Database Users

[SHW-m110s] Korean Anycall Galaxy S, Thread/FAQ/ReadMe/Discussion/Questions

Hi All,
I'm going to put this upfront, because it's more important than the FAQ. Though there names get repeated a bit in this post, a major credit goes to Koe & Appagom for providing a lot of know-how, testing, information sharing and answers to questions users have posted here. This thread wouldn't be half as valuable without them. They should probably consider getting donate links, as it's the popular thing to do around here anyways, and I'd surely give them a few 원 for some soju or their beverage/food of choice for enhancing my phone experience. If they do decide to do something like that, I'd encourage you to do the same if you've used their methods or have even delayed taking action until you saw and read about their successes, trials & tribulations before proceeding with anything risky.
Next important thing, please don't try to flash i9000 or any other SGS variant's firmware unless you are really prepared to experiment and fix your own problems.
I'm writing this because perhaps it will help us SHW-m110s users spread information and have a point of reference, perhaps even bookmark, to spread information specific to our phone. Many of our questions just get posted in the most recently replied to thread with the word "Korean" in it. Part of my goal will also be to provide an area that Korean users who speak little English will be able to post and have a discussion. I will start that process on my own and enlist help from others I know. Please feel free to contribute in any way you can in any of these areas.
With the Froyo update, I'd like to link to one of the more newsworthy and relevant development's due to increased system functionality we have at our disposal. Koe's guide on HowTo OpenVPN on the SHW-M110S (via StrongVPN and maybe others) can be found here Thanks KOE
Tested on FroYo firmware versions DI29 and SK05
Prerequisites:
rooted (I also recommend SuperUser)
busybox installed
You understand the benefits of being able to connect to a stateside OpenVPN server.
openVPN server account
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
By request, other links to other guides or important topics available on XDA (or elsewhere) for the Galaxy S series if you haven't already come across them or just need a point in the right direction will be posted here. So, please let me know if you feel there is some other required reading before the test :
[REF] BIG FAQ! {Flash/Root HOWTO} {ADB&Tutorials} {T&T} {FW-Guide} [MUST READ!]
So, on with the FAQ/guide:
*please note, this is a highly work-in-progress thread and is meant to be supplemental to, not in place of, better, more refined guides featured in the I9000 board. I started to plan this about 24 hours ago but there continue to be questions asked out of place so I'm rushing this a bit
Where can I find ROM "(insert name)"?
How do I update my phone?
Can I put a ROM from the i9000 or another SGS family on this device?
What frequencies does the cellular radio operate on?
Does that make this a world phone?
What limited functionality have users experienced overseas?
How do I use Voice search in Korean?
What else is different from the I9000 and other versions of the SGS?
How do I root my phone?
Where is Samsung Apps/Samsung Apps store?
Are there any other ways to download games in Korea?
Does SK Telecom support OTA updates?
How do I work the DMB tuner?
Why aren't the Secret Codes aren't working?
Can I change the SMS character limit from 80 to 160 characters?
Can we get Social Hub on the phone?
I want the boot animation, do you have it?
This FAQ is terrible, but I have a question...
Where can I find ROM "(insert name)"?
Koe seems to have kept a good list, here.
How do I update my phone?
Download Kies 2.0 here > click on the magnifying glass to the right of "Kies" > click on the white button "Kies 다운로드" > run the file > install > important set your location (left box) to Korea (I assume this to be the default) and your language (right box) can be the language of your choosing.
Can I put a ROM from the i9000 or another SGS family on this device?
This is one of those, 'if you have to ask...stay far far away questions'. Essentially you can come in here if you want a suggestion on what ROMs we might be using at the time, but no, for the love of God don't ask about i9000 or other device ROMs. If you know how to get yourself out of a pickle you wouldn't even need to ask, and if you try and fail you'll be asking us to get you out.
Right now most users are content with z4mod, though there are some Korean ROMs that will be brought up from time to time.
What frequencies does the cellular radio operate on?
*To be updated*
Does that make this a world phone?
XDA users have reported some phone functionality in Russia and the Philippines. And know specific carriers in the US that the phone may/may not be compatible with, and if this will work for users in the EU. It seems that most people, if they have the right APN information, have gotten working this in a variety of countries though there will be at least some U.S. carriers that aren't available and potentially other non-standard frequency users. Still, if I were living in another country I'd probably only get this from a distributor who I'd be able to get a refund from if I couldn't get it working - anything else and you're doing so at your own risk.
What limited functionality have users experienced overseas?
User ulrauko has reported no data functionality on his device in Russia.
It is recommended to work with a local carrier to get APN information to enter into your settings in order to maximize phone functionality. Some users may continue to have 3G problems after this, it might be possible to check setting "data roaming" in wireless & network > Mobile networks, but it'd be wise to check with your carrier to see what happens if you end up roaming onto another carriers towers.
Users precious_mew has reported that he can't use MMS due to his carrier while chester_go has reported an inability for his phone to see his phone number requiring him to edit his phone number (to any number, not necessarily his actual number) to send SMS without any problems receiving SMS. Since then, Chester has been able to "program" his SIM by using the following method:
-Removing the SIM card
-Placing it in another phone that has the "My Number" option (I used an iPhone, heard that older Sony Ericssons work too.)
-Entering my own number in international format (+63917~) (Prior to this, "Unknown" was also shown in the iPhone.)
-Inserting the SIM back to the M110s.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How do I use Voice search in Korean?
Voice Search can be changed in settings>voice & input>voice recognition settings>lanugage...
What else is different from the I9000 and other versions of the SGS?
For now, I assume that we have different cellular radios. Also, we have a T-DMB tuner. We were given different stock software, originally missing Swype and a few other things, since then we have received Swpye through a firmware upgrade. We do utilize different firmware for our SHW-m110s than the typical international versions.
How do I root my phone?
Appagom's Evolving, and well well-supported, Post.
Where is Samsung Apps/Samsung Apps store?
The Samsung Apps store in Korea is a subset of SK Telecom's store, I highly doubt this would be accessible overseas as I think it's SIM card dependent. There you will find a full version of Asphalt for a free download. Please note, some games, even western games such as Farm Frenzy only have Korean language menu, while Asphalt has both English and Korean. I'd also guess there is no 24 hour return policy, but any confirmation would be great, and I have to presume that charges will be added to your monthly phone bill. *As of Froyo SK has partially, and poorly, integrated part of their(?) app store into the marketplace in a separate tab called "SKT"
Are there any other ways to download games in Korea?
Being rooted will allow you to run MarketEnabler and fake a SIM code to be in one of a few countries. I don't think anyone on this thread knows the legality of such actions, so do so at your own risk.
*Note, as of Nov 15th, the Froyo update fast web installer is not functional. Will update if there is a change and I remember. Also, see Koe's guide to getting VPN working which can give you access to location restricted apps.
I hold out hope that fast web installer for AppBrain will be updated to work on the SGS, there are reports that some items such as GoogleEarth can be installed in this manner where users can't find the app in the marketplace.
There are also always "other ways" amongst them there are 3rd party sites such as slideme.org where you can find both paid and free games (some of which might not be available in the marketplace due to developer preference and/or marketplace restrictions). Slideme will work direct on the phone and you can also use it on your PC to download and sideload apps. As a matter of fact, games can be found by developers here at XDA which can be sideloaded. If you root your phone you will, hopefully, be able to use market enabler to sign as though you aren't in Korea (use wifi + airplane mode) and be able to download games directly from the marketplace. Additionally there are always the less legitimate ways.
Does SK Telecom support OTA updates?
User akbk84 reported to me in August that he did receive an OTA udpate. However, this was weeks after I had received my first, and I was perhaps on my 3rd or 4th update by then. He She (my apologies ) did, however, receive the most current update. I do not know what SK/Samsung plan going forward, perhaps just critical updates will be OTA. I personally have, and I kind of recall reading someone else might've, received an OTA camera update.
Update: In the t-store there is an app called T-Upgrade, we believe it is supposed to give OTA updates to the phone. After downloading it didn't help me get the newest FW, so I'll post further information when I hear of a success story.
How do I work the DMB tuner? The DMB tuner works best with the DMB antenna extended. Extend the DMB tuner, located on the top right of the phone above the power button.
The secret codes were changed, or removed from, or broken during, an August firmware update. For now, we will keep a running list of working secrete codes here:
TouchKey F/W Info - *#86824#
- Has an "F/W Update" Button
- Can set the "Menu" and "Back" key sensitivity
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
SKT Admin menu (general settings, such as: network, system, sms, etc.)
From the dialer enter: 319712358
You will be prompted for a pasword: 774632
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks koe1974
Can I change the SMS character limit from 80 to 160 characters?
This seems to be a common question posed from people living outside of Korea. Handcent defaults to 160 characters before changing the message to an MMS, how this will affect your message setting and carrier costs have never been verified so please do some sort of conclusive test and update us. Within Korea, MMS/SMS have the same pricing and free allotment, so it doesn't seem to be necessary to have the 160 character difference, also I haven't heard anything about how this might affect the messages and how SKT would deal with and treat extra long SMS messages.
Can we get Social Hub on the phone?
As far as I know, no one has successfully extracted and loaded Social Hub onto our phones.
I want the boot animation, do you have it?
Yes, please go to this post for more information.
This FAQ is terrible, but I have a question...
Please ask, provide better answers, do whatever to help us improve our SHW-m110s experience.
Thanks all!

