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I just got my hands on one, great phone, best I've ever had.
I got offered a job out of the country and will probably be moving to Brazil soon, did anyone have any luck unlocking this phone yet? I know the phone is both GSM and CDMA, and it also has a SIM card slot, I haven't tried just putting another SIM card on it yet. It might be a little too soon since I think the sprint variant just came out, but thought I'd ask.
Thank you
Don't worry, it is already unlocked for any gsm carrier. I use it in Asia with local sim card without any problems.
Melodycd said:
Don't worry, it is already unlocked for any gsm carrier. I use it in Asia with local sim card without any problems.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Apologies for digging this back up, but I have just arrived in Brazil, what setting did you use for it to recognize the SIM card? I put it in and it definitely does not ask me for a SIM unlock code, and sprints manual for it says that it isn't SIM locked. Again, apologies, it's just that the G2 is just sitting here for now.
Edit: Ah I just realized you have the Verizon variant of the phone, mine is the Sprint one The Verizon is indeed unlocked out of the box. I'd like to know about the Sprint one.
Also have a sprint ls980 and is locked
Call sprint to unlock it for you over the phone?
Last year I called sprint first before international travel, then I was given some instructions (thanks the representative) to open the service menu in the phone (moto photon) and made some changes to it.
After landed in China I bought a sim card and got the phone up to a GSM network. It took me some more time to find out and set APN settings correctly to enable data connection. Store guys there were smart looking but seemed not familiar with adopting sprint phones.
Later I even spared some time to download local CDMA radio firmware and flashed it to the phone, and finally was able to use the phone on CDMA network there. I had to flash the photon back to sprint radio once landed in LA.
Hathoid said:
Apologies for digging this back up, but I have just arrived in Brazil, what setting did you use for it to recognize the SIM card? I put it in and it definitely does not ask me for a SIM unlock code, and sprints manual for it says that it isn't SIM locked. Again, apologies, it's just that the G2 is just sitting here for now.
Edit: Ah I just realized you have the Verizon variant of the phone, mine is the Sprint one The Verizon is indeed unlocked out of the box. I'd like to know about the Sprint one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
harmonyxda said:
Call sprint to unlock it for you over the phone?
Last year I called sprint first before international travel, then I was given some instructions (thanks the representative) to open the service menu in the phone (moto photon) and made some changes to it.
After landed in China I bought a sim card and got the phone up to a GSM network. It took me some more time to find out and set APN settings correctly to enable data connection. Store guys there were smart looking but seemed not familiar with adopting sprint phones.
Later I even spared some time to download local CDMA radio firmware and flashed it to the phone, and finally was able to use the phone on CDMA network there. I had to flash the photon back to sprint radio once landed in LA.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately I'm not a sprint customer, I was given this as a gift by someone who didn't know about the whole carrier locking dilemma. Most of the other GSM-able sprint phones have been unlocked by users also, and on the other hand, on new phones, it takes sprint quite some time to figure out how to unlock it themselves, at least from what I've been reading.
Hathoid said:
Unfortunately I'm not a sprint customer, I was given this as a gift by someone who didn't know about the whole carrier locking dilemma. Most of the other GSM-able sprint phones have been unlocked by users also, and on the other hand, on new phones, it takes sprint quite some time to figure out how to unlock it themselves, at least from what I've been reading.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are some 'SIM unlock' LG G2 posts like this:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2455956
I never tried/tested it tough.
harmonyxda said:
There are some 'SIM unlock' LG G2 posts like this:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2455956
I never tried/tested it tough.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
These unfortunately don't work as with sprint there isn't an unlock code to even put in when you put another SIM card on the phone.
Dammit! I've ordered few LG G2 Sprint, for use with GSM services overseas, but now I see that I'm in trouble cause of that Sprint's lock!!
Is there any solution???
Ramonsterator said:
Dammit! I've ordered few LG G2 Sprint, for use with GSM services overseas, but now I see that I'm in trouble cause of that Sprint's lock!!
Is there any solution???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As of now I don't think there is a solution, I have not heard of anyone who's actually gotten it unlocked yet, not even from sprint, I think we'll have to wait a while before we see any unlocking business.
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?
ROOTING Aquos Crystal 306SH:
This thread is for 306SH ONLY.
Please DO NOT post 305SH information.
305SH has different programming & will confuse people.
