Verizon Note 3 - Verizon Galaxy Note 3 Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Is there anything in the near future coming as far as roms,tweaks..anything for the Verizon note 3 or being that the boatloader is locked developers have lost interest...pretty bummed out...unfortunately I don't have the brain capacity to become a developer...you guys make it easy for us noobs to customize our phone...so we are pretty much a captive audience...waiting for something new...
Thanks guys...

I'm pretty sure we'll get some custom roms with the new 5.0 base whenever we actually get it. Likely just the current ones will be updated, though, and all will still have to be TouchWiz based as well. Developers get frustrated with Verizon and kinda lose interest, and I can't say I blame them. If you're really into customization, you will have way more luck with unlocked phones activated on ATT or T-Mobile right now.

ATT and T-Mobile service in my area is no where near verizon...so I guess I'm screwed...i am actually thinking of converting to ios...I loved my note 2 when I unlocked and started roming and installing CM..in was great....but know I'm on4.4.4 there isn't even root for it...Fustrated!!

Related

Looking to sell my note 3 for the G2 (Verizon)

I am currently looking to sell my Note 3 for the G2 because I took at look at the development section here compared to the Verizon Note 3 and quite frankly...im EXTREMELY JEALOUS haha. Anyway if I sell my Note 3 and buy a G2 off contract will I be able to install custom recovery? Because I can't seem to find an up to date thread on the topic. Sorry if I'm not searching correctly. I believe the Verizon G2 just got the kit kat update if I'm not mistaken and I don't know if that will hinder the ability to do that. Again sorry for being ignorant I just want AOSP again so badly and the Note 3 has to be a jerk off and have a locked bootloader with no work around so yea lol. Thanks in advance!
I wouldn't! Come on. You've got a bigger screen, removable battery, expandable storage, and slightly better specs. It's a popular phone, let the dev community build up - it will build up, trust me on that.
While those may be true. I desire a pure stock android experience. One that can be had on the G2. Numerous devs have continually said the bootloader will more than likely never be unlocked. That means horrible touchwiz nonsense forever! Literally the only thing I would miss would be the expandable storage. The difference in specs will be 100% unnoticeable. Ill just have to put my music on google music but that's no biggie considering I have Unlimited data on Verizon.
immortal7792 said:
While those may be true. I desire a pure stock android experience. One that can be had on the G2. Numerous devs have continually said the bootloader will more than likely never be unlocked. That means horrible touchwiz nonsense forever! Literally the only thing I would miss would be the expandable storage. The difference in specs will be 100% unnoticeable. Ill just have to put my music on google music but that's no biggie considering I have Unlimited data on Verizon.
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Might I suggest you wait for the Galaxy S5 or the LG G3? We're a month away from their launch.
Edit: Well, maybe more than a month but it's not far away. Also, the Nexus 6 might be perfect for you. There are rumors about a possible June launch.
You are kidding right
Your are kidding Right ? Note 3 vs G2. I have the Tmobile LG-G2 rooted and coming from a galaxy S3 I miss it. I only did it because I had EMMC failure and my S3 motherboard died on my S3. So I just got this G2 for $450.00. I could not paid $700 for a Note 3 phone that is crazy . Oh yea I know what your thinking . But you could have paid it broken down on monthly payments. (still $750 BUCKS) Don't get me wrong This LG-G2 is GREAT , but 32Gigs internal memory come on. There is something special about having internal vs ext-sd memory . That my friend is that is SUCKS! the tmobile version does not have ext-sd slot, If it did then this phone would still only be 3 stars, The sound is low even with all the mods out there . what I am trying to tell you is Keep that Note 3 Rooted and Flash a new ROM on it .
Dang....After a bunch of g2 owners telling me this i will be holding out for something else. Haha. I guess my fun with running aosp and flashing kernels is sadly at an end I don't want to accept it! And I KNOW the s5 is going to be even more locked down. God knows if the verizon variant will even get root. I hate that they are doing this. It's ruining part of the reason I love android. The development and the community. Every phone I've owned up until this one has had a vast community on here where things were constantly getting made and developed. New roms new kernels. Now, I can look at the android development section, and then look at it a month later, and nothing will have changed. Makes me a little sad.
Not sure where you heard that the bootloader would *never* be unlocked - I wouldn't place bets on that. I'd definitely suggest that you either wait for the bootloader to get unlocked (I'm already seeing 4.4.2 ROMs on the note 3 xda, can't be too long) or you wait for the Galaxy S5. If it were me, I'd keep that Note 3 and do whatever possible to make the interface stock-like - use Nova Launcher, stuff like that - until your phone eventually sees some good AOSP goodies ported over.

[BOUNTY] P605V Verizon 10.1 2014--Unlocked Bootloader

I am going to begin a bounty to all of our devs of $100 to whomever can get a working unlocked bootloader for the Verizon 4GLTE P605V Samsung Galaxy 10.1 2014 edition. It's complete nonsense that going as far back as far as April (the first post I found searching for this) that there isn't a solution.... If you own this tablet variant as well, please jump on board.
Most devs for the 10.1 2014 have moved to the pro version. So this may be really hard to get. if you look at the unlocked versions there is little to no support for them right now as well.
Sent from my T-Mobile HTC One M8
All the Verizon/Samsung locked bootloaders have been unlockable to date as well as the AT&T varieties. Check the S4, Note 3 and S5 threads.