여기 한국어 faq 쓰겠습니다, 하지만 미국 사람 입니다. 그름, 한굴말 잘 못 합니다, 미안합니다.

i'm hoping the mods will create a subforum for this model, since they seem to be doing it for all the models
or instead of that, they should combine all the forums into one
no idea what their plans are, but it's really messy as it's right now

Agreed, if I wasn't busy writing this I might've actually posted a link in the Galaxy Tab forum regarding your proposal when I saw it pop up on my Google reader.

re. the unlimited data option. it is currently available. i called SKT a few days ago and changed my plan to unlimited.

steveohan said:
re. the unlimited data option. it is currently available. i called SKT a few days ago and changed my plan to unlimited.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are correct, this thread has paid for itself already!

i'm so envious.... USA and Korea, and many other countries already have unlimited data
but we in Canada still stuck with limited data

Ha, if I were still in the US I'd still be a bit jealous of the Korean system. U.S. buy a Galaxy S, get a gimped phone and be forced into a data plan (no FF camera, no tethering with the exception of Sprint in 4G areas). These days new contracts at the big two, AT&T and Verizon don't even get unlimited data IIRC (Verizon is implementing capped data, not sure on the timeframe)
In Korea you can buy a phone without a data plan, or a plan without a voice plan. Unlimited data plan with 200 texts and 300 minutes (I might've reversed those) is essentially less than half the price of the cheapest AT&T and Verizon plan with more than 1GB.
In summary, you can have:
contract free
no voice plan
no data plan
unlimited data on the super cheap
free tethering (not available on any carrier in the U.S. in the near future with the exception of Sprint but only on the 4G network)
Free wifi access points
Compared to Canada I pay less than 50CAD for my plan.
Also, not available on SKT, the carrier that has the SGS, but one more reason to be jealous of possibilities here...KT expands Wi-Fi coverage to all subways

I found these at an korean site.
It's used with odin to root the phone.
NOT TESTED
hope this help
link here:
http://webcache.googleusercontent.c...tml?id=tipn&no=80&aq=f&aqi=&aql=&oq=&gs_rfai=

i think we should link all the other relevant Korean Galaxy S question to this topic, for a quick and easy index
i'll add them here as i find them
Korean Galaxy S Missing Features and Laggy
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=731466
[Q] Updating a Korean Galaxy S on a Mac
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=766310
Anycall Galaxy S?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=761040
Anycall Galaxy S?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=761095
Korea Figures
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=758447
Official firmware DG07 pushed out in Korea via Kies
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=725407
Android 2.2 coming to Galaxy S. Starting with the Korean version.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=723713
[Q] m110s EDGE problem
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=774508
Korean keyboard apk files from Korean Galaxy S?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=778256
[Q] Samsung Galaxy S SMS Problem
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=760159
Korean keyboard apk files from Korean Galaxy S?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=778256
[Q] Need help on fixing boot.bin and Sbl.bin for my Korean Galaxy S (M110S)
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=790388
[Q] Anycall Galaxy stuck..>.> please HELP!
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=812106

Note: we (mods) are discussing the best way to combine/organize all the Galaxy S sections for ease of use.
In the meantime, I'm making this thread a sticky in this section for easy reference, 'till we determine if it will get it's own section in the long run.

vragon said:
I found these at an korean site.
It's used with odin to root the phone.
NOT TESTED
hope this help
link here:
http://webcache.googleusercontent.c...tml?id=tipn&no=80&aq=f&aqi=&aql=&oq=&gs_rfai=
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your link is more recent than mine, I think there is some merits to using both, I think the method I have is safer and doesn't use ODIN but it'll take some research. I'll see if I can look into it tomorrow 3 am right now. In any case, I appreciate the search and the links.
*Edit* As I said before, I think the way I have posted is preferred by the Korean community, the most recent, popular hack going on there links to mine. According to the discussion at matp, I think there's a smaller chance of bricking with the method I posted. However, also like I said before, I think thought there might be merits to both, so I'll put your link on the front page as an option to those who want to use Odin. Either way, thanks again.
AllGamer said:
i think we should link all the other relevant Korean Galaxy S question to this topic, for a quick and easy index
i'll add them here as i find them
Korean Galaxy S Missing Features and Laggy
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=731466
[Q] Updating a Korean Galaxy S on a Mac
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=766310
Anycall Galaxy S?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=761040
Anycall Galaxy S?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=761095
Korea Figures
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=758447
Official firmware DG07 pushed out in Korea via Kies
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=725407
Android 2.2 coming to Galaxy S. Starting with the Korean version.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=723713
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I definitely contemplated it, especially the most recently active thread. You have more experience here so I'll defer to your wisdom, so there wouldn't be much hard in essentially "bumping" those other threads by posting a link to here? Or is there another method that's preferable? The one thing about the most recently active thread was two people were having the same issue and I wasn't sure if they'd be in contact there. I definitely want them to be in contact in one place or the other, so bumping that might actually do them some good. I'll post the link there now.
One more question. I plan, or at least planned, on posting when we receive Froyo in a new thread (I think it'll at least give the community the "update is around the corner" feeling that they desperately crave) and they won't be going out of there way to be looking here. Also, it seems to be the general community practice, even posting rumors they here from some guy in a kiosk . Do you advise against me starting a new thread when that occurs? I could always still link here even though I think it'd be expected that a lot of the initial discussion would occur there.

thanks for the update sirphunkee , it's good to know the idea hasn't been dropped.

alovell83, feel free to create new topics for worthy information, as most likely people would like to add feedback, etc
you don't want everything in this topic, else it will become a big mess, so instead we'll use this stickied topic as an index for all new Korea SGS related topic discussions, and important announcements.
until we learn the fate of the Admin decision on how to improve the SGS family forums

Good to hear on both the integration and the sticky, sirphunkee, thanks! We're feeling more welcome here already! But now you make me wish I wrote a better thread, well, it's already Saturday here so I guess I can get to my planned improvements when I wake up. Hopefully work on getting a 3-button equipped SGS as well so I can get some better rooting info available. More importantly, I'll probably, finally, register at matpclub and tell them we have a special section over here and looking to share best practices with there community.

you might want to write up something for your fellow Koreans, about the trick to warm up the phone to enable the 3 button download mode.
I still can not believe it myself, but there have been mixed reports from people saying yes it works (3 buttons did not work before the heat), and no it doesn't work
so i'm really confused, but it's worth a try for a few guys that got the Korea SGS and got stuck because the ROM Flash failed

AllGamer said:
thanks for the update sirphunkee , it's good to know the idea hasn't been dropped.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
alovell83 said:
Good to hear on both the integration and the sticky, sirphunkee, thanks! We're feeling more welcome here already! But now you make me wish I wrote a better thread, well, it's already Saturday here so I guess I can get to my planned improvements when I wake up. Hopefully work on getting a 3-button equipped SGS as well so I can get some better rooting info available. More importantly, I'll probably, finally, register at matpclub and tell them we have a special section over here and looking to share best practices with there community.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No prob I too would love to see a better organization of all the Galaxy sections...and I think the odds are very good that the final structure will be at least very similar to what's been proposed in AllGamer's poll (which is what we're using as the reference in the mod discussions).
Anyway, thanks for both of your efforts on all this, it is very much appreciated by both myself and the other users around here!

alovell83 said:
Your link is more recent than mine, I think there is some merits to using both, I think the method I have is safer and doesn't use ODIN but it'll take some research. I'll see if I can look into it tomorrow 3 am right now. In any case, I appreciate the search and the links.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since we can root the device, in theory we can easily fix the 70 chars limited sms and so on...

vragon said:
Since we can root the device, in theory we can easily fix the 70 chars limited sms and so on...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For people using the device outside of Korea, please fix for yourself. For domestic users who text alot, I wouldn't look for a fix, I'm under the impression you'll be charged for 4 texts if you use 241 bytes. While if you use MMS instead (the default when you go 81+ bytes) is counted as 1 message.
You need to have 3G on to send the MMS, which used to be annoying for me because I used to leave 3G off bc of 500mb limit, but they just started their unlimited data program so I now use 3G on 90% of the day.
In any case, do what is convenient for you.