Several people are working on rooting 306SH but without help from experts like Chainfire or Cyanogen (or a change of attitude from Sharp),
306SH may not be rooted until we have flying solar-powered cars.
1/28/2015 note to person who keeps posting root info (likely fake) and asking for money in advance:
You keep posting, we'll keep deleting your posts and may BAN you from XDA !
2/14/2015 UPDATE: The BEST thing I can say about the 306SH I formerly owned, is that I sold it on eBay 3 days ago for $139 ! It was in 100% flawless condition. Sorry people, I gave up trying to get ANYONE at Sharp to provide any help in rooting this phone. On the flip side, My Sony Smartwatch 3 has already updated itself to Lollipop 5.01 and Sony is expected to release it for my Z2 in the next 30 to 45 days. Some manufacturers know how to treat their customers and win more customers (unlike Sharp).
Sharp Aquos Crystal is an amazing phone for only $150 US.
However, it needs a way to unlock it's true potential and a way to install updates without bloatware.
You CAN switch from Boost Mobile to Ting in less than 10 minutes & save LOTS of money!
Ting uses the same Sprint network so service (signal strength) will NOT change by moving to Ting.
Switching to Ting is fast & as easy as it gets. Only $6.00/month if you NEVER use the phone.
I'm now using mine as my emergency backup so unless I need to use it, I'm only paying $6/month ($6.89 including taxes).
All you need is:
1. Your IMEI # < Can also be found on bottom of Boost Mobile package
2. ISID # < On bottom of Boost Mobile package
3. Credit card < Ting bills at END of each month, not prepay like other no-contract services
4. Bring your own number (port in) or let Ting choose a number for you from ANYWHERE in the USA
(choose an address in any city & state, it offers appropriate area codes + number).
NO SIM card is required.
Ting can also be used internationally on some GSM networks. INSTRUCTIONS
Note: Switching to Ting does not change or remove the Boost Mobile 4G boot animation.
WARNING: Ting has a bug in their billing system and even though your phone/text/data usage may be ZERO, they may try to bill you for usage. This has happened to me repeatedly so if you switch to Ting, be prepared to watch your monthly bills for errors.
Here's what else I've accomplished & learned using the 306SH since October 16, 2014:
Thought I had root using Kingo but it wasn't because SuperSU is not working & Root Checker app says we do not have root.
I was tricked by Kingo. Per feedback from Kingo, they are "working on it."
This means that many apps requiring root will not work at this time BUT may install and seem like they are working perfectly.
Here are step by step instructions of what I did which lead me to believe we had REAL and FULL root:
Note: You may see different results if you have or do ANYTHING differently than I did.
I will not be responsible for any damage (bricking) to your phone or respond to messages as such, so proceed at your own risk.
All of this applies ONLY to Sharp 306SH on Boost Mobile.
I do not have a 305SH and there may be undiscovered difference(s) on the Sprint or Virgin models.
1. I am running Windows 8.1 Pro 32bit with all updates.
2. I have Sharp Aquos Crystal connected to a USB 2.0 port.
3. I installed the stock Sharp USB drivers, specifically android_winusb.inf dated 8/25/2014.
4. I activated Developer mode by going Settings>About phone>press Build number until it says you are a developer
5. Go Settings>Developer Options>put checkmark in USB debugging.
6. Go to Kingo's latest version 1.2.6 download to download app named android_root.exe 18,018,600 bytes size.
7. Run android_root.exe while phone is connected via USB and USB debugging is ON (checked).
8. Kingo app should say that phone is connected. If not, you have a problem that I can not diagnose for you.
9. For the next several minutes it should repeatedly scroll "Downloading requisite dependency files ... Waiting for device ...".
10. Phone should reboot by itself. After it reboots install and try to run any apps that normally require root.
11. As of now, I have Root Explorer working. I can see and access ROM folders and files including system, but not Data folders.
I tested Titanium and it is NOT working. Root Checker says NO ROOT. Busy Box says problem may be related to SuperUser or SuperSU not having proper permissions.
This is ALL I know for now about rooting Boost Mobile 306SH . If/when I learn more, I will post it HERE.
UNLOCKING I spoke by phone with Boost Mobile on 10/24/2014 and was told that Boost will NOT provide unlock codes for ANY of their phones. Then I spoke with Sharp Support at 844-742-7751 and asked them. While speaking with Sharp, I also asked about unlocking the bootloader and when Sharp may be posting what developers need so we can create custom ROMS and possibly root this phone. I will post the response from Sharp to all these questions as quickly as I receive it/them.
