4 has been fully unlocked world phones. I'm sure there are a few other phones... I think lg g2? I'm not exactly sure. But I have personally stuck my sim(T-Mobile) into my friend's Verizon phones (s4 and iPhone 5s) and they work right away after a reboot. Only problem might be an edit in APN for data and mms. Just sharing my experience, you should check out your phones again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not trying to be a jerk, but unless you tried this process in the actual phone in question, then you don't really know if it works. The phone DOES NOT just magically work on TMobile if you put a SIM in, you receive NO service. Now, I didn't go mess around with APNs -- typically those are only for MMS/Data. This is also true for several other phones:
Razr HD / Maxx HD
Galaxy S3
In the past, when the phones were SIM locked, a foreign SIM would prompt for an unlock code before the phone even booted into "normal" Android. That's not the case here -- because the phone is not SIM locked -- but I do believe it is network locked to VZW only when in the US.
For the record, I did try this in my S5. I will be going to Australia next week and will try a Telstra (or perhaps Optus) SIM over there to see what happens.
-- Dan
Cpudan80 said:
Not trying to be a jerk, but unless you tried this process in the actual phone in question, then you don't really know if it works. The phone DOES NOT just magically work on TMobile if you put a SIM in, you receive NO service. Now, I didn't go mess around with APNs -- typically those are only for MMS/Data. This is also true for several other phones:
Razr HD / Maxx HD
Galaxy S3
In the past, when the phones were SIM locked, a foreign SIM would prompt for an unlock code before the phone even booted into "normal" Android. That's not the case here -- because the phone is not SIM locked -- but I do believe it is network locked to VZW only when in the US.
For the record, I did try this in my S5. I will be going to Australia next week and will try a Telstra (or perhaps Optus) SIM over there to see what happens.
-- Dan
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I haven't tried it on the s5, but I was pointing out fact that it does work on recent releases which someone confirmed worked on s5 by just plugging it in. I'm also correcting your statement " This is in line with almost all other Verizon branded phones (excluding Apple) -- where the phone works (unlocked) outside the US, but won't roam to ATT/TMo in the US." because Verizon apple does work in the US on T-Mobile and AT&T beginning from iPhone 5. I believe the 4s was still carrier locked.
I was a wireless agent not to long ago, so I know how these things work, not that it magically just works... I'm just sharing you how some recent releases from Verizon has been world unlocked and a few others have mentioned that they just plugged it in and it worked. So good luck and have fun in Australia.
Teo032 said:
Yes, I haven't tried it on the s5, but I was pointing out fact that it does work on recent releases which someone confirmed worked on s5 by just plugging it in. I'm also correcting your statement " This is in line with almost all other Verizon branded phones (excluding Apple) -- where the phone works (unlocked) outside the US, but won't roam to ATT/TMo in the US." because Verizon apple does work in the US on T-Mobile and AT&T beginning from iPhone 5. I believe the 4s was still carrier locked.
I was a wireless agent not to long ago, so I know how these things work, not that it magically just works... I'm just sharing you how some recent releases from Verizon has been world unlocked and a few others have mentioned that they just plugged it in and it worked. So good luck and have fun in Australia.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK Thanks.
It is odd that the apple phones -- and some of the Android phones -- are totally unlocked so that you can use them on ATT/TMobile in the US -- but some (like the S5, apparently) are not. I still am interested to know how some of the other users in this thread got their S5s working on TMobile...
Why would anyone want to buy a Verizon GS5 and use it on T-Mobile? The bootloader is locked and there is currently no unlock method available.
Would you like to exchange?
Would you like to exchange your verizon s5 with my tmobile s5?
i wanted to use it for verizon but the phone is locked to tmobile and at&t.
It would be ideol if i can find someone to exchange it with someone who has a verizon s5 and is looking for tmobile or at&t s5.
thanks,
sy3dal29 said:
Would you like to exchange your verizon s5 with my tmobile s5?
i wanted to use it for verizon but the phone is locked to tmobile and at&t.