KennyG123 said:
All the Verizon/Samsung locked bootloaders have been unlockable to date as well as the AT&T varieties. Check the S4, Note 3 and S5 threads.
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I don't really care about the S4, my Note 3 is already unlocked, and could care less about the S5 as well. What I AM concerned with is getting my 10.1 2014 Verizon edition unlocked so I can actually get TWRP on it an put on custom ROM's. For a forum filled with lots of experts and geniuses, no one seems to want to take any time or make any effort. I am literally begging! Using any version of Odin has failed trying to get TWRP on my tablet. All the ROMs I have looked at say to install that as a prerequisite. So what is a guy to do? Should I just put a round from my .45 through it and call it a day? I am outside the 14 day return window now with Verizon, so unless someone can give me a clue as to what I am doing wrong, then I am royally screwed..........
Don_Pachuco said:
I don't really care about the S4, my Note 3 is already unlocked, and could care less about the S5 as well. What I AM concerned with is getting my 10.1 2014 Verizon edition unlocked so I can actually get TWRP on it an put on custom ROM's. For a forum filled with lots of experts and geniuses, no one seems to want to take any time or make any effort. I am literally begging! Using any version of Odin has failed trying to get TWRP on my tablet. All the ROMs I have looked at say to install that as a prerequisite. So what is a guy to do? Should I just put a round from my .45 through it and call it a day? I am outside the 14 day return window now with Verizon, so unless someone can give me a clue as to what I am doing wrong, then I am royally screwed..........
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You are missing the point. Bootloaders are not a simple security hack. They are the proprietary coding that allows the device to boot. There is NO decompiling, sorting through code, figuring out the lock and then unlocking it. There needs to be an exploit to get in and change it. Which means there is a 99% chance the wrong exploit attempt will brick the device...an not the "brick" all these people talk about mistakenly on this site...a REAL brick...dead paperweight. Think that it is an issue with this sites "geniuses" not wanting to do it? Maybe you would understand better if you blindfolded yourself and tried to assemble a 5000 piece jigsaw puzzle....only you get an electric shock with every wrong piece you play.
I mentioned the other devices not to see if you "care"...it is to let you know the same method is employed to lock those as your tablet and they are just as popular with the "geniuses" that genuinely want to unlock the bootloader. AND have large bounties on them.
As to what are you supposed to do? Research next time. Buy products from a carrier that does not lock down their devices or buy a device that is not a commercial push to the military and corporate so that Verizon wants it locked down tight for more sales and contracts. Or continue to hold your breath throwing this tantrum you seem to be doing. Or...I don't know...use the tablet as it was designed to be used when sold and seems to work fine for the millions of customers who know nothing of XDA or rooting.
KennyG123 said:
You are missing the point. Bootloaders are not a simple security hack. They are the proprietary coding that allows the device to boot. There is NO decompiling, sorting through code, figuring out the lock and then unlocking it. There needs to be an exploit to get in and change it. Which means there is a 99% chance the wrong exploit attempt will brick the device...an not the "brick" all these people talk about mistakenly on this site...a REAL brick...dead paperweight. Think that it is an issue with this sites "geniuses" not wanting to do it? Maybe you would understand better if you blindfolded yourself and tried to assemble a 5000 piece jigsaw puzzle....only you get an electric shock with every wrong piece you play.
I mentioned the other devices not to see if you "care"...it is to let you know the same method is employed to lock those as your tablet and they are just as popular with the "geniuses" that genuinely want to unlock the bootloader. AND have large bounties on them.
As to what are you supposed to do? Research next time. Buy products from a carrier that does not lock down their devices or buy a device that is not a commercial push to the military and corporate so that Verizon wants it locked down tight for more sales and contracts. Or continue to hold your breath throwing this tantrum you seem to be doing. Or...I don't know...use the tablet as it was designed to be used when sold and seems to work fine for the millions of customers who know nothing of XDA or rooting.
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I would have to say that in reading text, it is generally hard to understand the tone of the text. While I wasn't throwing a tantrum, the tone of your reply is pretty unmistakable. When someone comes here genuinely looking for help and assistance with a device, is it a general practice to publicly belittle and berate them? As to my bounty, I started off low to see if others would jump on board or not. As to my carrier, I have been with Verizon from day one, get a rather large corporate discount from them on devices and accessories, and have 6 lines through them, so why just to get this tablet to do what I want it to, would I change carriers? Every device that I have had in the 'smart'phone era has been Verizon, and someone has found a way to unlock them. So I apologize if I came of looking like a prick, as that was not at all my intention. I would gladly personally pay up to $100.00 if someone could help. It is very frustrating to only be able to do half of what I want to achieve with my tablet. I'm as far as I personally can go on it. If anyone was offended by my wording, again, I am sorry for that. BTW, I changed the avatar that was only taken offense to after my post. Have a happy Sunday Funday! I know I will as I am already on bloody Mary number 4 here.
Don_Pachuco said:
I would have to say that in reading text, it is generally hard to understand the tone of the text. While I wasnt throwing a tantrum, the tone of your reply is pretty unmistakable. When someone comes here genuinely looking for help and assistance with a device, is it a general practice to publicly belittle and berate them? As to my bounty, I started off low to see if others would jump on board or not. As to my carrier, I have been with Verizon from day one, get a rather large corporate discount from them on devices and accessories, and have 6 lines through them, so why just to get this tablet to do what I want it to, would I change carriers? Every device that I have had in the smartphone era has been Verizon, and someone has found a way to unlock them. So I apologize if I came of looking like a prick, as that was not at all my intention. I would gladly personally pay up to $100.00 if someone could help. It is very frustrating to only be able to do half of what I want to achieve with my tablet. Im as far as I personally can go on it. If anyone was offended by my wording, again, I am sorry for that. BTW, I changed the avatar that was only taken offense to after my post. Have a happy Sunday Funday! I know I will as I am already on bloody Mary number 4 here.