Unlocking normally means you can use it on any other similar network. In this case, the 306SH is CDMA which means we would be restricted to Sprint, Boost, Virgin or any other CDMA network in the USA.
GSM Use. It might be possible for us to also use our 306SH phones with GSM networks such as Tmobile or AT&T in the USA. In Japan, the same Sharp phone is known as the 305SH and is set to work on GSM networks so, common sense says GSM use in USA might be possible if/when an XDA developer modifies the code for us..
HOW TO UNLOCK GSM phones (such as the 305SH)
1. You obtain unlock code from whomever sold you the phone and is currently providing service. From time you request the unlock code, it may be up to 2 or 3 days before you receive an email with that unlock code. When you request the unlock code, you will need to provide the IMEI code to your current service provider. WARNING: There are MANY scam artists (websites advertising unlock codes for a fee) and many of them will NEVER provide you with an unlock code that works.
2. You install a new SIM card from whatever new service provider you want to use. Example: If you obtained unlock code from Sprint and want to switch service to Virgin Mobile, you insert a Virgin Mobile SIM card.
3. Turn on the phone and it should go to the unlock screen.
4. Enter the unlock code.
I did this on my Tmobile Galaxy Note 3 at it worked perfectly.
NOVEMBER 24, 2014 UPDATE: NOBODY is even close to rooting the 306SH. Last night I even tried using Chinese VRoot V1.7.3 ... just another waste of time.
DECEMBER 6, 2014 UPDATE: I switched from Boost Mobile to Ting: On 10/14/2014 I tried to order my 306SH from boostmobile.com website because it included 1 month of FREE service (up to $50). Website was NOT working so I phoned my order and chose $35/month plan. I was supposed to received $35 credit within 14 days after 10/16/2014 activation. Boost failed to issue $35 credit as promised. 11/24/2014 I phoned 866-402-7366, spoke with Raine. She had to submit a special request to get my $35 credit.
Then I received a message saying thanks for paying Boost Mobile another $50 (which I did NOT do) ! Days later, I received a message from Boost saying that instead of refunding me $35 for month of service that should have been FREE, they would give it to me NEXT month. Sorry Boost, too many mistakes. I lost faith in "Worst" Mobile and switched to Ting which will also save me up to $348 a year!
FEBRUARY 2, 2015 UPDATE: I give up. Zero cooperation from Sharp and after 4 months, NOBODY has found a way to root this phone. In addition, Ting has continued billing me for service I did NOT use! Bottom Line: I just notified Ting to terminate my service and I am selling my 306SH on eBay. Winning bidder will get it in 100% perfect condition with all the unused accessories and paperwork. As I type this, I am reminded of Murphy's Law. The minute I sell this phone, it would not surprise me if some on this thread finds a way to root it! Good luck y'all !
Simple click of your "Thanks BUTTON" is ALWAYS appreciated so I know I'm not wasting your time or mine!
I do not accept, want or need any monetary donations from anyone.
I am here trying to help others because I believe "what goes around comes around."
Glenn
Since surviving through 4 defective original iPhones in a row, I've purchased, rooted & customized over a dozen Android phones and tablets.
The 306SH is least expensive smartphone I've ever owned & runs great. Sony Xperia Z2 is my daily use smartphone (better camera and root is available now),
If/when someone successfully roots 306SH, I will update this post.
That sounds like a good news.. but does unlock means you can use it w gsm network?
sounds good .
What unlocking means
cairui505 said:
sounds good .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes it does!
Glenn
There is no way to supply a depersonalization code.
Aquos crystal
Glenn , does this mean i can use a cdma sim card in india which uses the same frequency as the boost cdma does ?, just purchased one for use in india
HI Glenn,
I've tried it w. the sprint model and it doesn't do anything with tmobile sim. i saw a video on youtube where the guy put an att sim into the booster version and he was able to use the 3g and outgoing call but not incoming..
i have no way of validating his video but he was using boost service .
weltwon said:
According to one website quoting Sharp USA Sharp Aquos Crystal 306SH smartphones "can be officially unlocked after expiry of the 90-day contract." However, this was unclear based on the differences in contracts between Sprint, Boost Mobile and Virgin Mobile. I spoke by phone with BoostMobile on 10/24/2014 and was told that Boost will NOT provide unlock codes for ANY of their phones. Then I spoke with Sharp Support at 844-742-7751 and asked them. While speaking with Sharp, I also asked about unlocking the bootloader and when Sharp may be posting what developers need so we can create custom ROMS and possibly root this phone.