Thanks for creating this thread alovell83.
Just to clear things out for FAQ #3, I was able to solve the issue PERMANENTLY by:
-Removing the SIM card
-Placing it in another phone that has the "My Number" option (I used an iPhone, heard that older Sony Ericssons work too.)
-Entering my own number in international format (+63917~) (Prior to this, "Unknown" was also shown in the iPhone.)
-Inserting the SIM back to the M110s.
There
PS I wasn't able to reply to you in the other thread, but 3G works now. I just had to enable data roaming on startup and use apndroid (avail. in market) to switch data on/off.

[Q] Galaxy Note 3 sm-n9006 Problems

Hi,
I've already bought a galaxy Note 3 n9006 from China and a day after it I came back to my country, but unfortunately I found it can not work with any Google applications and it can not add Google account and this is a very big problem for me, also it do not have any languages except English , Korean and Chinese. Can anybody help me? what should I do?

siamaknemati said:
Hi,
I've already bought a galaxy Note 3 n9006 from China and a day after it I came back to my country, but unfortunately I found it can not work with any Google applications and it can not add Google account and this is a very big problem for me, also it do not have any languages except English , Korean and Chinese. Can anybody help me? what should I do?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You will need to go through the process of learning how to root and unlock the phone. I hope there will be enough support or assistance for you on this site and that it being an N9006 won't be too problematic.
I am in China, but went out of my way to avoid the N9002, N9006, N9008 or any other variant they are selling here. I get my hands on the N9005 in a few days, so time will tell if it actually bloody works or not in China. It wouldn't surprise me to find that we are stuck in the same same boat on different shores...
---------- Post added at 05:30 AM ---------- Previous post was at 05:25 AM ----------
s327374 said:
You will need to go through the process of learning how to root and unlock the phone. I hope there will be enough support or assistance for you on this site and that it being an N9006 won't be too problematic.
I am in China, but went out of my way to avoid the N9002, N9006, N9008 or any other variant they are selling here. I get my hands on the N9005 in a few days, so time will tell if it actually bloody works or not in China. It wouldn't surprise me to find that we are stuck in the same same boat on different shores...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
siamaknemati said:
Hi,
I've already bought a galaxy Note 3 n9006 from China and a day after it I came back to my country, but unfortunately I found it can not work with any Google applications and it can not add Google account and this is a very big problem for me, also it do not have any languages except English , Korean and Chinese. Can anybody help me? what should I do?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually the process looks like it might be easy enough for us:
http://techbeasts.com/2013/09/27/ho...ot-samsung-galaxy-note-3-all-versions-guide/#
Describes the way to do it.
Then you'll probably need to stick the most recent GAPPS on it, if it isn't already on it.
Good luck and have fun getting through the nervousness of rooting your first (I presume) device.
Cheers.

Should I return the n9006?
Hi there - I'm living in Shanghai and just found this thread. I bought the sm-n9006 today and was excited until I started reading about region locking and non-LTE versions,etc.
This is my first Android device so I'm super new but the bloatware on this thing is annoying! I wanted to remove this stuff and get some Google apps installed but I can't even find the Google play app to get started.
I'm concerned that because it's the mainland china version that this is going to be a bigger pain than it's worth. Should I wait a few months and have a family member buy a US model? Any other reasons to stay clear of this china model?
Is rooting the device a must if I want to get full access to apps, etc.?
Also, it seems this model does not have LTE. Is that correct? I ravel/stay in the US over summer holidays. Any help/advice is greatly appreciated!

gaylonalfano said:
Hi there - I'm living in Shanghai and just found this thread. I bought the sm-n9006 today and was excited until I started reading about region locking and non-LTE versions,etc.
This is my first Android device so I'm super new but the bloatware on this thing is annoying! I wanted to remove this stuff and get some Google apps installed but I can't even find the Google play app to get started.
I'm concerned that because it's the mainland china version that this is going to be a bigger pain than it's worth. Should I wait a few months and have a family member buy a US model? Any other reasons to stay clear of this china model?
Is rooting the device a must if I want to get full access to apps, etc.?
Also, it seems this model does not have LTE. Is that correct? I ravel/stay in the US over summer holidays. Any help/advice is greatly appreciated!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The bloatware won't be your main problem, it will be no access to google apps. I wouldn't worry about no LTE, you probably won't notice.
Importantly for Laowai, rooting is necessary, unless you are fluent in chinese, and can therefore use the Chinese markets and apps.
There are quite a few places online to find out how to unlock and root your device - this forum/link above/galaxynote3root.com/etc. I think you'll need about three to four hours of uninterrupted time (as a beginner), a pc (I've used a mac and it is annoying), fast-ish internet speed (to dowload the files), maybe a vpn to look at You tube clips that exemplify (eg, gfwvpn.com is handy and easy to install on both your computer and device), and only a small amount intellect.
You go through the process as above link or elsewhere, and then flash on an updated GAPPS zip if it isn't on the stuff you downloaded.
People here and elsewhere have really made it simple compared to when I first did mine (or maybe I have a little more knowledge). I'm only really just getting the hang of it all now and find it really enjoyable part of Android experience. Actually, just fell in love again with my S3 using CM... Wondering why I am going back to touch wiz, actually...
I'll know on Monday if it was the right choice for me after a day with the new giant phone.
Good luck.

Thanks for the post and information, I am new to android so it looks like I'll have to start doing my research. I am not fluent but certainly advanced so perhaps there are some Chinese options though I assume it'd be a better experience if I had it rooted instead.
Are you in SH by chance? I'd treat you to a coffee or something here in Pudong if so while you tutor me haha.
Thanks again for your help.

gaylonalfano said:
Thanks for the post and information, I am new to android so it looks like I'll have to start doing my research. I am not fluent but certainly advanced so perhaps there are some Chinese options though I assume it'd be a better experience if I had it rooted instead.
Are you in SH by chance? I'd treat you to a coffee or something here in Pudong if so while you tutor me haha.
Thanks again for your help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, mate. I'm BJ ren. I'm certain you'd be able to find someone in Shanghai who can root an Andoid device with that offer though.
Good luck.

Hah, no problem. I love BJ but our work is in SH for now. If the air quality would get better up north I'd be pushing to move to BJ.

SM-N9006 More than root needed?
I have the same SM-N9006 purchased in China and now back in the USA. Most of the Chinese in the phone was converted to English through the normal settings. The problem is the Apps... they are all Chinese and need to be replaced with English versions. The current ROM blocks all access to the Google Play Store, even if it is side loaded, it is forcibly closed when opened.
Would it not be better to re-ROM the phone with a Samsung stock ROM that will work with the N9006 hardware? Is there such a ROM?
Please be specific on the steps (not the how to's) that need to be taken to use the N9006 in the USA with the Play Store Apps.
Much Thanks in advance, I'm also a newbie on a learning curve.

Support for Safe Rooting ( non-Warranty Voiding )
Just as a side note guys,
@designgears & @Chainfire have developed a warranty safe root for other versions of our phone already.
For all of you who already know about the problem with KNOX and voiding your warranty once you root your phone join me on these posts to get us freed from all the worry
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2479952&page=151
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2487916

I just got this Note 3 SM-N9006, I think mine is rooted that it has everything as if it's normal Note 3 in the US. But I note that it does not show that it connects using 4G/LTE. Does it have 4G/LTE, air command, etc ... capabilities to turn on somehow?
Is there an app that display what really inside your note, I mean the actual hardware of the phone?