It would be ideol if i can find someone to exchange it with someone who has a verizon s5 and is looking for tmobile or at&t s5.
thanks,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You could check out Swappa. There may be some people that are interested.
nthydro said:
Hey guys. Is the Verizon S5 CDMA + GSM?
Is it factory unlocked?
Can it be used on T-mobile with everything working correctly (LTE/4G)?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can confirm the Verizon GS5 is compatible with T-Mobiles LTE network I'm using one now with LTE all you have to do is go to settings mobile network and switch to Global mode some times you'll have to toggle LTE then back to global to get LTE to kick in.
I am able to successfully use my VZ Galaxy Note 3 and my wife uses her VZ Galaxy S5, both devices on T-mobile Edge, HSPA, HSPA+ (21mbps), and LTE (band 4) frequencies. These devices unfortunately will not do DC-HSPA+ (42mbps), but that's not a big deal for us because LTE coverage is good where we live. We have no issues with making voice calls, or sending SMS/MMS, and don't have to switch APN's or toggle between Global Mode or GSM/UMTS mode. We leave them on Global Mode with the correct APN settings.
Here's the guide I followed for both (with correct APN settings screenshots to accommodate for MMS on page 4 or 5 i believe):
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2582747
..
How
drworsley said:
I am using the verizon s5 on tmobile. It is unlocked and can be used on tmobile LTE. However there are only set modes. LTE/CDMA GSM/UMTS AND GLOBAL. Which means you can't use lte and gsm at the same time (no lte data and voice calls). I usually keep it on gsm, and when I need speedy data I switch it to lte.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How did you unlock the Verizon S5? BTW theres a bounty on doing so.
..
This is all new info to me. I have an AT&T galaxy S5 that I want to use on Verizon. Is it possible or do I need to trade for a Verizon-specific model?
Hi,
Looking for some advise here.
I want to buy a Note 3 for use outside of the US.
Lack of research led me to purchase a Sprint variant which was internationally locked and is now a lovely brick on my desk.
Is there any model that I can purchase straight off of ebay that is internationally unlocked?
Thanks in advance guys!
N900
Sent from my SM-N900 using Tapatalk
@Puff1911 I have n9005 . There is a sticker on its box which says its only for EU and US but im using it in Pakistan and I bought it from Pakistan.
Sent from Galaxy Note 3 SM-N9005
deadlyheart4u said:
N900
Sent from my SM-N900 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
isn't n900 the general model number?
the variations I know are N900V (Verizon), N900P (Sprint), N900A (AT&T), N9005 (International?)
thahim said:
@Puff1911 I have n9005 . There is a sticker on its box which says its only for EU and US but im using it in Pakistan and I bought it from Pakistan.
Sent from Galaxy Note 3 SM-N9005
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ok.. i'll look into that one..
someone told me the Verizon model comes internationally unlocked.. can anyone verify that?
I bought mine from amazon. It is a N9005 LTE international version region unlocked.
Look for the amazon description that says it. You cannot get LTE in USA though.
Mine came without the "region lock" sticker so I assume it is not locked.
xdm9mm said:
I bought mine from amazon. It is a N9005 LTE international version region unlocked.
Look for the amazon description that says it. You cannot get LTE in USA though.
Mine came without the "region lock" sticker so I assume it is not locked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
trying to avoid buying it brand new.. I just used them for testing and playing around..
Currently have HTC 8X as my main phone.. but I have 3 HTC One that I use for testing in various conditions and ROMS..
Want to try out some of the Samsung line as well..
But that's why I was checking on eBay for the phone.. so I could get a used phone in good condition to play with.
Puff1911 said:
trying to avoid buying it brand new.. I just used them for testing and playing around..
Currently have HTC 8X as my main phone.. but I have 3 HTC One that I use for testing in various conditions and ROMS..
Want to try out some of the Samsung line as well..