I will post the response from Sharp to all these questions as quickly as I receive it/them.
Unlocking normally means you can use it on any other similar network. In this case, the 306SH is CDMA which means we would be restricted to Sprint, Boost, Virgin or any other CDMA network in the USA.
GSM Use. It might be possible for us to also use our 306SH phones with GSM networks such as Tmobile or AT&T in the USA. In Japan, the same Sharp phone is known as the 305SH and is set to work on GSM networks so, common sense says GSM use in USA might be possible if/when an XDA developer modifies the code for us..
HOW TO UNLOCK GSM phones (such as the 305SH)
1. You obtain unlock code from whomever sold you the phone and is currently providing service. From time you request the unlock code, it may be up to 2 or 3 days before you receive an email with that unlock code. When you request the unlock code, you will need to provide the IMEI code to your current service provider. WARNING: There are MANY scam artists (websites advertising unlock codes for a fee) and many of them will NEVER provide you with an unlock code that works.
2. You install a new SIM card from whatever new service provider you want to use. Example: If you obtained unlock code from Sprint and want to switch service to Virgin Mobile, you insert a Virgin Mobile SIM card.
3. Turn on the phone and it should go to the unlock screen.
4. Enter the unlock code.
I did this on my Tmobile Galaxy Note 3 at it worked perfectly.
UNLOCKING THE SHARP 306SH which is CDMA:
Net10 website said that my 306SH is compatible so I invested $5 on a Net 10 BYOP Kit. I discovered that there is NO SIM card for CDMA in the kit! Instead, the kit provides instructions on how to switch from Boost to Net10. Then I discovered something I've not seen on ANY of my prior smartphones. I removed the BoostMobile SIM card from my 306SH and rebooted the phone. Without ANY SIM card I completed a phone call. However, instead of 4G LTE service was limited to 3G without the SIM card installed. When I reinsta;lled the SIM card, it went back to 4G service. Based on these experiences, I now believe that the BoostMobile 306SH may be already unlocked and switching to another carrier is simply a matter of reprogramming the phone with a Net10 activation kit or similar kit from another carrier that can service CDMA phones.
USING THIS CDMA PHONE ON GSM NETWORK. More research on the latest phones, GSM and CDMA technologies today now leads me to believe that we MIGHT be able to use the 306SH on EITHER the CDMA or GSM networks such as Tmobile or AT&T. Here's why....
Many of the 4G LTE carriers are using the same frequency band for CDMA and GSM
CDMA phones DO NOT require SIM cards BUT the latest batch of phones (including our Aquos Crystal) do have SIM card slots for the very purpose of being able to use them on GSM networks).
I installed an AT&T GSM Nano SIM card in my Sharp 306SH and it did not act like I had done anything bad. I did NOT activate the AT&T SIM card because I do not want to leave BoostMobile at this time nor pay for AT&T too.
OCTOBER 27, 2014 UPDATE: Just heard from Sharp about unlocking 306SH.
Sprint will commence offering unlocking in February 2015 and current policy is posted at http://www.sprint.com/legal/unlocking_policy.html
Sharp/Sprint is currently discussing unlock policies with Boost, Virgin and Alliance which may result in similar policy OR something different but has promised to announce final decisions no later than February 2015.
In the meantime, I advised Sharp of my own findings which indicate that the 306SH sold by Boost Mobile may already be unlocked and capable of GSM service. Sharp's response was no comment. It seems that the only way we all might find out is if one of us installs an AT&T or Tmobile SIM card into a 306SH and tries to activate it with one of the GSM carriers OR installs a SIM card from Virgin Mobile to activate their service. After I get my free month of service from Boost (part of the $149.95 promotion), I will try to switch from Boost to Tmobile because I believe Tmo has better coverage area (and currently offers similar prepaid plans).
If anyone finds anything to contradict this, PLEASE let me know so I can update this post.
I do not accept, want or need any monetary donations from anyone.