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Your phrase that asks if you should put a bullet into your tablet certainly sounded like a bit of a tantrum. Sorry if I somehow misconstrued that. Then also sounding like you were belittling XDA developers because they did not unlock the bootloader yet.. Sounded a bit entitled. There are devices years old that have never been unlocked. I have done my best to explain why there should never be a time limit or expectations of the bootloader ever being unlocked yet you also shot that down as selfishly exclaiming you did not care about those examples and were only concerned about what matters to you. Did I leave anything out? Sorry if I somehow misinterpreted any of that. Sounds like you need to start making a decision as to what is more important to you, your corporate discount or an unlocked bootloader. Have your bounty but I already explained older Verizon devices with the same locked bootloaders has stumped the security geniuses so far.
$100
$100.00
$150.00?
The devs were never really all that involved with this tablet. It is highly unlikely they will unlock the Verizon version unless they figure out the other Samsung products. Even if they would unlock the tablet you my not get any devs that are willing to port their Roms over to the Verizon version.
Sent from my SM-P600 using Tapatalk
Ok, I give up
Don_Pachuco said:
Ok, I give up
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Say my friend..don't give up There are to many smart people at this forum... (and other forums) Trust me just have to be patient lol.. I am in the same boat some one will figure this out..
OK, I have a SM-P605v with a broken LCD (not the screen itself, but the display is discolored and not displaying correctly). It was previously Rooted and I have gotten screen emulators working when hooked up to my laptop. I would be willing to donate this to any Dev willing to work on the exploit. If there is a risk of bricking the device, then rest assured it's no biggie since the screen is bad on it. Please PM me if you are interested.
It's been a while now, anyone figure it out yet?....................................................
Has anyone tried the unlock script for the note 3 and note 4?
Here is the link to note 3.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/ver...l/official-note-3-verizon-bootloader-t3359370
I just got a SM-P605 that is unlocked. Once I figure out where the kernal came from perhaps I can be of help here. I really want to get this thing rooted and connected with my carrier. I had had a SM-P600, but it was smashed and could not be repaired. That's why I bought this tablet. Otherwise this P605 is totally stock and runs like a very well behaved powerhouse should.
Rob
i looked at this page it says u need root to use this .
Nappyloxs said:
Has anyone tried the unlock script for the note 3 and note 4?
Here is the link to note 3.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/ver...l/official-note-3-verizon-bootloader-t3359370
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but dont you need a unlocked bootloader to get root ?
No you don't need unlocked bootloader to root. I think I used towel root years ago to root this tablet.
Link200 said:
The devs were never really all that involved with this tablet. It is highly unlikely they will unlock the Verizon version unless they figure out the other Samsung products. Even if they would unlock the tablet you my not get any devs that are willing to port their Roms over to the Verizon version.
Sent from my SM-P600 using Tapatalk
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You know I really loved my SM-P600, but it was badly damaged and I don't know how or where to order in the left speaker, on/off switch from. So got really frustrated advanced ordered an SM-P605v instead and was able to get one that has an unlocked boatloader. I've not rooted it yet, or mounted TWRP on it. I may not root it though I'd like to. Even so, I'm looking into it and while, though I'm extremely happy with it,I may eventually root it.
I've explored a lot of options so far and none of them, so far, work for an SM-P605v running Android 5.1.1.
I'll get back with you about a week from now.
By the way, this tablet, and the SGN Pro are still much more powerful and capable than the Surface Pro or IPad Pro. This, even though they are getting a little older.
By the way,I spoke to a friend of mine who owns the large IPad Pro today. Apple hasn't optimised the Home screen yet, even after all these months. You'd think they'd have done better by their consumer base by now.
Even so, I'm so pleased with the Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1(2014), both with the SM-P600, and the SM-P605. Unless Samsung releases a Tab A that has an S Pen and 32 gigs memory, or releases a substantial upgrade to the SM-P600,SM-P605, and SM-P607, or puts out a new SGN in the series with 64 our 128gigs internal, I'm not open to trading my tablet in. It'll be over my cold, dead body.
This whole thing just died from no interest other than from me, huh?

Advice on purchase

HI all, I got a chance to hold the note 4 in the store, and have to say that I really liked the device. That being said, I'm interested in purchasing one, and am just trying to get any insights into the ability to flash stock android, and of course android 5.0 in the future. I just left having an att s5, for an m8 due to the bootloader unlock wait, so I'm aware that I may have to go tmobile or another route for quicker access.
Can anyone make an educated guess on when the note 4 (any lte version widely available in n.a. markets) would be rooted and bootloader unlocked?
Thanks in advance, I know this is a wide open question, but I really want to switch to something with a big battery and these specs with amoled, with L around the corner this thing is gonna rock!. It's a huge jump over the s5 just by holding it, im pretty stoked. The only reason I'm asking this is a matter of buy vs dont buy.
Cheers
-g
It was already done the day it was released.