N9006 doesn't have 4G/LTE. air command is ok
Sent from my N9005 using Tapatalk

ciditin said:
I just got this Note 3 SM-N9006, I think mine is rooted that it has everything as if it's normal Note 3 in the US.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Really? I wouldn't be too happy to buy a rooted phone from Samsung... you won't get one officially at least. Especially if you bought it in China that would mean its been messed with prior to you buying it. I like my phones coming rooted.
If you had them root it after them unboxing your phone ( hopefully not with Kingo App or some suspicious app that connects to the internet to do its thing ) then your fine. Provided you saw them unbox everything...its not a cheap phone.
If the serial numbers on the box and your phone match ( and the box has some Chinese ) then your fine.
If area under the removable battery didn't have any bright yellow sticker with lots of nasty looking Chinese text, then your fine.
If your in the U.S then its fine you don't need to worry about warranty.... as I am still currently in Shanghai I got mine official with a 2 year warranty.
Sorry if I sound too untrusting of phone sellers here. I have been told of the countless stories about how innocent people buy phones they assume are "new". Just recently I had to help my friend fight some store "official Samsung Store" owner for his replacement of a dead Note 2 dud ( you know those fake recycled phones that are sold in Shenzhen from HongKong that live for 4 months tops ).

HELP
I have a FAKE SM-N9006 (Thought was real coz I can access samsung app store). Thinking of installing CWM recovery which I did and now the phone keeps restarting after loading (not a bootloop, but continuous restarting. I can't flash nor restore as I can't no longer go into recovery mode through google MTK tools and hell no way of even entering download mode in the 1st place. Please HELP.:crying:

Jackwu696 said:
I have a FAKE SM-N9006 (Thought was real coz I can access samsung app store). Thinking of installing CWM recovery which I did and now the phone keeps restarting after loading (not a bootloop, but continuous restarting. I can't flash nor restore as I can't no longer go into recovery mode through google MTK tools and hell no way of even entering download mode in the 1st place. Please HELP.:crying:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
do you still have the phone?....PM me please

China made SM-N9006
Hey I got my self a china made note 3. I would very much like to root it to get some bloat ware off, and to also find a android version 5 rom to feel like a cool kid.
It doesn't have a download mode, that is replaced by a Chinese factory mode.
SHARING IS CARING
RW
(Exhibit 4g 2 & Note 3 User)

Can N9006 run 3G or 4G SOMEHOW? Or is there no workaround?
Hello, I am having the same issue someone mentioned about not getting 4G (or even 3G) with the SM-N900 (model N9006) Chinese Note 3. I did not see a solution to the initial post, though. My phone does everything else, but running on Edge is pretty shoddy. I called T-Mobile (my carrier), and they made me enter some settings into the "access point names" tab (apn protocol, port number, etc.). This did not resolve the problem, unfortunately. The back of the phone, under the battery, says it is 3G WCDMA + GSM. T-Mobile runs on GSM, so it should work, I am absolutely stumped. As I said, all the apps work, and it is running Jelly Bean, it's just the slow as molasses internet that bugs me. Is there some sort of solution to this? I could not really find anything worthwhile on any Google searches. Thanks in advance! :fingers-crossed:

I have n9006 and when I type the star and hash key it Cannot display and when switch the data off it automatically switch on and I don't know what to do with the phone,I cannot use it

Samsung conviction, 4.4.2 troubles and a cry for help

I am just another angry user, after the "fabulous" android 4.4.2 implementation made by Samsung for my (previously) beloved note3.
This is intended to be a an indictment made for a public conviction of Samsung, for what they did, and also a cry for help.
Please, if you have counterarguments and/or practical advices, expose them here.
I'm expecting at least an official position from Samsung, considering that customers of a 700 Euro flagship phablet deserve their complete attention.
I'm an Orange Romania customer, and I was one of the happy users of note3 (Orange firmware) until several days ago, when I decided to give up to the upgrade invitation message arrived, to move up to 4.4.2.
What I received:
1. The first and most important problem: no call recording program is working anymore. I do need such a program, because I receive a lot (I mean A LOT) of tasks and situations, only by voice calls, daily. Anyway, i really do not think I need to justify my needs, but I'm prepared to do it if absolutely necessary. Where is the solution, my "dear" Samsung ?
2. I'm not able anymore to read my IMAP4 mail account without activating synchronization. In the previous 4.3 version, with synchronization disabled, I was able to refresh manually the mail. Of course, with synchronization now enabled, the battery is drained in a day or less.
3. iGO cannot be used with maps and content kept on SD Card anymore. I've taken that SD card especially for my phone, now I am not able to use it. This is like a curse of Samsung, thrown in my face !
4. Adobe flash is now completely unusable. I used flash with dolphin very well on previous 4.3. Now, that hacked version presented here (thank you XDA) is extremely slow even on this monster hardware that is note 3. Where is that big difference from Apple, one of the reasons I've switched to Android several years ago, to be able to browse flash sites ?
5. If I'm not happy with an "improvement" offered by manufacturer, I think I'm entitled to request to keep my previous system, without any penalties (only at most with some excuses), but Samsung do not let me go back to the previous behavior of my phone. So, I'm not free anymore to use my own device as I wanted to do ? What the hell? What is then the difference that Samsung made in terms of freedom of use compared to Apple, well-known for their restrictions paranoia ? The freedom of Android and the efficiency of Samsung made me switch from Apple for good, several years ago, without regrets, but now Samsung seems that they started on the same path of restrictions. Maybe is time to look somewhere else and switch again...
I really think Samsung has to solve this. But not next month or next week, nor even tomorrow. Samsung must do something NOW: or a patch, or the ability to switch back to the exact previous behavior with 4.3
Thank you all for your opinions and (of course) valuable solutions.
LE:
Finally, after a long pain, a lot of nerves, but thanks to the supporting messages posted here, I've succeeded to "downgrade" my Note3 with kitkat , by changing it with a new one with latest JB 4.3 version, just asking for tech support at Orange and Samsung. If anyone interested, please read all thread, I simply asked them to restore lost functionalities, but I think I was really angry so their solution was to change the device.
Maybe some sticky messages (suggested in my post here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=51890578&postcount=22 would be useful for a lot of us).

The biggest problem is the Knox trigger that voids the warranty. I paid a lot of money for this phone and I should be able to use it however I want, rooted or unrooted, and they should have no right to void my warranty based on this.
I'm thinking to root this device and if I ever need to send the phone for repair and they won't, I'll play dumb and call for consumer rights.
Sent from my Samsung Galaxy Note 3

lvnatic said:
The biggest problem is the Knox trigger that voids the warranty. I paid a lot of money for this phone and I should be able to use it however I want, rooted or unrooted, and they should have no right to void my warranty based on this.
I'm thinking to root this device and if I ever need to send the phone for repair and they won't, I'll play dumb and call for consumer rights.
Sent from my Samsung Galaxy Note 3
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was going to buy this phone later but after reading the op I think I will wait first or look elsewhere. Samsung is really copying apple and apple should sue them again...

1. Call recording is working, there's a mod for that, but ur device should be rooted.
2-3. I dunno never use.
4. Flash player is working. There's a way to enable it in Kk, and can be used with boat browser (dunno others).
As for go back to 4.3, it is unable due to the bootloader installed. They keep on making patches to the bootloader. Something that we cannot stop them.
@nm8 : samsung vs apple = never ending stories.
Sent from N7105, DN3 with AGNi kernel.

I could understand why all android devices manufacturers are trying to keep their customers away from rooting, this is just because possible increases in customer support expenses.
But of course, I don't want to break my warranty agreement, and with 4.3 I didn't feel the need to root the note 3, it was completely functional.
@nm8 - Yes, Apple could sue Samsung again, now Samsung is copying even the worst habits from Apple, I don't understand that crayziness of Samsung.
@antique_sonic - Thank you, I know about the mod for call recording, but as I said, I want to play fair and safe, to keep my warranty. And the same with adobe flash, it worked perfectly in 4.3, why do I need now that headaches ?
There are also a lot of other troubles with SD Card in 4.4.2, just another example: I'm not able to keep my apps backed up with ES file explorer on SD Card anymore. I used to make copies of my apps because I've met sometimes problems with some apps after updates, so I was able to return to the previous version of that app (AirFun from Realtek is just an example of an app that lost some functionalities after update, so I was able to install the previous working version from backup).
I wonder if there are some "eyes" from Samsung staff on this forum, what is their official opinion about all these complains ?
Thank you,

You do realize the SDcard issue is GOOGLE's doing, not Samsung's?
Google updates the Kitkat permissions, Samsung had nothing to do withit. Any issues with apps you need to complain to their developers to update their permissions.