I am here trying to help others because I believe "what goes around comes around."
"Thanks" is ALWAYS appreciated so I know I'm not wasting your time or mine!
Glenn
He who dies with the most toys WINS!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
gsm partially works on aquos crystal
end user tech guy video on youtube says gsm works partially , need to verify
weltwon said:
According to one website quoting Sharp USA Sharp Aquos Crystal 306SH smartphones "can be officially unlocked after expiry of the 90-day contract." However, this was unclear based on the differences in contracts between Sprint, Boost Mobile and Virgin Mobile. I spoke by phone with BoostMobile on 10/24/2014 and was told that Boost will NOT provide unlock codes for ANY of their phones. Then I spoke with Sharp Support at 844-742-7751 and asked them. While speaking with Sharp, I also asked about unlocking the bootloader and when Sharp may be posting what developers need so we can create custom ROMS and possibly root this phone.
I will post the response from Sharp to all these questions as quickly as I receive it/them.
Unlocking normally means you can use it on any other similar network. In this case, the 306SH is CDMA which means we would be restricted to Sprint, Boost, Virgin or any other CDMA network in the USA.
GSM Use. It might be possible for us to also use our 306SH phones with GSM networks such as Tmobile or AT&T in the USA. In Japan, the same Sharp phone is known as the 305SH and is set to work on GSM networks so, common sense says GSM use in USA might be possible if/when an XDA developer modifies the code for us..
HOW TO UNLOCK GSM phones (such as the 305SH)
1. You obtain unlock code from whomever sold you the phone and is currently providing service. From time you request the unlock code, it may be up to 2 or 3 days before you receive an email with that unlock code. When you request the unlock code, you will need to provide the IMEI code to your current service provider. WARNING: There are MANY scam artists (websites advertising unlock codes for a fee) and many of them will NEVER provide you with an unlock code that works.
2. You install a new SIM card from whatever new service provider you want to use. Example: If you obtained unlock code from Sprint and want to switch service to Virgin Mobile, you insert a Virgin Mobile SIM card.
3. Turn on the phone and it should go to the unlock screen.
4. Enter the unlock code.
I did this on my Tmobile Galaxy Note 3 at it worked perfectly.
UNLOCKING THE SHARP 306SH which is CDMA:
Net10 website said that my 306SH is compatible so I invested $5 on a Net 10 BYOP Kit. I discovered that there is NO SIM card for CDMA in the kit! Instead, the kit provides instructions on how to switch from Boost to Net10. Then I discovered something I've not seen on ANY of my prior smartphones. I removed the BoostMobile SIM card from my 306SH and rebooted the phone. Without ANY SIM card I completed a phone call. However, instead of 4G LTE service was limited to 3G without the SIM card installed. When I reinsta;lled the SIM card, it went back to 4G service. Based on these experiences, I now believe that the BoostMobile 306SH may be already unlocked and switching to another carrier is simply a matter of reprogramming the phone with a Net10 activation kit or similar kit from another carrier that can service CDMA phones.
USING THIS CDMA PHONE ON GSM NETWORK. More research on the latest phones, GSM and CDMA technologies today now leads me to believe that we MIGHT be able to use the 306SH on EITHER the CDMA or GSM networks such as Tmobile or AT&T. Here's why....
Many of the 4G LTE carriers are using the same frequency band for CDMA and GSM
CDMA phones DO NOT require SIM cards BUT the latest batch of phones (including our Aquos Crystal) do have SIM card slots for the very purpose of being able to use them on GSM networks).
I installed an AT&T GSM Nano SIM card in my Sharp 306SH and it did not act like I had done anything bad. I did NOT activate the AT&T SIM card because I do not want to leave BoostMobile at this time nor pay for AT&T too.
OCTOBER 27, 2014 UPDATE: Just heard from Sharp about unlocking 306SH.
Sprint will commence offering unlocking in February 2015 and current policy is posted at http://www.sprint.com/legal/unlocking_policy.html
Sharp/Sprint is currently discussing unlock policies with Boost, Virgin and Alliance which may result in similar policy OR something different but has promised to announce final decisions no later than February 2015.