But that's why I was checking on eBay for the phone.. so I could get a used phone in good condition to play with.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just ask the vendor to uncheck the reactivation lock on the phone or you can`t boot it up (enter sim code) after a wipe cause it asks you for a password (Samsung account of the former owner).
gee2012 said:
Just ask the vendor to uncheck the reactivation lock on the phone or you can`t boot it up after a wipe cause it asks you for a password (Samsung account of the former owner).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It will take more than that.. the international lock is set by the service provider.. in the case of Sprint.. as with the phone I bought.. the phone has to be active on their service for 6months and in good standing for them to do the international unlock.
As it is now.. it's locked to US domestic networks only... I can sim unlock and root etc.. but I won't recognize any sim outside of the US.
I'm not sure of any of the service providers have their phone internationally unlocked by default.. I was told Verizon's phones are internationally unlocked.. but haven't been able to get confirmation on that.
Puff1911 said:
It will take more than that.. the international lock is set by the service provider.. in the case of Sprint.. as with the phone I bought.. the phone has to be active on their service for 6months and in good standing for them to do the international unlock.
As it is now.. it's locked to US domestic networks only... I can sim unlock and root etc.. but I won't recognize any sim outside of the US.
I'm not sure of any of the service providers have their phone internationally unlocked by default.. I was told Verizon's phones are internationally unlocked.. but haven't been able to get confirmation on that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thought you we`re looking to buy the unlocked international N9005 I`am glad i`am not with a US provider, we don`t have these absurd rules here in the EU thank god.
gee2012 said:
Thought you we`re looking to buy the unlocked international N9005
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well if that turns out to be the only option then yeah.. but hoping to be able to get one of the others to work with... i'll check up the 9005 though.
Puff1911 said:
isn't n900 the general model number?
the variations I know are N900V (Verizon), N900P (Sprint), N900A (AT&T), N9005 (International?)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can get the list of All Available Models in my app's description: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.vndnguyen.phoneinfo
SM-N900, SM-N9002, SM-N9005, SM-N9006, SM-N9007, SM-N9008, SM-N9009, SM-N900A, SM-N900D (SC-01F), SM-N900J (SCL22), SM-N900K, SM-N900L, SM-N900P, SM-N9000Q, SM-N900R4, SM-N900S, SM-N900T, SM-N900V, SM-N900W8, SM-N900X
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For international use you should get SM-N900 (Exynos octa-core) or SM-N9005 (Qualcomm quad-core).
Hello,
This is has been a very frustrating situation but here is where I am at currently. I use a carrier called "Simple Mobile" and they are an under carrier to TMobile. I want to own and use a Samsung Note 3 but can not get my SIM to work. That is the short introduction. I am providing some more information because this has been a long drawn out process but the bottom line is I want to continue using Simple Mobile AND use a Note 3.
Background: Back in late June 2014, I bought a used Note 3 N900V from ebay after I broke my Note 1. I love my Note 1 and it was the ATT branded model. I had the phone (Note 3)and it worked but had a very poor signal compared to using the same SIM card with my Note 1 (those threads are still available under my username). After many failed attempts to correct the situation and being educated about the phone model and so forth I found it in my best interest to return the phone for a refund and just repair my Note 1.
Currently: I repaired my Note 1 after the fiasco with the N900V model. However, my screen went purple recently and then wouldn't light up at all anymore. So I am where I was last time and looking to replace it. This time, armed with my knowledge from last time, I bought another Note 3 (model N900T this time), thinking it would be more compatible with my Simple Mobile (sub carried by T Mobile) as the N900T is a T-Mobile friendly phone. NOTE: I bought the phone used and through a mistake of the seller, what I have is actually a N900W8. The seller had replaced the screen and did a motherboard swap. The result is a phone with markings that say N900T but after a boot up provides software descriptions showing N900W8.