Warning To Developer Edition Owner

With the arrival of a new "batch" of Developer Edition Note 4s delivered in the past couple days and the ones scheduled for delivery in the coming days, the opportunity for a proud owner of one of these devices to lock their bootloader inadvertedly is high. I know the following warnings/information can be found in a number of different threads, but you have to look for them to find them. So here's several do's and don'ts for new Developer Edition Note 4s:
WARNING: MAKE SURE REACTIVATION LOCK IS NOT SELECTED UNDER YOU SECURITY SETTINGS IF YOU PLAN ON INSTALLING TWRP AND ROOT!!!
1) Never take an OTA update from Verizon. Samsung has never updated the firmware on their Developer Edition devices...never. The chance that Samsung will change their policy for the Note 4 is slim to none. Taking an OTA update will most likely lock your bootloader. Yes, if you have TWRP installed and rooted the update should fail if it automatically downloads and tries to self-install. The point is, when notified that there is a OTA update, don't take it.
2) Never flash a firmware file unless you know it has been approved and tested for the Developer Edition. Finding firmware for the Retail version of the Note is easy, finding firmware for the Developer Edition is, at this point in time, impossible. If you flash Retail firmware on your Developer Edition you will lock your bootloader.
3) There is only one ROM available and safe to flash for the Verizon Note 4 Developer Edition...one. That ROM can be found in the Android Development Section below. Flashing a ROM developed for a different carriers device usually produces less than desired results, don't do it.
4) Security Policy updates from the Play Store are safe to install if you want to, but are not necessary. Security updates from Verizon should be avoided.
I hope this helps some new Developer Edition users avoid a costly mistake. We already know of two Note 4 Developer Edition owners that have flashed Retail firmware and now have an expensive Retail model of the Note 4.
jpcalhoun said:
With the arrival of a new "batch" of Developer Edition Note 4s delivered in the past couple days and the ones scheduled for delivery in the coming days, the opportunity for a proud owner of one of these devices to lock their bootloader inadvertedly is high. I know the following warnings/information can be found in a number of different threads, but you have to look for them to find them. So here's several do's and don'ts for new Developer Edition Note 4s:
1) Never take an OTA update from Verizon. Samsung has never updated the firmware on their Developer Edition devices...never. The chance that Samsung will change their policy for the Note 4 is slim to none. Taking an OTA update will most likely lock your bootloader. Yes, if you have TWRP installed and rooted the update should fail if it automatically downloads and tries to self-install. The point is, when notified that there is a OTA update, don't take it.
2) Never flash a firmware file unless you know it has been approved and tested for the Developer Edition. Finding firmware for the Retail version of the Note is easy, finding firmware for the Developer Edition is, at this point in time, impossible. If you flash Retail firmware on your Developer Edition you will lock your bootloader.
3) There is only one ROM available and safe to flash for the Verizon Note 4 Developer Edition...one. That ROM can be found in the Android Development Section below. Flashing a ROM developed for a different carriers device usually produces less than desired results, don't do it.
4) Security Policy updates from the Play Store are safe to install if you want to, but are not necessary. Security updates from Verizon should be avoided.
I hope this helps some new Developer Edition users avoid a costly mistake. We already know of two Note 4 Developer Edition owners that have flashed Retail firmware and now have an expensive Retail model of the Note 4.
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Good advice...although I would have hoped that people buying a DE would know better.
Slight update to point 3...FireKAT is coming to VZW. The developer is rebasing it for VZW and said it would be available by the end of the weekend. Be sure to thank and/or donate to him if anyone uses it as he may be our best path to Lollipop when it comes out for the Note 4.
I've heard good things about FireKat, can't wait to try it.
Is there a thread somewhere to monitor FireKAT to Verizon progress?
What is even the point of the dev edition then for the average XDA'er? Having an unlocked bootloaders main benefit is the ability to flash other custom roms. However, most phones with locked bootloaders usually use safestrap, but since the amount of people who own the dev edition is relatively small, it doesn't seem that beneficial. I debated for a long time getting a note 3 DE but decided against it. It seemed overall that it was a hassle and I refrained. The only reason I bought the N4 is simply I had an upgrade available and if I didn't, probably would have passed on that too. This way I can keep rotating my 4 lines, 1 with ULD, to get 2 upgrades per year?
Romans8vs1 said:
Is there a thread somewhere to monitor FireKAT to Verizon progress?
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There are periodic references to it in the TMO N4 dev thread and I exchanged a couple of PMs with the dev related to another topic but it came up ...it will happen, we just need to be patient.
Update: FireKat should be available in a couple days per the dev. When it drops be sure to support him if you flash it.
kimdoocheol said:
What is even the point of the dev edition then for the average XDA'er? Having an unlocked bootloaders main benefit is the ability to flash other custom roms. However, most phones with locked bootloaders usually use safestrap, but since the amount of people who own the dev edition is relatively small, it doesn't seem that beneficial. I debated for a long time getting a note 3 DE but decided against it. It seemed overall that it was a hassle and I refrained. The only reason I bought the N4 is simply I had an upgrade available and if I didn't, probably would have passed on that too. This way I can keep rotating my 4 lines, 1 with ULD, to get 2 upgrades per year?