Thank you ShadowLea, most probably you're right in technical terms.
BUT the real problem is, if I'm not happy with this change in Google's android policy, as a Samsung's customer, I need to be able to choose to keep my previous functions as they were before upgrade. In other words, I must be able to revert to 4.3, without any pain, penalties and so on, at most with excuses from Samsung. Because Samsung is now forcing me to stay at 4.4.2, not Google ! Is it fair ?
Thank you,

The flash player problem is also Google and not Samsung.
Life isn't fair and Samsung already have your money so why should they care?
It's not like the other options are any better. None of the other manufacturers care about you either.
Sent from my SM-N9005 using Tapatalk

dr.m0x said:
The flash player problem is also Google and not Samsung.
Life isn't fair and Samsung already have your money so why should they care?
It's not like the other options are any better. None of the other manufacturers care about you either.
Sent from my SM-N9005 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
He should root the monster and be happy. Like me. Lol
Sent from my ME173X using xda premium

He should root the monster and be happy. Like me. Lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe you're right, but what about losing the warranty, if I will really need it in the future ?
Or maybe there is already out there a complete reversable rooting method for 4.4.2 that I don't know about ?
Thank you,

@dr.m0x - Ok, let's try to change something about this !
Still have no idea how to do it, but there must be a solution ! We must be the real owners of our paid devices, and we must be able to use them by our own rules, not their rules!
Thank you,

nick61 said:
Maybe you're right, but what about losing the warranty, if I will really need it in the future ?
Or maybe there is already out there a complete reversable rooting method for 4.4.2 that I don't know about ?
Thank you,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
reversable in terms of unroot = YES
reversable in terms of KNOX flag = NO (bounty hunter for this has reached $3K+, yet no one claims)
nick61 said:
@dr.m0x - Ok, let's try to change something about this !
Still have no idea how to do it, but there must be a solution ! We must be the real owners of our paid devices, and we must be able to use them by our own rules, not their rules!
Thank you,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
at the moment to be the "real owner" in terms to be able to fully utilize is only to root your device, and those "headache" setting for flash player. But "real owner" to be able to reverse KNOX flag is still a NO answer at the moment.
And "real owner" to be able to reverse/downgrade bootloader (without any problem), also stil a NO at the moment
Just do a few testing of common issue on Note 3 + read properly on how to root + use any other custom thingy (follow properly what the thread said), you are good to go.
Warranty so far is needed for those who never try to understand first what is the thread said.
Though all the devs here develop thing just for hobbies and free (donation is optional), they will do all the necessary testing on their device first before releasing it out. So, if their device can work, similar device to them should be able to work properly (doesn't necessary to claim your warranty, unless there's a hardware failure due to several tweaking you eager to try yourself without reading properly)
All I wrote here is just my opinion, just a thought. You may not agree, and not necessary to follow.

I'm totally with you... This actually looks like a "Double - penetration" by Sammy AND Google two companies destined to lose costumers... See? http://bbc.com/news/business-26933449
My unrooted, bloatware-ated, kit-kat-ed note 3 is half useful in practical terms than the rooted S3 I gave to my wife, if it weren't for the screen size, I would have change it with the old S3.
Sent from my SM-N9005 using Tapatalk

I'm samsung user from galaxy s2, note 1. And now note 3. I'm happy to use both devices on previous.
But since knox implementation on note 3. I feel like stuck in some where I cannot do any what I want on the phone.
I though that having note 3 will same as having note 1 and s2. Freedom...
So, this probably will my last samsung device. Will switch to other brand if i change phone.
Sent from my SM-N9005

When you look at the perspective of root/ void warranty everybrand is more or less the same except nexus and sime new china brands like xiaomi or oppo. In htc you void your warranty by unlockibg bootloader. Sony same thing (sony devices you can backup your ta) lg as qfuses and the list can be larger.
I had twice problems with samsung knoxed devices (2 s4) and they never rejected warranty repairs. And you can allways kill your device in order to cheat samsung service. Like they cheat you putt a flag on your phone. So I decided to trip mine again and if they refuse warranty I will be give them a nice war.
Sent from my SM-N9005 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

Thank you all for your empathy and support.
Encouraged by all these messages, I've succeeded yesterday to CHANGE THE NOTE3 with a new one with latest 4.3 version at Orange service.
I don't know if they agreed to solve my request only because my old client status, but the service tech guy from Orange, specialized in Samsung devices, spent over 4 hours looking for all the flaws and troubles I've mentioned with 4.4.2. Also, he had several long phone conversations with a tech guy from Samsung.
My advice to everyone in the same situation is to try everything they could try, and also, if possible, DO NOT UPDATE TO 4.4.2 !
Now my device is completely restored to full functionalities: call recording, flash sites with the last official adobe flash apk and dolphin and reasonable speed, battery is again lasting at least 2 days of heavy use (calls, net, video, mails, everyday notes etc.)
Also, I've learned that even the "inside" guys from tech support have no other clever solution to downgrade or to solve my problems.
Both Orange and Samsung tech guys promised to inform and escalate my complaints about 4.4.2 implementation so maybe there will be a patch in the near future.
Thanks again XDA,

nick61 said:
I am just another angry user, after the "fabulous" android 4.4.2 implementation made by Samsung for my (previously) beloved note3.
This is intended to be a an indictment made for a public conviction of Samsung, for what they did, and also a cry for help.
Please, if you have counterarguments and/or practical advices, expose them here.
I'm expecting at least an official position from Samsung, considering that customers of a 700 Euro flagship phablet deserve their complete attention.
I'm an Orange Romania customer, and I was one of the happy users of note3 (Orange firmware) until several days ago, when I decided to give up to the upgrade invitation message arrived, to move up to 4.4.2.
What I received:
1. The first and most important problem: no call recording program is working anymore. I do need such a program, because I receive a lot (I mean A LOT) of tasks and situations, only by voice calls, daily. Anyway, i really do not think I need to justify my needs, but I'm prepared to do it if absolutely necessary. Where is the solution, my "dear" Samsung ?
2. I'm not able anymore to read my IMAP4 mail account without activating synchronization. In the previous 4.3 version, with synchronization disabled, I was able to refresh manually the mail. Of course, with synchronization now enabled, the battery is drained in a day or less.
3. iGO cannot be used with maps and content kept on SD Card anymore. I've taken that SD card especially for my phone, now I am not able to use it. This is like a curse of Samsung, thrown in my face !
4. Adobe flash is now completely unusable. I used flash with dolphin very well on previous 4.3. Now, that hacked version presented here (thank you XDA) is extremely slow even on this monster hardware that is note 3. Where is that big difference from Apple, one of the reasons I've switched to Android several years ago, to be able to browse flash sites ?
5. If I'm not happy with an "improvement" offered by manufacturer, I think I'm entitled to request to keep my previous system, without any penalties (only at most with some excuses), but Samsung do not let me go back to the previous behavior of my phone. So, I'm not free anymore to use my own device as I wanted to do ? What the hell? What is then the difference that Samsung made in terms of freedom of use compared to Apple, well-known for their restrictions paranoia ? The freedom of Android and the efficiency of Samsung made me switch from Apple for good, several years ago, without regrets, but now Samsung seems that they started on the same path of restrictions. Maybe is time to look somewhere else and switch again...
I really think Samsung has to solve this. But not next month or next week, nor even tomorrow. Samsung must do something NOW: or a patch, or the ability to switch back to the exact previous behavior with 4.3
1....pe forum gasesti versiunea modificata pentru adobe flash care merge f bine pe kitkat cu firefox de exemplu.
2. Daca copiezi continutul igo pe internal nu pe external o sa iti functioneze perfect. Oricum asta e vina google si nu samsung, si mai avem si 32 interni, deci destul loc
3. Pentru mail iti recomand K-9 mail client il regasesti pe play store.
4. Inregistrarea convorbirilor e putintel ilegala fara mandat...deci...cred totusi ca te plangi prea tare pt niste chestii care din cate stiu eu au toate rezolvare pe aici pe la xda
My poit is that all of his problems has an workaround here on xda. Only first one need a root. The rest of them is a metter of minutes of searching xda.
Sent from my SM-N9005 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

@calinormy
Thank you for your message (let's keep it in english if anyone else is interested).
Point by point (in fact covered in the first post):
1. Yes, I've already tried the hacked flash for 4.4.2, is unbelievable slow on such a monster (hardware speaking) as note3. Official old version is stable and flawless in 4.3
2. Ok, that's true, but I want to use the internal speedy memory for other stuff, and I want to organize files on my own rules, not their's... yes, this is a Google's problem, but my request to Samsung is to let me downgrade from 4.4.2 if I do not like it.
3. I'll check it
4. Concerning call recording, the legal issues are exclusively my problems, not Samsung's. In fact, is not even a legal problem, if the other person is informed about recording.
But please read my last post, they've changed my phone with another new one with 4.3 !
Thank you,

Glad you got your problems sorted. KK is ****, said the man who refuses to try it. Because it's ****
New firmware doesn't always mean better. For me, Gingerbread was a hell of a lot better than ICS.