Why do I want to use Simple Mobile so bad? : Simple mobile charges me 40.00 + tax for Unlimited Data, Calls and Texts domestically + limited international texting to certain countries. For me, that is a great deal and I dont have to do a contract or pay extortionate fees to other providers. Yes, I am a cheap Bas*&^d as evidenced by me buying used phones to save a few hundred $$$'s here and there.
Dilemma: In my bid to purchase a Note 3 that works I looked at the Simple Mobile site. They do indeed sell a new model N900T, Link here: <http://www.mysimplephones.com/Samsung-Galaxy-Note-III-Simple-Mobile.html> HOWEVER, when you look at another page for compatible phones you will find that the N900T is not even a compatible model for Simple Mobile's 4G LTE service. YOU WILL HOWEVER FIND that there are two models of Note 3 that WILL work. The N900W8 (Canadian Model) and the N900A (ATT). This link shows those compatible 4G LTE phones: <http://simplemobileinfoblast.com/4glte/phones.php>
Interesting note: While I do actually have a 4G LTE compatible phone technically, since the phones software shows it is a N900W8 despite the shell being embossed N900T, it will not work AT ALL on my carrier. All attempts result in "NOT REGISTERED ON NETWORK" messages. My research thus far seems to indicate that the N900W8 Models come unlocked as new so I do not feel that my phone is locked.
Conclusion: My Note 1 is broken and I don't want to repair it so I will sell it as is elsewhere. I have a Note 3 N900W8 that will not work that I am going to return to the seller since it is not even the right model to begin with. It should be noted that the screen on the N900W8 WAS replaced but not very well and there are some annoying defects on the underside of the screen as a result. So after all of this expostition, Can anyone please tell me what model of Note 3 to get that will work with my simple mobile SIM?
It is my sincere hope that someone has gone through this same situation and can help guide me a bit.
Thank you
Wallace Bagwell said:
Hello,
This is has been a very frustrating situation but here is where I am at currently. I use a carrier called "Simple Mobile" and they are an under carrier to TMobile. I want to own and use a Samsung Note 3 but can not get my SIM to work. That is the short introduction. I am providing some more information because this has been a long drawn out process but the bottom line is I want to continue using Simple Mobile AND use a Note 3.
Background: Back in late June 2014, I bought a used Note 3 N900V from ebay after I broke my Note 1. I love my Note 1 and it was the ATT branded model. I had the phone (Note 3)and it worked but had a very poor signal compared to using the same SIM card with my Note 1 (those threads are still available under my username). After many failed attempts to correct the situation and being educated about the phone model and so forth I found it in my best interest to return the phone for a refund and just repair my Note 1.
Currently: I repaired my Note 1 after the fiasco with the N900V model. However, my screen went purple recently and then wouldn't light up at all anymore. So I am where I was last time and looking to replace it. This time, armed with my knowledge from last time, I bought another Note 3 (model N900T this time), thinking it would be more compatible with my Simple Mobile (sub carried by T Mobile) as the N900T is a T-Mobile friendly phone. NOTE: I bought the phone used and through a mistake of the seller, what I have is actually a N900W8. The seller had replaced the screen and did a motherboard swap. The result is a phone with markings that say N900T but after a boot up provides software descriptions showing N900W8.
Why do I want to use Simple Mobile so bad? : Simple mobile charges me 40.00 + tax for Unlimited Data, Calls and Texts domestically + limited international texting to certain countries. For me, that is a great deal and I dont have to do a contract or pay extortionate fees to other providers. Yes, I am a cheap Bas*&^d as evidenced by me buying used phones to save a few hundred $$$'s here and there.