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Yes, there aren't many (only one right now) ROMs available for the Note 4 Developer Edition. But, there are plenty of apps that require root that enable the user to customize, improve performance, improve battery life and perform functions that you can't do on a retail version. That is the primary reason I choose a Developer Edition. Another factor is the fact that I hate SafeStrap. So, if I was interested in flashing customized ROMs I don't want to do it with SafeStrap (that's assuming they ever get root for the retail version and if a version of SafeStrap comes available). Life is full of choices, you made yours and I made mine for different reasons. It's all good.
jpcalhoun said:
Yes, there aren't many (only one right now) ROMs available for the Note 4 Developer Edition. But, there are plenty of apps that require root that enable the user to customize, improve performance, improve battery life and perform functions that you can't do on a retail version. That is the primary reason I choose a Developer Edition. Another factor is the fact that I hate SafeStrap. So, if I was interested in flashing customized ROMs I don't want to do it with SafeStrap (that's assuming they ever get root for the retail version and if a version of SafeStrap comes available). Life is full of choices, you made yours and I made mine for different reasons. It's all good.
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If root is ever achieved, many of the things mentioned can be done too.
But yeah, I never really liked SS either, just saying that it is an option, but my main point I guess is that the DE sort of splits the community a bit. Many people don't want to lose their UDP so buy unsubsidized anyways so the DE isn't a bad option. However, it just seems like these kind of things cause a lack of dev on one side or the other which is bad for the N4 community as a whole. That's what I was really getting at.
Yeah, I just bought an N4 actually though and am sort of let down this time coming from my N2. MW and the S-Pen I never really utilized with the N2 since I switched to an AOSP based rom as soon as they became available, but halo and floating window were nice too.
The only three features that really stand out to me are the camera, the display, and the fingerprint scanner.
kimdoocheol said:
If root is ever achieved, many of the things mentioned can be done too.
But yeah, I never really liked SS either, just saying that it is an option, but my main point I guess is that the DE sort of splits the community a bit. Many people don't want to lose their UDP so buy unsubsidized anyways so the DE isn't a bad option. However, it just seems like these kind of things cause a lack of dev on one side or the other which is bad for the N4 community as a whole. That's what I was really getting at.
Yeah, I just bought an N4 actually though and am sort of let down this time coming from my N2. MW and the S-Pen I never really utilized with the N2 since I switched to an AOSP based rom as soon as they became available, but halo and floating window were nice too.
The only three features that really stand out to me are the camera, the display, and the fingerprint scanner.
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You are correct, if root is achieved many of the things I pointed out can be achieved. I also agree that two different versions of one phone can split the community. But in today's environment, it is getting harder and harder to even get root much less unlock bootloaders or get a version of SafeSTrap that will work. If that remains the status quo then I'm glad the development community at least has the Developer Edition to work on. I'm not a crack flasher but I do like the ability to run the five or six apps that I like that require root and have the option to flash a custom ROM if I want. Plus, I really like the ability to create my own debloated ROM by getting rid of all the Verizon, Samsung and even some of the Google crap they put on our phones. I can cut the size of the stock ROM by almost 50% by debloating and have all the functionality I want or use. It makes a noticeable difference in the speed and smoothness of the phone's functions and battery life. I guess I just hate to be like the iPhone community that is locked into what ever Apple thinks we need or want, LOL. But, that "freedom" is getting harder and harder to come by.
Thanks for the heads up op.
Sent from my SM-N910V using XDA Free mobile app
jpcalhoun said:
You are correct, if root is achieved many of the things I pointed out can be achieved. I also agree that two different versions of one phone can split the community. But in today's environment, it is getting harder and harder to even get root much less unlock bootloaders or get a version of SafeSTrap that will work. If that remains the status quo then I'm glad the development community at least has the Developer Edition to work on. I'm not a crack flasher but I do like the ability to run the five or six apps that I like that require root and have the option to flash a custom ROM if I want. Plus, I really like the ability to create my own debloated ROM by getting rid of all the Verizon, Samsung and even some of the Google crap they put on our phones. I can cut the size of the stock ROM by almost 50% by debloating and have all the functionality I want or use. It makes a noticeable difference in the speed and smoothness of the phone's functions and battery life. I guess I just hate to be like the iPhone community that is locked into what ever Apple thinks we need or want, LOL. But, that "freedom" is getting harder and harder to come by.
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I'm in a similar boat myself, but the thing is I have 5 lines I can manipulate my upgrades with so buying subsidized is more of a benefit for me with all the current workarounds than shelling out 700. When I was going to get the N3, I xfer my upgrade and sold my note 3 retail to get the DE, but decided last minute not to do it. For some reason, the aesthetics of the N3 did not seem that appealing but the N4 is beautiful.
But yeah, I just think it is a sad state we are stuck in with VZW. The service is good, but the company is definitely somewhat crooked and incompetent. I had TMob, AT&T before, but the service and speeds never compared to what I got in my area with VZW. That's why I really want the N6 if there is an unlocked bootloader, as an added bonus the phones all seem to be the same SKU which means the user base and dev base will be huge.
And yes, 100% agree, not even having root now is very unappealing for no TiBU, and quite a few other apps I constantly use that require root, Repetitouch for example, bunch of xposed mods, and no custom DPI. I seriously cannot even think about using Chrome without adjustable DPI or the ability to block permissions.
Agreed again, iDevices main downfall is they didn't license out their OS. I don't have the numbers, but I know SS captured a big amount of their market, but if you add in the other Android phones I don't think iOS even comes close. Which was the only reason I ever had an iDevice, but I really missed the level of customization and that was coming from the OG Droid, haha.