To be frank... I don't know what the hell is beneficial "for me" by upgrading to kitkat All the changes in KitKat are about implementing restrictions by Samsung or Google If I wanted to be restricted I would have chosen an iPhone in the first place... They simply sh&#tted on what all android is about :silly: and the as#hole sammy even lured people into upgrading. Never again will I trust all those official phone reviewers on forums or youtube... the ordinary man's experience is what counts.

Does anyone here own a Samsung Galaxy Tab A (8.4) (SM-T307U)?

Seems like a simple enough question but I've been having a really difficult time trying to gain traction about information on this tablet or any tablet.

Yes. i've owned one since is was released last year but there is NOTHING on xda. Even though it's new and fairly speedy, no one has worked on an ROM for this. I wanted to unlock and root it so I can use it on another ISP/Mobile.

Gasaraki- said:
Yes. i've owned one since is was released last year but there is NOTHING on xda. Even though it's new and fairly speedy, no one has worked on an ROM for this. I wanted to unlock and root it so I can use it on another ISP/Mobile.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's very very frustrating, there seems to be very little support for it. Do you know if you can charge while having a thumb drive hooked up? Like OTG style? I have purchased 2 tablets so far and neither have this capabilities. I don't want to be purchasing a third with the same result

Gasaraki- said:
Yes. i've owned one since is was released last year but there is NOTHING on xda. Even though it's new and fairly speedy, no one has worked on an ROM for this. I wanted to unlock and root it so I can use it on another ISP/Mobile.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just ordered o e and it showed up today and it also does not charge while a thumb drive is hooked up. Have you found any information or help on this product anywhere. Do you know of any other forums where people actually answer problems? I am so impossibly frustrated

Gasaraki- said:
Yes. i've owned one since is was released last year but there is NOTHING on xda. Even though it's new and fairly speedy, no one has worked on an ROM for this. I wanted to unlock and root it so I can use it on another ISP/Mobile.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No need to root to switch to another isp. get unlock code from current isp, install odin 3.14.1 and install any isp firmware you want from https://galaxyfirmware.com/model/SM-T307U/ I had an at&t branded with android9, and now i am running wind/freedom android11 firmware.

bbortnick said:
No need to root to switch to another isp. get unlock code from current isp, install odin 3.14.1 and install any isp firmware you want from https://galaxyfirmware.com/model/SM-T307U/ I had an at&t branded with android9, and now i am running wind/freedom android11 firmware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi, thnx for the useful info. Did you have trouble getting the unlock code from at&t? Where did you enter that code? A specific app on the at&t rom I'm guessing?
Getting a sprint version of this device, but want to use it t-mobile. Have read that just factory reset device and use odin to flash other firmware would work, does that sound feasible to you? I'm kind of doubting that but have no idea really.
It used to be flashing diff rom would sim unlock, but not anymore I don't think.
thnx for taking the time, so little info for this available.
cheers

No problem with at&t, although i had to impersonate a US location. Start here: https://www.att.com/deviceunlock/unlockstep1
Like I said, vendor unlock, install odin on your pc, use odin to install the desired firmware you downloaded.
The firmware should boot up, but maybe the radio bands are different between the two isp's? and therefore the LTE part of the tablet may not work. i don't care since I don't install a sim card, just use it on wifi.

Thanks a lot for the info guys. For anyone else reading, I used 'T307UVLS6CUH1' (BMC) - and it is unbranded and doesn't have a ton of bloatware.
Also, since there are so few users on this thing, will also drop that I made a stand for it here:
Galaxy Tab A Stand by xnappo
This is a horizontal stand for the Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.4 (2020). Admittedly it is a bit specific because of the not-so-popular tablet and the use of a NetDot Gen10 magnetic USB cable. One could use this with USB-C directly - but I do really recommend that (likely stress on USB port). You...
www.thingiverse.com
xnappo

Hello,
I got unlocked ATT SM-T307UZNAATT from eBay.
My provider is Red Pocket, and I have ATT-compatible SIM.
When I try to place a call - ATT window appears and askes to log in to ATT account or create one.
How could I place calls?
Would appreciate any help!

xnappo said:
Thanks a lot for the info guys. For anyone else reading, I used 'T307UVLS6CUH1' (BMC) - and it is unbranded and doesn't have a ton of bloatware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How is the speed/lag? This tablet is mega slow, but I was wondering if I loaded different firmware (currently on AT&T) that it might help, since it can't be rooted.
My 8-yr old rooted Galaxy Tab S 8.4 is better than this thing, but alas a few apps won't run on 32-bit architecture. I think I will relegate this AT&T "brick" to my exercise bike for an entertainment interface.

kodiak799 said:
How is the speed/lag? This tablet is mega slow, but I was wondering if I loaded different firmware (currently on AT&T) that it might help, since it can't be rooted.
My 8-yr old rooted Galaxy Tab S 8.4 is better than this thing, but alas a few apps won't run on 32-bit architecture. I think I will relegate this AT&T "brick" to my exercise bike for an entertainment interface.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Meh - no better. It is pretty ridiculous - I was very happy with my 2015 Galaxy Tab S2 8.0 - but it started crashing all the time. This one is slower, thicker, lower resolution, and heavier! 32 GB really isn't enough storage either.
It is super annoying there are not any good 8 inch Android tablets. The Huawei M6 8.4 looks okay, but being in the US it is a bit of a pain to get.

xnappo said:
Meh - no better. It is pretty ridiculous - I was very happy with my 2015 Galaxy Tab S2 8.0 - but it started crashing all the time. This one is slower, thicker, lower resolution, and heavier! 32 GB really isn't enough storage either.
It is super annoying there are not any good 8 inch Android tablets. The Huawei M6 8.4 looks okay, but being in the US it is a bit of a pain to get.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The only great 8" tablet is the Lenovo Legion Y700, running SD870 with 12gb ram. 2560x1600, but IPS and not OLED.
I own the Tab S 8.4 (2014), the Tab A 8.4 (2020) and the Y700 (2021, 8.8").
Tab A is terrible.
It's painfully slow.
It needs root.
It has the same RAM as a tablet 6 YEARS older than it, with LOWER resolution and ! much worse performance. I wish it could be fixed.... Android 10 Lineage is out for Tab S 8.4.

kodiak799 said:
How is the speed/lag? This tablet is mega slow, but I was wondering if I loaded different firmware (currently on AT&T) that it might help, since it can't be rooted.
My 8-yr old rooted Galaxy Tab S 8.4 is better than this thing, but alas a few apps won't run on 32-bit architecture. I think I will relegate this AT&T "brick" to my exercise bike for an entertainment interface.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have done quite a few mods/tweaks to system/Global/Secure settings and also disabled Gaming Optimization Service (GOS) via Alliance Sheild X, it has made a MASSIVE difference. This device's (SM-T307U) performance is being HEAVILY limited by software-based restrictions. Most of which can be disabled without root. I can go into more detail as to how ive sped up this device if anyone is interested.
NOTE - If someone has the ATT version and can drop the .IMG or Firmware .zip that'd be awesome.
Ill keep trying to find a way to root this device until i get a new one, if anyone else has any success, DM me.

K0mraid3 said:
I have done quite a few mods/tweaks to system/Global/Secure settings and also disabled Gaming Optimization Service (GOS) via Alliance Sheild X
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've already deleted, turned-off and disabled everything I can. It's a good bit snappier, but still a dog.
I actually have 2, so I may play around with deleting/disabling apps via ADB. But it's not battery drain, which with some securetask special permissions I've gotten it to SIP power while the screen is off (varies, as low as 2% per day up to about 6-7%).
I checked the usual sources and couldn't find any AT&T image files.

kodiak799 said:
I've already deleted, turned-off and disabled everything I can. It's a good bit snappier, but still a dog.
I actually have 2, so I may play around with deleting/disabling apps via ADB. But it's not battery drain, which with some securetask special permissions I've gotten it to SIP power while the screen is off (varies, as low as 2% per day up to about 6-7%).
I checked the usual sources and couldn't find any AT&T image files.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah this this is good on power, it is just severely limited. Judging from similar devices with the same exynos processor, there's got to be something holding it back. I again recommend using SetEdit or something similar to modify some params in the settings tables. The line I highlighted is in both this tablet and my Galaxy S22 & S21. I also found a param in there called "Enhanced CPU responsiveness" which was set to off, after turning that on, I noticed a massive gain in my tablet.
Also worth noting is I added the line "Allow_more_heat_value" with a value of "30" and it allows all cores to boot to max.