Dilemma: In my bid to purchase a Note 3 that works I looked at the Simple Mobile site. They do indeed sell a new model N900T, Link here: <http://www.mysimplephones.com/Samsung-Galaxy-Note-III-Simple-Mobile.html> HOWEVER, when you look at another page for compatible phones you will find that the N900T is not even a compatible model for Simple Mobile's 4G LTE service. YOU WILL HOWEVER FIND that there are two models of Note 3 that WILL work. The N900W8 (Canadian Model) and the N900A (ATT). This link shows those compatible 4G LTE phones: <http://simplemobileinfoblast.com/4glte/phones.php>
Interesting note: While I do actually have a 4G LTE compatible phone technically, since the phones software shows it is a N900W8 despite the shell being embossed N900T, it will not work AT ALL on my carrier. All attempts result in "NOT REGISTERED ON NETWORK" messages. My research thus far seems to indicate that the N900W8 Models come unlocked as new so I do not feel that my phone is locked.
Conclusion: My Note 1 is broken and I don't want to repair it so I will sell it as is elsewhere. I have a Note 3 N900W8 that will not work that I am going to return to the seller since it is not even the right model to begin with. It should be noted that the screen on the N900W8 WAS replaced but not very well and there are some annoying defects on the underside of the screen as a result. So after all of this expostition, Can anyone please tell me what model of Note 3 to get that will work with my simple mobile SIM?
It is my sincere hope that someone has gone through this same situation and can help guide me a bit.
Thank you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK, so the Note N9005 is the same as the T and w8 models except for the radio differences. From the sounds of it the N3 you pruchased may have been blocked as it's carrying the not registered on network error (which is the common one for this) however. it's possible it's locked down but my understanding is the w8 is quite unrestricted.
IN regards to what model you should/need to use, if your carrier is under the T-Mo umbrella/piggy backs of their network then you need the N900T which is T-Mo's device. - But you may wanna ring T-Mo and ask to be 100% positive.
EDIT You wanna avoid the N900A (ATT) unless you're 100% sure you can get LTE with your provider, there's been a few people who have bough the A model and haven't been able to use it due to it being for ATT only (again, radio issues.)
After re-reading, I think the N900T is the one for sure (especially as Simple sell it (doubt they'll sell a device that isn't LTE compatible?), and I would ring Simple and T-Mo for 100% clarification as obviously, dropping a few hundred $$ on a phone which may not work isn't nice.
radicalisto said:
OK, so the Note N9005 is the same as the T and w8 models except for the radio differences. From the sounds of it the N3 you pruchased may have been blocked as it's carrying the not registered on network error (which is the common one for this) however. it's possible it's locked down but my understanding is the w8 is quite unrestricted.
IN regards to what model you should/need to use, if your carrier is under the T-Mo umbrella/piggy backs of their network then you need the N900T which is T-Mo's device. - But you may wanna ring T-Mo and ask to be 100% positive.
EDIT You wanna avoid the N900A (ATT) unless you're 100% sure you can get LTE with your provider, there's been a few people who have bough the A model and haven't been able to use it due to it being for ATT only (again, radio issues.)
After re-reading, I think the N900T is the one for sure (especially as Simple sell it (doubt they'll sell a device that isn't LTE compatible?), and I would ring Simple and T-Mo for 100% clarification as obviously, dropping a few hundred $$ on a phone which may not work isn't nice.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for reading and replying...
Im quite torn but what you say makes plenty of sense.
I am under the same thought process as yours thinking that the N900T version they sell in their own shop is the model to get.... but then I read about the compatible devices with "4G LTE" and dont even see it, but instead see the N900W8 and N900A models instead. I had the N900V model Note 3 before and it "worked" on my network but the coverage and signal strength suffered greatly and displayed +H most of the time. So the N900V at least worked with my SIM vs the N900W8 not even using the network (it does show ATT and Simple Mobile networks under the network settings but cant register on either one).
I know they are different phones completely but the ATT branded Note 1 gave me no problems at all with my Simple SIM. My wife has the same model Note 1 as me and her phone actually shows 4G LTE next to the bars whereas mine only shows 4G. I called and spoke to CS a few months ago to figure out the disparity and it would seem that since I bought her SIM card more recently that mine (hers 2014 vs mine 2011) that the SIM itself makes the network 4G LTE more friendly somehow. So with that in mind I have ordered a new micro SIM from Simple thinking that it might solve some issues. The only reason I never ordered a new SIM sooner is because I wasnt really worried about the 4G LTE vs 4G problem as my UL/DL speeds were more than adequate. Hence, I am seriously thinking of trying out the N900A model.