So right now I am sort of stuck in this spot, either keep the N4, return it for an N6 when it comes to VZW or sell the N4 and get the device from the play store. From what i've played around with, the camera, display, and the fingerprint scanner make it a hard decision. Also I am so used to soft keys rather than capacitive buttons, feel like that eats up a lot of screen real estate. But I am pretty sure I am going to get the N6 and move away from SS, which is quite sad because I like their peripherals and overall devices.
To be honest I don't know why everyone is so eager to jump ship to the Developer Edition note 4 when there is absolutely no development going on right now for it.
The vast majority of Galaxy Note 4 users are retail. Unless a vast majority of Developer Edition Phones are bought by the public I just don't know how there will be development for the device since there is no popularity. (ie no audience to develop for)
I mean sure.... you get root. You can debloat a little here and there but what matters most is getting your favorite rom that you want ported to your device.
Other than that. Developer edition doesn't look like a hoot right now, imo =/
kimdoocheol said:
I'm in a similar boat myself, but the thing is I have 5 lines I can manipulate my upgrades with so buying subsidized is more of a benefit for me with all the current workarounds than shelling out 700. When I was going to get the N3, I xfer my upgrade and sold my note 3 retail to get the DE, but decided last minute not to do it. For some reason, the aesthetics of the N3 did not seem that appealing but the N4 is beautiful.
But yeah, I just think it is a sad state we are stuck in with VZW. The service is good, but the company is definitely somewhat crooked and incompetent. I had TMob, AT&T before, but the service and speeds never compared to what I got in my area with VZW. That's why I really want the N6 if there is an unlocked bootloader, as an added bonus the phones all seem to be the same SKU which means the user base and dev base will be huge.
And yes, 100% agree, not even having root now is very unappealing for no TiBU, and quite a few other apps I constantly use that require root, Repetitouch for example, bunch of xposed mods, and no custom DPI. I seriously cannot even think about using Chrome without adjustable DPI or the ability to block permissions.
Agreed again, iDevices main downfall is they didn't license out their OS. I don't have the numbers, but I know SS captured a big amount of their market, but if you add in the other Android phones I don't think iOS even comes close. Which was the only reason I ever had an iDevice, but I really missed the level of customization and that was coming from the OG Droid, haha.
So right now I am sort of stuck in this spot, either keep the N4, return it for an N6 when it comes to VZW or sell the N4 and get the device from the play store. From what i've played around with, the camera, display, and the fingerprint scanner make it a hard decision. Also I am so used to soft keys rather than capacitive buttons, feel like that eats up a lot of screen real estate. But I am pretty sure I am going to get the N6 and move away from SS, which is quite sad because I like their peripherals and overall devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can appreciate your position. Hey, the N6 is a great phone, go for it.
MiuKing said:
To be honest I don't know why everyone is so eager to jump ship to the Developer Edition note 4 when there is absolutely no development going on right now for it.
The vast majority of Galaxy Note 4 users are retail. Unless a vast majority of Developer Edition Phones are bought by the public I just don't know how there will be development for the device since there is no popularity. (ie no audience to develop for)
I mean sure.... you get root. You can debloat a little here and there but what matters most is getting your favorite rom that you want ported to your device.
Other than that. Developer edition doesn't look like a hoot right now, imo =/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you dont know that. tmobile kernels work fine. and as far as firekat coming it will be here tomorrow or later this week i have talked to dev about it already.
also stock rom debloated with tweaks and a kernel you dont need much more right now honestly. and i can tell you this GOOD LUCK with rooting the retail and you will NEVER get an unlocked bootloader
jpcalhoun said:
You are correct, if root is achieved many of the things I pointed out can be achieved. I also agree that two different versions of one phone can split the community. But in today's environment, it is getting harder and harder to even get root much less unlock bootloaders or get a version of SafeSTrap that will work. If that remains the status quo then I'm glad the development community at least has the Developer Edition to work on. I'm not a crack flasher but I do like the ability to run the five or six apps that I like that require root and have the option to flash a custom ROM if I want. Plus, I really like the ability to create my own debloated ROM by getting rid of all the Verizon, Samsung and even some of the Google crap they put on our phones. I can cut the size of the stock ROM by almost 50% by debloating and have all the functionality I want or use. It makes a noticeable difference in the speed and smoothness of the phone's functions and battery life. I guess I just hate to be like the iPhone community that is locked into what ever Apple thinks we need or want, LOL. But, that "freedom" is getting harder and harder to come by.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
jpcalhoun said:
I can appreciate your position. Hey, the N6 is a great phone, go for it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hard to find... Really, hard to find.
It sort of pains me to jump boat though, as i've always had Samsung since a few years ago. Never really had TW on there for that long
And I can appreciate your sentiments too because a lot of the reasons you mentioned are some of the reasons I want to stick with the N4. There are way too many variables now in picking a phone IMO.
MiuKing said:
To be honest I don't know why everyone is so eager to jump ship to the Developer Edition note 4 when there is absolutely no development going on right now for it.
The vast majority of Galaxy Note 4 users are retail. Unless a vast majority of Developer Edition Phones are bought by the public I just don't know how there will be development for the device since there is no popularity. (ie no audience to develop for)
I mean sure.... you get root. You can debloat a little here and there but what matters most is getting your favorite rom that you want ported to your device.