K0mraid3 said:
I again recommend using SetEdit or something similar to modify some params in the settings tables.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll have to give this a shot. I wouldn't think AT&T throttled the CPU, which means Sammie did it for some reason. Probably to hit some sort of battery life benchmark. Or maybe it caused instability in some devices. But being a mid-tier processor you wouldn't expect that it needed to be throttled.
I believe Sammie is giving up on the Exynos processors. I bet they had issues on this tablet, said "screw it" and just **** this out with a throttled cpu.

kodiak799 said:
I'll have to give this a shot. I wouldn't think AT&T throttled the CPU, which means Sammie did it for some reason. Probably to hit some sort of battery life benchmark. Or maybe it caused instability in some devices. But being a mid-tier processor you wouldn't expect that it needed to be throttled.
I believe Sammie is giving up on the Exynos processors. I bet they had issues on this tablet, said "screw it" and just **** this out with a throttled cpu.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's 100% a Samsung related throttle. From my understanding, it's done because they use many of the same parts/processors in various devices, so as a way to control device specific performances, they set limitations. For example, this tablet has the same processor as some of their other "Higher-end" models (if I'm not mistaken), so to keep this tablet from outperforming the others, it's limited. I'm sure there are other reasons, like the battery benchmark bit that you mentioned too.
But yeah. This is 100% a Samsung based throttling.

K0mraid3 said:
I have done quite a few mods/tweaks to system/Global/Secure settings and also disabled Gaming Optimization Service (GOS) via Alliance Sheild X, it has made a MASSIVE difference. This device's (SM-T307U) performance is being HEAVILY limited by software-based restrictions. Most of which can be disabled without root. I can go into more detail as to how ive sped up this device if anyone is interested.
NOTE - If someone has the ATT version and can drop the .IMG or Firmware .zip that'd be awesome.
Ill keep trying to find a way to root this device until i get a new one, if anyone else has any success, DM me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I’d be interested in how you tweaked this tablet to function better.

K0mraid3 said:
I have done quite a few mods/tweaks to system/Global/Secure settings and also disabled Gaming Optimization Service (GOS) via Alliance Sheild X, it has made a MASSIVE difference. This device's (SM-T307U) performance is being HEAVILY limited by software-based restrictions. Most of which can be disabled without root. I can go into more detail as to how ive sped up this device if anyone is interested.
NOTE - If someone has the ATT version and can drop the .IMG or Firmware .zip that'd be awesome.
Ill keep trying to find a way to root this device until i get a new one, if anyone else has any success, DM me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you please share the mods/tweaks you've done?

I have one of these purely for its size, I travel over Europe and as the seating space is limited the smaller the better. I am running the Canadian Wind software but if anyone can give me a run through on disabling apps/services to speed up a bit that would be helpful.
I am going to buy the Lenovo Legion Y700 but only when a global version with LTE is available.
Cheers
Nick

Why is the Samsung ecosystem such garbage?!?!

Mini-rant
OK, so I have to rant (just briefly) about the whole state of Samsung phones at the moment. Basically, we spend gobs of money on expensive devices and get locked down pre-loaded junk in return. Oh, they are physically impressive, have good specs, and are aesthetically nice gadgets. But would you spend $1600 bucks on a new laptop that came with software you couldn’t remove and could only be upgraded for the next 4 years?!?!
I have wanted to experiment with LineageOS for years. I bought a used Samsung S8+ in 2018 and quickly found out that LineageOS was a no go because Samsung locks the bootloaders on all US and Canadian models. So, that was never going to happen unless some guru found a hack.
Now, five years later, I went out of my way to find a Global/European S10+ (an SM-G975F) specifically so that I could install LineageOS. Now, I managed to do that easily enough. But now I am stuck with a phone that has poor reception and slow LTE speeds because it is missing LTE bands used in Canada (i.e. the SM-G975F uses different bands than the SM-G975W).
So here we are… making tradeoffs again.
And while I like fiddling with things like this, I have to wonder... why are we here in the first place? I just want a phone that doesn’t come preloaded with junk that I don’t want. I don’t want Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, TikTok or even Office 365 pre-installed and non-removable. It is like moving into a new house and finding out that the builder picked out furniture for the living room and, while you can push it off to the side and cover it with a blanket, you can never actually remove it. Why is the builder picking out furniture for me in the first place?
Some will say they like the furniture the builder picked. Most will say they don’t hate it or that they found a way to cover it up sufficiently that they don’t really notice it anymore. That isn’t really the point though, is it?
LineageOS on the other hand comes with nothing that it shouldn’t. Oh, and you can have LineageOS if you like (if you stand on your head and find a way to order a phone from another market) but then you have crummy reception forever. Oh, and when you are done you are a 2nd class citizen who can't use the NFC chip on his/her phone to pay for things because you were a "bad person" who found a way to remove the builder's sofa from your living room.
Oh, there are tricks… download this tool or that… but some don’t work anymore because of update XYZ…
Why can’t I just turn on the LTE bands I need??!?! Like, seriously, why not?!?!
Or better yet, why doesn’t my phone do it for me when it sees the Bell SIM card?!?!
Whose phone is this anyway?!?!
The state of Samsung phones in North America is garbage. Full stop. Pure garbage. No, I am not being too harsh.
1) All phones should come with basic firmware that makes the phone work and nothing else. The phone should not be used as an on-ramp into whichever ecosystem is paying the manufacturer more. OEM apps (i.e. Samung Calculator, Samsung DeX, etc.) are fine but no 3rd party junk like Facebook and Instagram. That is what the store is for.
2) All bootloaders should be unlockable and re-lockable once custom firmware is loaded if that firmware is itself signed. No "tripping Knox" or this nonsense.
3) All radio/LTE/carrier settings should be accessible and customizable with easily selectable presets for major carriers worldwide.
Anything else is a closed ecosystem that doesn't respect your basic property rights.
OK, done ranting... Maybe someone from Samsung will notice and maybe it will make a difference.
Best regards,
The Fish

I run two stock N10+'s, a N975U and a N975U1.
Running on Android 9* and 10 respectively. Neither have had their firmware upgraded. I use Package Disabler to block about 70-80 apks and settings are heavily optimized. Both run fast, stable and fullfill their mission with almost no issues and little maintenance. Excellent SOT and standby time.
Both are compatible with AT&T and as such there are no reception issues. You check and verify this before you purchase. Slam the sim card in and they're good to go. Once optimized and running well, don't upgrade firmware or update apps and it will run fine for years. Don't do the above and you will need to find work arounds... if they exist.
Current load on this N10+ will be 3yo this June. No malware during that time. Still looks, feels and runs like new. Only repair has been a battery. After a steep learning curve I'm very pleased with these devices. They are still a joy to use. However I can't say the same for the proceeding Samsung flagships and will never own one of them for a litany of reasons*.
Samsung phones with/in this SOC/generation can run well in capable hands, stock, if used as described.
*has last Android 9 firmware update
**lol, don't get me started

blackhawk said:
Neither have had their firmware upgraded. I use Package Disabler to block about 70-80 apks and settings are heavily optimized. Both run fast, stable and fullfill their mission with almost no issues and little maintenance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This kind of proves my point. I am not saying there isn't a way to get your Samsung phone running the way you want it. I am saying that the hoops we have to jump through and the tradeoffs we have to make are unacceptable.
Why do you have to use Package Disabler to block about 70-80 apks?!?! Why should you have to block *any* APKs at all?
Why do you have to stick with old, outdated firmware? Why do you have to make this tradeoff? Why do we have to have a hostile relationship with Samsung?
Why can't we have a nice phone, no bloatware, no junk, no apps we don't want. Get updates for a reasonable amount of time (i.e. till the hardware no longer supports it)?
blackhawk said:
Both are compatible with AT&T and as such there are no reception issues. You check and verify this before you purchase. Slam the sim card in and they're good to go.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure. And I knew ahead of time when I purchased the Global S10+ (the SM-G975F) that it didn't support all the same LTE bands as the Canadian model (the SM-G975W). But again, I had to make tradeoffs because I wanted to run LineageOS. Again, why do we have to choose between two crummy options?!?! Where are the good options?!?
I am daring to imagine a world where this is better. Really, we used to have phones locked to service providers and 5-year contracts. Those were the bad old days. But these days right now (with the bloatware, etc.) are also not great. It reminds me of the Windows XP era of PCs where you would buy a new PC and be prompted to sign up for 100 different services upon initial bootup. Only difference then was you could re-install the operating system on your PC and free yourself from the OEM bloatware. But now, with phones, they make even that impossible with locked bootloaders.
Basically, if I could unlock the bootloader of a Canadian SM-G975W that would be ideal. Any why isn't it like that anyway?!?! Isn't that the way it should be to begin with?
Locked bootloaders with no option to unlock should be illegal.
The Fish