I guess the easiest answer is that I think the N900T model "would work" but the compatible model page shows the other 2 models and not the N900T with regards to 4G LTE coverage and NOT general signal coverage.
I am going to ring T mobile and see if this model is locked down, thanks for that, good advice.
In regards to me being 100% sure about the ATT model being LTE compatible, I am thinking it would be possible (not 100% though) with regards to my wife's N1 and newer SIM (hers is also a branded ATT N1 like my broken ATT N1. with an older SIM).
Any thoughts? Thanks again...
The Note 3, changed a lot in regards to the hardware and radios used. Samsung and the carriers in their infinite wisdom trying to lock people down via either region lock, sim lock and boot loader lock downs.
It is possible that the A model will work, it could be that Simple has a deal with T-Mo and ATT in which it can use both carriers towers for H+ and LTE.
See what T-Mo say, and even give ATT a ring also, no harm in asking them direct.
Also as you've stated the sim may also have something to do with picking up LTE straight of the bat.
Ring T-Mo/ATT see what they say, then that way you know which way to go and at least doing it that way you have the comfort in knowing that the provider themselves have assured you what will and won't work.
Sent from my Spectrum ZX +2
radicalisto said:
The Note 3, changed a lot in regards to the hardware and radios used. Samsung and the carriers in their infinite wisdom trying to lock people down via either region lock, sim lock and boot loader lock downs.
It is possible that the A model will work, it could be that Simple has a deal with T-Mo and ATT in which it can use both carriers towers for H+ and LTE.
See what T-Mo say, and even give ATT a ring also, no harm in asking them direct.
Also as you've stated the sim may also have something to do with picking up LTE straight of the bat.
Ring T-Mo/ATT see what they say, then that way you know which way to go and at least doing it that way you have the comfort in knowing that the provider themselves have assured you what will and won't work.
Sent from my Spectrum ZX +2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm looking up the contact numbers for T Mobile now and will probably try to look at what ATT has to say/can do.
Simple Mobile, bless their hearts, to keep things so cheap use a calling center in the Philippines and have been of very little help to me trying to figure this out.
I'll keep this thread updated but I'm still torn between the N900V and N900A, only leaning towards the N900A because of the link I shared earlier with regards to 4G LTE compatibility. :/
Thanks again Radicalisto.
Hope you get it sorted, let me know the outcome I'm quite curious now myself. Good luck!
Sent from my Spectrum ZX +2
radicalisto said:
Hope you get it sorted, let me know the outcome I'm quite curious now myself. Good luck!
Sent from my Spectrum ZX +2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So I have finally reached a solution.
After all of the hassle and trial and error, I was able to get a Note 3 to work with 4G LTE by using a Note 3 model N900A and an updated Simple Mobile Sim card.
It seemed a little counter intuitive to use an ATT branded phone versus a T Mobile branded phone knowing that Simple is undercarried by T mobile but that is just what it took.
It should be known that I did not try and use my "old" SIM from Simple but ordered a new one and had my number transferred to the new SIM before the phone arrived. The rational behind purchasing a new SIM was based on the experience of my wife and I using our Note 1(s). Both of our Note 1(s) were ATT branded (i717). Though I bought her Simple SIM about 2 years after my own. The result was my phone only showed 4G while hers would should 4G LTE. Strange being they are both the same model phone with the same carrier but that was the fix: updated SIMs, whether it was embedded software or something else.
So for now, I can close this little chapter and enjoy my Note 3.
If anyone else is reading this, please feel free to message me and I will be happy to share anything I may have forgotten to share here.
Thanks to everyone who helped as well, I know I have a few threads on XDA looking for solutions. :/
Wallace
Good stuff, glad you got it sorted