Other than that. Developer edition doesn't look like a hoot right now, imo =/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm on my 3rd rooted device and yet to install a custom rom. I simply want root access, and the ability to have my phone be MINE! I don't want BS apps on my phone. I don't want the factory browser to have locked bookmarks. I don't want a camera telling me I can't use flash when I'm at 12% battery life.
kimdoocheol said:
If root is ever achieved, many of the things mentioned can be done too.
But yeah, I never really liked SS either, just saying that it is an option, but my main point I guess is that the DE sort of splits the community a bit. Many people don't want to lose their UDP so buy unsubsidized anyways so the DE isn't a bad option. However, it just seems like these kind of things cause a lack of dev on one side or the other which is bad for the N4 community as a whole. That's what I was really getting at.
Yeah, I just bought an N4 actually though and am sort of let down this time coming from my N2. MW and the S-Pen I never really utilized with the N2 since I switched to an AOSP based rom as soon as they became available, but halo and floating window were nice too.
The only three features that really stand out to me are the camera, the display, and the fingerprint scanner.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi,
Besides the 3 things you found better than the N2, what about cell and wifi reception, is it better when compared to the N2?
Thank you,
Bryan
trapperjohn said:
Hi,
Besides the 3 things you found better than the N2, what about cell and wifi reception, is it better when compared to the N2?
Thank you,
Bryan
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cell reception is definitely better John.
WiFi is the same. I've never had a bad experience with WiFi.
My N2 for some reason lately was capped at around 80kb/s-100kb/s and I can't seem to get much higher than that. When I first got the phone it was 300+ almost all the time, but that could be because LTE wasn't as big back then or the updates they have done henceforht.
EDIT: When I say better, I mean a lot better. I sit in the same spot at my desk and with my N2 I was always constantly having to stand up to send a text or make a call. This phone I can do it practically while laying on the ground. So reception has improved drastically for me.
MiuKing said:
To be honest I don't know why everyone is so eager to jump ship to the Developer Edition note 4 when there is absolutely no development going on right now for it.
The vast majority of Galaxy Note 4 users are retail. Unless a vast majority of Developer Edition Phones are bought by the public I just don't know how there will be development for the device since there is no popularity. (ie no audience to develop for)
I mean sure.... you get root. You can debloat a little here and there but what matters most is getting your favorite rom that you want ported to your device.
Other than that. Developer edition doesn't look like a hoot right now, imo =/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dude you miss the whole point of a DE Note 4, FREEDOM!!!!
I had a retail Note 4 before I got he DE. With the retail I felt trap, almost choking to a point. I couldn't immerse my self with it, and NOT HAVING Viper4Android was a NO NO. You have to hear the Note 4 with V4A with a pair of Sony MDR-1RTBT MK2. Coming from flashing almost a ROM per week on my note 3 and ending up with stock debloated TW version didn't feel bad at all and this where I'm at with the N4. I'm about to Flash AMSPilot debloated now and so far I'm good until FireKat.
Poloasis said:
Dude you miss the whole point of a DE Note 4, FREEDOM!!!!
I had a retail Note 4 before I got he DE. With the retail I felt trap, almost choking to a point. I couldn't immerse my self with it, and NOT HAVING Viper4Android was a NO NO. You have to hear the Note 4 with V4A with a pair of Sony MDR-1RTBT MK2. Coming from flashing almost a ROM per week on my note 3 and ending up with stock debloated TW version didn't feel bad at all and this where I'm at with the N4. I'm about to Flash AMSPilot debloated now and so far I'm good until FireKat.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think you misunderstood what i meant.
http://media.giphy.com/media/fFwOzwhCO1FMA/giphy.gif

How open is this?

I'm a sprint user and I'm torn between getting this and the HTC U11.
I'm concerned about the openness of the device and how supportive it is to a proprietary carrier like Sprint. I've read around but it's month old information so I just wanna make sure:
Is it true that due to the phone's poor sales, there are very little developers?
Being a sprint user, do I have to worry about my own firmware/OS/ROMs/whatever, or can I just flash something like Lineage or Slim and be completely fine across all variants?
As well, is the signal/gps/etc safe if I do a complete OS change like stock to Lineage?
There's a lot of information about stock firmware and open bootloader, there's articles saying that they're currently public but around here I see that they "have yet to be released". Does the lack of awareness have to do with lack of devs or am I missing something?
Sorry if it's questions asked a ton of times but I just want to make sure I have up to date information before I commit to anything, I'm unfortunately a little paranoid. I love the open source community, so I wanna make sure I can utilize it with a pure android experience in even a locked down carrier like sprint. Thanks for the help.
Fivavoa said:
I'm a sprint user and I'm torn between getting this and the HTC U11.
I'm concerned about the openness of the device and how supportive it is to a proprietary carrier like Sprint. I've read around but it's month old information so I just wanna make sure:
Is it true that due to the phone's poor sales, there are very little developers?
Being a sprint user, do I have to worry about my own firmware/OS/ROMs/whatever, or can I just flash something like Lineage or Slim and be completely fine across all variants?
As well, is the signal/gps/etc safe if I do a complete OS change like stock to Lineage?
There's a lot of information about stock firmware and open bootloader, there's articles saying that they're currently public but around here I see that they "have yet to be released". Does the lack of awareness have to do with lack of devs or am I missing something?