In the meantime, I advised Sharp of my own findings which indicate that the 306SH sold by Boost Mobile may already be unlocked and capable of GSM service. Sharp's response was no comment. It seems that the only way we all might find out is if one of us installs an AT&T or Tmobile SIM card into a 306SH and tries to activate it with one of the GSM carriers OR installs a SIM card from Virgin Mobile to activate their service. After I get my free month of service from Boost (part of the $149.95 promotion), I will try to switch from Boost to Tmobile because I believe Tmo has better coverage area (and currently offers similar prepaid plans).
If anyone finds anything to contradict this, PLEASE let me know so I can update this post.
I do not accept, want or need any monetary donations from anyone.
I am here trying to help others because I believe "what goes around comes around."
"Thanks" is ALWAYS appreciated so I know I'm not wasting your time or mine!
Glenn
He who dies with the most toys WINS!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
About :
HOW TO UNLOCK GSM phones (such as the 305SH)
1. You obtain unlock code from whomever sold you the phone and is currently providing service. From time you request the unlock code, it may be up to 2 or 3 days before you receive an email with that unlock code. When you request the unlock code, you will need to provide the IMEI code to your current service provider. WARNING: There are MANY scam artists (websites advertising unlock codes for a fee) and many of them will NEVER provide you with an unlock code that works.
2. You install a new SIM card from whatever new service provider you want to use. Example: If you obtained unlock code from Sprint and want to switch service to Virgin Mobile, you insert a Virgin Mobile SIM card.
3. Turn on the phone and it should go to the unlock screen.
4. Enter the unlock code.
I did this on my Tmobile Galaxy Note 3 at it worked perfectly.
I asked my seller, in Japan, for my 305SH, and according to his answer, SoftBank don't want to give unlock code yet.
Update to everyone
PEOPLE: I think the REAL problem here is that Sharp did NOT plan ahead and decide upon unlock terms with each carrier
BEFORE they started selling the 305SH and 306SH phones.
To clarify, 306SH from Boost Mobile (and likely Virgin and Sprint as well) works on 3G without any SIM card at all.
Take the SIM card out of your phone and see for yourself !
When I spoke with Sharp by phone today, the agent told me the SIM card is only there to store data, which basically confirms this too.
As far as use in India or anywhere else other than USA, someone from that country will have to provide 305SH or 306SH information because
I am not planning any trips outside USA any time soon.
Glenn
The sim card is only for the 4g service.
If you remove the Sim then the phone is restricted to 3g service of the same service provider.
If you add sim card of t mobile, at&t etc then the data which you are using if of boost mobile only.
The sim card slot is not reading anything from the Sim card.
Only thing which needs to be verified is whether the phone supports cdma service overseas or if it can be GSM unlocked.
Testing 305SH GSM in Japan
Could someone with the 305SH in Japan PLEASE remove your SIM card and let us know what happens.
Does it lose all signal or go to 3G?
Thanks,
Glenn
weltwon said:
Could someone with the 305SH in Japan PLEASE remove your SIM card and let us know what happens.
Does it lose all signal or go to 3G?
Thanks,
Glenn
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Without SIM Card:
- no 3G with 305SH. no data , nothing.
- we can see all network operators around but we can't connect : "unable to connect to this network at this time" if you try.
With SIM card (not Softbank) we didn't see network operators.
(sorry, I not in Japan)
GSM requires SIM card in 305SH
myspac said:
Without SIM Card:
- no 3G with 305SH. no data , nothing.
- we can see all network operators around but we can't connect : "unable to connect to this network at this time" if you try.
With SIM card (not Softbank) we didn't see network operators.
(sorry, I not in Japan)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. This tells me that when the Sharp Aquos Crystal 305SH is activated with a GSM carrier, SIM card is being used like any other GSM only phone. This still leaves me wondering if the 305SH with no SIM card could be activated on a CDMA carrier in Japan. If so, logic says reverse might be true with 306SH in USA.
Glenn
Quick question, does anybody know if I can purchase the Sprint Prepaid Sharp Aquos Crystal and just pop in my TMO sim and have full capabilities (phone, 4G, etc)? If it requires unlock, I suppose I can still get it unlocked after 90 days, right?
Sprint to Tmo
wip328 said:
Quick question, does anybody know if I can purchase the Sprint Prepaid Sharp Aquos Crystal and just pop in my TMO sim and have full capabilities (phone, 4G, etc)? If it requires unlock, I suppose I can still get it unlocked after 90 days, right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please read the first post in this thread. If/when anyone finds that we can do what you suggest, it will be posted there.