thefish123 said:
This kind of proves my point. I am not saying there isn't a way to get your Samsung phone running the way you want it. I am saying that the hoops we have to jump through and the tradeoffs we have to make are unacceptable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm a pragmatist, I use what works.
thefish123 said:
Why do you have to use Package Disabler to block about 70-80 apks?!?! Why should you have to block *any* APKs at all?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's only blocking what I consider bloatware. 10 or 15 of those apks are apps I installed but chose to kept disabled 99% of the time.
thefish123 said:
Why do you have to stick with old, outdated firmware? Why do you have to make this tradeoff? Why do we have to have a hostile relationship with Samsung?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's your choice to upgrade and there's no reason to upgrade if the firmware is fulfilling its mission if you're running Android 9 or higher. If you lack wherewithal you pay a price...
thefish123 said:
Why can't we have a nice phone, no bloatware, no junk, no apps we don't want. Get updates for a reasonable amount of time (i.e. till the hardware no longer supports it)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Updates and upgrades aren't needed on an optimized device that's running well. New phones with the newest firmware are running like crap in case you didn't notice. Very little speed increase in most routine activities and horrible SOT on most.
thefish123 said:
Sure. And I knew ahead of time when I purchased the Global S10+ (the SM-G975F) that it didn't support all the same LTE bands as the Canadian model (the SM-G975W). But again, I had to make tradeoffs because I wanted to run LineageOS. Again, why do we have to choose between two crummy options?!?! Where are the good options?!?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well you knew there be connectivity issues and that should have flagged it. Custom roms have custom problems with a limited user/support base.
thefish123 said:
I am daring to imagine a world where this is better. Really, we used to have phones locked to service providers and 5-year contracts. Those were the bad old days. But these days right now (with the bloatware, etc.) are also not great. It reminds me of the Windows XP era of PCs where you would buy a new PC and be prompted to sign up for 100 different services upon initial bootup. Only difference then was you could re-install the operating system on your PC and free yourself from the OEM bloatware. But now, with phones, they make even that impossible with locked bootloaders.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not that bad if you shop smart. I bought out my AT&T N10+ at 2 years. It's almost identical to my carrier unlocked variant. I want the boot loader locked for security. No way I'm touching the firmware as these are premium flagships that run extremely well as is. I have very little to gain and lots to lose... including time.
thefish123 said:
Basically, if I could unlock the bootloader of a Canadian SM-G975W that would be ideal. Any why isn't it like that anyway?!?! Isn't that the way it should be to begin with?
Locked bootloaders with no option to unlock should be illegal.
The Fish
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You buy Samsung flagships for the premium hardware and then work within the framework that's available and what works best for you. You can root the Exynos variants but their hardware is almost always inferior to the Snaps. Consequences.
At this point both Samsung and Android newest products are so out of line that they are unusable to me. I don't care what they do, screw them. I'm in a holding pattern for 3+ more years happily using my N10+'s... I don't care. All my issues are worked out because I threw time at them to do so and I'm very satisfied with the outcome.
In 3+ years I will reevaluate the situation and decide what to do. Right now as things stand I don't reccomend any new Samsung's or anything Android version above Android 10. Unfortunately I have no easy solutions for you other than what I did. Even that isn't simple fix but it's a zero risk fix. I refuse to risk damaging these N10+'s by mucking with their firmware unless its needed for repair.

blackhawk said:
Well you knew there be connectivity issues and that should have flagged it. Custom roms have custom problems with a limited user/support base.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The reason I purchased this specific model was so that I could run a custom ROM. But the connectivity issues are not caused by the custom rom. They are caused by the fact that I am using a phone designed for a different market where different LTE bands are used.
And yes, I knew that ahead of time. And I am not regretting that. But you are missing the point. The radio in my phone is perfectly capable of using the LTE bands that my carrier uses. So why shouldn't there be a straightforward way to enable them?
What if I used to live in Europe and moved to Canada? Should I be forced to buy a new phone just because Samsung doesn't let me change LTE bands? Or if I travel between Europe and Canada on business then I just have to suffer with crummy reception?
My point is one of ownership, property rights.

thefish123 said:
The reason I purchased this specific model was so that I could run a custom ROM. But the connectivity issues are not caused by the custom rom. They are caused by the fact that I am using a phone designed for a different market where different LTE bands are used.
And yes, I knew that ahead of time. And I am not regretting that. But you are missing the point. The radio in my phone is perfectly capable of using the LTE bands that my carrier uses. So why shouldn't there be a straightforward way to enable them?
What if I used to live in Europe and moved to Canada? Should I be forced to buy a new phone just because Samsung doesn't let me change LTE bands? Or if I travel between Europe and Canada on business then I just have to suffer with crummy reception?
My point is one of ownership, property rights.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Connectivity is paramount. Regardless of what your user rights should be, you need to work within the limits of the options available. The square peg round hole thing...
You may be able to enable those bands and that's probably where you should be directing your energy. I purposely try to avoid having to do that as much as possible and never had to. You dove down the rabbit hole, hopefully it's not too deep. Try looking at the hidden phone user settings first... I guess.

blackhawk said:
Connectivity is paramount. Regardless of what your user rights should be, you need to work within the limits of the options available. The square peg round hole thing...
You may be able to enable those bands and that's probably where you should be directing your energy. I purposely try to avoid having to do that as much as possible and never had to. You dove down the rabbit hole, hopefully it's not too deep. Try looking at the hidden phone user settings first... I guess.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I agree. Being a phone is the most important thing that a phone does. And I am directing my energies in that direction as well. But in the process, it occures to me that a messed-up antagonistic anti-customer ecosystem this whole thing is. We would *never* accept this from a computer company, a car manufacturer, or a home builder. Yet, for some reason, we accept it from phone makers like Samsung and that we need to work within these [artificially imposed] limits.
Anyway, yes, there used to be a hidden phone menu (why hidden?) that would have let me enable the bands that I need. But Samsung removed it sometime last year with an update. Again, why?!?!
I'll keep looking. I'm sure I will figure out something in time inspite of Samsung, not because of them.
The Fish

What OS version are you on?
The band selections are probably still there although means of access may have changed.
My knowledge in this area is very limited. The sim card always configured it perfectly for me.
Best to check with your carrier to be sure that phone model is on their white list.
You could try seeing if someone help you from your carrier tech support...sometimes you get lucky if you try enough.

blackhawk said:
What OS version are you on?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am running LineageOS 19.1.
blackhawk said:
The band selections are probably still there although means of access may have changed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The band selection app is categorically *not* there anymore because it A) it was part of the Samsung firmware and B) even if I was on Samsung firmware it wouldn't be there anymore either because Samsung removed it.
There used to be a tool you could download that would allow you to access the "hidden" band selection app. But it stopped working because Samsung removed the hidden app altogeather. Like I said in my original post on this thread "Oh, there are tricks… download this tool or that… but some don’t work anymore because of update XYZ…"
My point is that the whole nonsense of disabled bands and locked bootloaders is infuriating. I is like buying a computer that can only access the internet at full speed in Europe and if you fly to Canada and use it there you get penalized with 1/2 speed. Oh, and even through you could change it with the flip of a switch that switch is buried, disabled, hidden behind locked doors.
The Google Pixel 7 Pro has all the bands turned on (i.e. there is one phone for the whole world) and the boot loader is unlocked. Just saying...
At some point I will probably prevail in getting the bands I need turned on. And then I will likely be very happy with this phone for the next 5+ years. But none of that changes the fact that this anti-consumer predatory behavior on the part of Samsung is unacceptable.
The Fish