Sorry if it's questions asked a ton of times but I just want to make sure I have up to date information before I commit to anything, I'm unfortunately a little paranoid. I love the open source community, so I wanna make sure I can utilize it with a pure android experience in even a locked down carrier like sprint. Thanks for the help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're a little late to the party. You just missed an awesome deal on the phone through Sprint. Today they changed the deal, however if you intend to remain a Sprint customer for the next 18 months, the deal can still be good for you.
Since nobody else has replied so far, and I've been living on XDA ever since I ordered my first Essential, I'll try to answer your questions (plus I don't have anything else to do right now).
"Supportive to a proprietary carrier like Sprint"? Not sure exactly what you mean, it works well on Sprint but it's not a Sprint-only device if/once it's unlocked.
I believe the lack of development is due to the phone being a new phone from an entirely new company combined with a relatively small following at this time. Plus the marketing isn't very good. I've been looking for a phone exactly like this for months and I hadn't heard about until a week ago when I was doing a Google search for new and interesting phones for the 15th time. Also, invisiblek is currently working on Lineage for the phone, and I hear he's really good at what he does.
Why would you have to worry about your own firmware/OS/ROM? My phone, on Sprint, already got two OTA updates. I hear the unlocked ones get updates faster. Once ROMs are available, they should work on Sprint and non-Sprint phones just the same. From what I've read, the hardware is all the same.
Signal/GPS/etc will depend on how good the ROM is, just like any other phone.
Also not sure what you mean about the experience you'll have with a locked down carrier like Sprint. My phone (from Sprint) has stock android with zero bloatware. Well, I take that back, it automatically downloaded one Sprint app when I got home, but I immediately deleted it and it let me. Sprint phones have an unlockable bootloader just like non-Sprint phones. I wouldn't have gotten a Sprint version otherwise. I don't see how anything from Sprint will stop you (and me) from having the same experience I've had on my Moto X2 Pure Edition, which was notorious for having a 99% stock Android experience and an unlockable bootloader out of the box. If anything, the Essential has an even more pure Android experience because my Moto had it's special Moto Actions and the apps that went with them. Though I REALLY wish the Essential had the Moto Actions... I'd be in heaven then.
Maybe I'm looking at it differently because every phone I've ever had has been open and unlocked for development and I don't know what it's like to not be able to root or flash a custom recovery and a new ROM. But If that's what you're worried about, dive in.
Thanks for responding, I'll try to elaborate further:
DrvLikHell said:
"Supportive to a proprietary carrier like Sprint"? Not sure exactly what you mean, it works well on Sprint but it's not a Sprint-only device if/once it's unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a family member who was with sprint for longer than I was, and when I went to look into the development of his phone, they usually separated development of every other phone and sprint's phone. Where the non-sprint alternative got a lot of development, the sprint version stayed pretty inactive. I'm just verifying that it's not the same with the Essential.
DrvLikHell said:
Why would you have to worry about your own firmware/OS/ROM? My phone, on Sprint, already got two OTA updates. I hear the unlocked ones get updates faster. Once ROMs are available, they should work on Sprint and non-Sprint phones just the same. From what I've read, the hardware is all the same.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes that's one aspect I was rather confused about, from the reason stated above and other examples I've ran into the past, some carriers lock down their devices and I didn't know if Sprint was the same. It's good to know if I "unlock" the device then I get similar treatment despite being on Sprint. I don't wanna feel left out because I chose a carrier that holds me back y'know?
DrvLikHell said:
Also not sure what you mean about the experience you'll have with a locked down carrier like Sprint. My phone (from Sprint) has stock android with zero bloatware. Well, I take that back, it automatically downloaded one Sprint app when I got home, but I immediately deleted it and it let me. Sprint phones have an unlockable bootloader just like non-Sprint phones. I wouldn't have gotten a Sprint version otherwise.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hope I'm not starting to sound redundant but again, but I had a few bad experiences with other carriers who lock down their devices for everything even though it's rather open otherwise. I'm just making sure haha
Thanks for the info.
This phone is what most developers have been pushing for... good hardware, a progressive company and an unlocked bootloader! I would hope that the developers jump on this phone. If not we may never have the opportunity again. IMHO
Fivavoa said:
Thanks for responding, I'll try to elaborate further:
I have a family member who was with sprint for longer than I was, and when I went to look into the development of his phone, they usually separated development of every other phone and sprint's phone. Where the non-sprint alternative got a lot of development, the sprint version stayed pretty inactive. I'm just verifying that it's not the same with the Essential.
Yes that's one aspect I was rather confused about, from the reason stated above and other examples I've ran into the past, some carriers lock down their devices and I didn't know if Sprint was the same. It's good to know if I "unlock" the device then I get similar treatment despite being on Sprint. I don't wanna feel left out because I chose a carrier that holds me back y'know?
I hope I'm not starting to sound redundant but again, but I had a few bad experiences with other carriers who lock down their devices for everything even though it's rather open otherwise. I'm just making sure haha
Thanks for the info.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, I get where you're coming from now. Like when I was into the Samsung Galaxy S3. Each phone from ATT, TMO, VZW and Sprint had different configurations, different roms and different bootloaders. The VZW S3 bootloader is still not unlockable and is stuck at Android 4.4.2, while the TMO S3 has Android 7.1 via Lineage available for it.
In that respect, the Sprint version of the Essential will have the same developer support that the unlocked version will have. All the bootloaders are the same and are equally unlockable because all the phones are the same. If I remember right, there are a couple labels somewhere in the phone that differ, but that's all. There is just one phone to rule them all, and this is it.

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