For now, your answer is NO.
Glenn
weltwon said:
UNLOCKING THE SHARP 306SH which is CDMA:
Net10 website said that my 306SH is compatible so I invested $5 on a Net 10 BYOP Kit. I discovered that there is NO SIM card for CDMA in the kit! Instead, the kit provides instructions on how to switch from Boost to Net10. Then I discovered something I've not seen on ANY of my prior smartphones. I removed the BoostMobile SIM card from my 306SH and rebooted the phone. Without ANY SIM card I completed a phone call. However, instead of 4G LTE service was limited to 3G without the SIM card installed. When I reinsta;lled the SIM card, it went back to 4G service. Based on these experiences, I now believe that the BoostMobile 306SH may be already unlocked and switching to another carrier is simply a matter of reprogramming the phone with a Net10 activation kit or similar kit from another carrier that can service CDMA phones.
USING THIS CDMA PHONE ON GSM NETWORK. More research on the latest phones, GSM and CDMA technologies today now leads me to believe that we MIGHT be able to use the 306SH on EITHER the CDMA or GSM networks such as Tmobile or AT&T. Here's why....
Many of the 4G LTE carriers are using the same frequency band for CDMA and GSM
CDMA phones DO NOT require SIM cards BUT the latest batch of phones (including our Aquos Crystal) do have SIM card slots for the very purpose of being able to use them on GSM networks).
I installed an AT&T GSM Nano SIM card in my Sharp 306SH and it did not act like I had done anything bad. I did NOT activate the AT&T SIM card because I do not want to leave BoostMobile at this time nor pay for AT&T too.
OCTOBER 27, 2014 UPDATE: Just heard from Sharp about unlocking 306SH.
Sprint will commence offering unlocking in February 2015 and current policy is posted at http://www.sprint.com/legal/unlocking_policy.html
Sharp/Sprint is currently discussing unlock policies with Boost, Virgin and Alliance which may result in similar policy OR something different but has promised to announce final decisions no later than February 2015.
In the meantime, I advised Sharp of my own findings which indicate that the 306SH sold by Boost Mobile may already be unlocked and capable of GSM service. Sharp's response was no comment. It seems that the only way we all might find out is if one of us installs an AT&T or Tmobile SIM card into a 306SH and tries to activate it with one of the GSM carriers OR installs a SIM card from Virgin Mobile to activate their service. After I get my free month of service from Boost (part of the $149.95 promotion), I will try to switch from Boost to Tmobile because I believe Tmo has better coverage area (and currently offers similar prepaid plans).
OCTOBER 28, 2014 UPDATE:
We CAN use our 306SH Boost/Sprint/Virgin phones with TING which charges based on actual usage for calls, texting and data. The fact that 306SH can ACTIVATE WITH TING is more evidence that 306SH might already be unlocked. Even if it isn't, Ting rates are lower than Sprint, Boost or Virgin if you use your smartphone sparingly. As I was just told during a chat with Ting they "buy access to their network [Sprint] at a wholesale level to provide service."
Aside from the posted usage TING RATES , there is a base monthly charge of $6.
If anyone finds anything to contradict this, PLEASE let me know so I can update this post.
I do not accept, want or need any monetary donations from anyone.
I am here trying to help others because I believe "what goes around comes around."
"Thanks" is ALWAYS appreciated so I know I'm not wasting your time or mine!
Glenn
He who dies with the most toys WINS!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am a cdma user in china
HERE IS MY opinion .when you take out the sim card it still work with 3G right? if it is. i am sure that they flash the numbers in the NV items and if you can get the spc code . you could use the cdma tools like DFS to check
i think it will shows" NV ONLY" but it is no help for unlock
The reason modern CDMA devices have a UICC SIM is for LTE service only. Unlike their GSM counterparts, the built-in IMEI/MEID/ESN of the device is what is registered with the provider. Until recently CDMA devices did not require SIMs because they didn't have LTE or the LTE UICC SIM was built-in (non-removable). Any CDMA device should work without its SIM for everything but LTE.
This device does seem to be unlocked within Sprint's networks. That doesn't mean it has a GSM radio or compatible with GSM LTE bands. For example, the Boost Moto G could be activated on Ting as well (basically unlocked for Sprint), the bootloader can be unlocked, be rooted, and flash any ROM to it, but AFAIK there is no way to get it on a GSM network - it doesn't even have a SIM card. The Nexus 5/6 are the only devices so far that are completely cross-compatible between CDMA, GSM, and their respective LTE networks.
If I am wrong, and the hardware is identical between the US and Japanese versions, we would still have to get root access first and flash a GSM ROM/radio to get any GSM carriers to work.
Ting definitely does work though and is an excellent inexpensive provider... the only downside is using Sprint's network, but if you are in a half-decent LTE area it is quite good.
Posted this in another thread too but here so more ppl see:
Today went out and bought Sharp Aquos Crystal on Boost with the $100 off deal when you bring your phone number to boost. Got the phone for $50 then took the phone and activated it on Ting. Now Boost guy who sold it to me called and said that they will report phone as lost or stolen. What to do?
$100 off phone at Boost for giving them your #, means just that.
max1c said:
Posted this in another thread too but here so more ppl see:
Today went out and bought Sharp Aquos Crystal on Boost with the $100 off deal when you bring your phone number to boost. Got the phone for $50 then took the phone and activated it on Ting. Now Boost guy who sold it to me called and said that they will report phone as lost or stolen. What to do?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The deal you did is NOT the same as paying full price for the phone and then choosing whatever carrier you prefer.
By giving you $100 off (and as you have stated) you were agreeing to "bring your phone number to Boost" which you are violating by bringing your phone number to Ting.
I suggest you cancel Ting and activate with Boost UNLESS you can totally rescind (cancel) your original deal with Boost.
I am not an attorney but it seems pretty simple to understand why Boost is pissed at you.
They gave you $100 off the phone ONLY because you were agreeing use Boost phone service.
Glenn
P.S. Not sure if the offer is still on but I paid Boost $149 for my phone which included a month of free service (up to $50). I might move to Ting but BEFORE I do,
and based on your experience, I will be sure to speak with Boost FIRST, just to make sure there isn't some small print somewhere that might cause me a problem.
I got one of these phones, i bought it today at a walmart
removed the att sim card and then I powered it on to check it out. I have not connected it to the internet yet.
My idea is to use the phone outside the US, with a carrier from another country.
I checked ebay and unlock codes are crazy, like 30dollars.
Is there any other place i can get a cheaper option to carrier unlock the phone?
if you have any tips please help me out, thank you.
ZeldaWW said:
I got one of these phones, i bought it today at a walmart
removed the att sim card and then I powered it on to check it out. I have not connected it to the internet yet.
My idea is to use the phone outside the US, with a carrier from another country.
I checked ebay and unlock codes are crazy, like 30dollars.
Is there any other place i can get a cheaper option to carrier unlock the phone?
if you have any tips please help me out, thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got the Huawei Elate unlocked from Cricket over chat
I just explained to them that I'm an AT&T customer and I needed to use the Elate as a backup
on my plan. I'm pretty sure AT&T would do the same if you explained your situation.
Note: I had already signed up for the Cricket Unlimited plan when I ask for the unlock
is there anyway to sim unlock (carrier unlock this phone? Please
AXng said:
is there anyway to sim unlock (carrier unlock this phone? Please
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
im looking for the same thing.
nope they wont let you unlock from their service...tracfone told me it wouldn't work on there new and improved network so they offered me a $40 rebate off any new tracfone over $80....I cussed and argued for two weeks with no avail...I had another old tracfone and was also running on that old Verizon cmda network, well they activated it..I put the sim card in the galaxy and it works fine....they just wanted me to buy a new phone...well i get on the phone with them to tell them that I got my 902l working on their "new network" ...they said that I was a liar and that the imei for my phone was never even branded with verizon/tracfone ever....I said cool and let them go with what the computers show...I figured out that since i'm flash happy with ASOP pie ROM's i knock out my radios or whatever all the time...so when my phone doesn't work my imei# is also blank slated meaning no carrier or csc identifiers...which means that you have a good chance of getting Boost mobile or metroPCS to work...I'm from Knoxville, TN and I called every carrier trying to get service when tracfone went loopy....Boost will activate it for sure because they run the old cmda...I'm good with tracfone I've always used there service...but I will say that I do have a Tmobile 900T motherboard i got for $10 off ebay on the way because I'm needing bootloader upgrade so I can use my fingerprint sensor on these newer ROMS...And the GSM radios so i can just go with whoever carrier I feel....