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Simple poll, for those of us in the US, what carrier are you using your 6P on?
Right now I'm primarily using mine on Verizon, but also have a T-Mobile pre-paid SIM that I swap back and forth for testing.
Other - Project Fi in Southeast Michigan and loving it. Far better than Sprint (by that I mean just Sprint alone).
Carrier Selection
I am on Sprint, and honestly its been pretty smooth sailing. Even getting the phone up and running wasn't particularly hard either. Solid LTE in my neck of the woods.
I'm on Verizon because neither of the new Nexus phones support VoLTE or HD voice on AT&T. I live in a city so any of the four majors were viable options locally. My problem is that I do a lot of traveling to rural Appalachia and so I need one of the big boys if I want to be covered wherever I go.
Also, Verizon has been embracing unlocked devices of late (Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Moto X Pure, non-VZW-purchased Nexus 6, SIM-Free iPhone 6 and 6S bought from Apple). That combined with it not restricting VoLTE and HD voice made Verizon an easy choice.
Sent from my Galaxy Tab S2 using Tapatalk
oldblue910 said:
I'm on Verizon because neither of the new Nexus phones support VoLTE or HD voice on AT&T. I live in a city so any of the four majors were viable options locally. My problem is that I do a lot of traveling to rural Appalachia and so I need one of the big boys if I want to be covered wherever I go.
Also, Verizon has been embracing unlocked devices of late (Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Moto X Pure, non-VZW-purchased Nexus 6, SIM-Free iPhone 6 and 6S bought from Apple). That combined with it not restricting VoLTE and HD voice made Verizon an easy choice.
Sent from my SM-T817V using Tapatalk
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i wouldn't say they've been embracing them. their hand was forced with the implementation of 4G. i haven't seen VZW update their image database with the latest models of carrier unlocked phones, so IMO they're not exactly "embracing" this idea.
on Sprint .. suprisingly connection has been better than it was with previous Note 4. Not getting super speed or anything but seems fast enough for majority of data stuff. Would like to try Project Fi but it would be more expensive going that route since I use too much data
uodii said:
Other - Project Fi in Southeast Michigan and loving it. Far better than Sprint (by that I mean just Sprint alone).
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I knew I forgot something...
Can a mod add Project Fi as an option?
T-Mobile... Solid signal quality in my area so I have their unlimited plan. Still annoyed with the lack of band 12 however, especially as I travel to Indy often.
640k said:
i wouldn't say they've been embracing them. their hand was forced with the implementation of 4G. i haven't seen VZW update their image database with the latest models of carrier unlocked phones, so IMO they're not exactly "embracing" this idea.
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Click to collapse
AT&T and T-Mobile don't have images of unlocked phones either, with the odd exception here or there. And my Verizon account does show a picture of an iPhone 6S Plus for my SIM-free one that I bought from Apple (which is a different model and IMEI number set than the one Verizon sells). But, you're right, my Nexus 6P just shows up as "Huawei - H1511" with a generic device picture. A picture isn't what matters, though. What matters is that Verizon added the IMEI numbers for the 6P and 5X within a week or two of launch. That's huge for them. Considering where Verizon was even 2 years ago on the idea of unlocked phones vs. where they are now, they've taken a lot of strides. Even Sprint allows all of the same unlocked devices that Verizon does now. Sure, the FCC rules that Verizon agreed to in order to purchase those C block licenses was key in all this, but that doesn't necessarily make what I said any less true.
In the end, I think what's happening is that Verizon and Sprint are realizing that if the phone works on the network and someone wants to give them their money, they should allow the phone and take the money.
Sammaul said:
T-Mobile... Solid signal quality in my area so I have their unlimited plan. Still annoyed with the lack of band 12 however, especially as I travel to Indy often.
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according to DL, its on the way.
http://www.droid-life.com/2015/11/16/nexus-6p-t-mobile-band-12-lte/
---------- Post added at 11:47 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:44 AM ----------
oldblue910 said:
AT&T and T-Mobile don't have images of unlocked phones either, with the odd exception here or there. And my Verizon account does show a picture of an iPhone 6S Plus for my SIM-free one that I bought from Apple. But, you're right, my Nexus 6P just shows up as "Huawei - H1511" with a generic device picture. A picture isn't what matters, though. What matters is that Verizon added the IMEI numbers for the 6P and 5X within a week or two of launch. That's huge for them. Considering where Verizon was even 2 years ago on the idea of unlocked phones vs. where they are now, they've taken a lot of strides. Sure, the FCC rules that they agreed to in order to purchase those C block licenses was key in all this, but that doesn't necessarily make what I said any less true.
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i bought my '13 Moto Xs as carrier devices. one was from Moto Maker and one direct from VZW. even back then, the idea of a carrier unlocked VZW device was few and far between. so happy to be out of the "we'll update your device when we feel like it" type mentality.
heck, i remember people used to choose their carrier based on device availability. the whole carrier exclusive things was a big PITA and i won't miss one bit of it. i can't wait for TV to catch on.
640k said:
according to DL, its on the way.
http://www.droid-life.com/2015/11/16/nexus-6p-t-mobile-band-12-lte/
---------- Post added at 11:47 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:44 AM ----------
i bought my '13 Moto Xs as carrier devices. one was from Moto Maker and one direct from VZW. even back then, the idea of a carrier unlocked VZW device was few and far between. so happy to be out of the "we'll update your device when we feel like it" type mentality.
heck, i remember people used to choose their carrier based on device availability. the whole carrier exclusive things was a big PITA and i won't miss one bit of it. i can't wait for TV to catch on.
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Sweet thank you for the link.
oldblue910 said:
In the end, I think what's happening is that Verizon and Sprint are realizing that if the phone works on the network and someone wants to give them their money, they should allow the phone and take the money.
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go in before the edit.
i think the reality tells a different story. if carriers still had the power to lock you in to their device/contract, they would continue to do so. cable companies lock you in to their own devices by restricting/encrypting the signal. once upon a time, all you needed was a tuner and an internet connection and you could get pretty much everything without paying them to "rent" their boxes.
even vehicle manufacturers are trying to "lock" you in to their infotainment systems by making them non-replaceable with non-standard components.
640k said:
go in before the edit.
i think the reality tells a different story. if carriers still had the power to lock you in to their device/contract, they would continue to do so. cable companies lock you in to their own devices by restricting/encrypting the signal. once upon a time, all you needed was a tuner and an internet connection and you could get pretty much everything without paying them to "rent" their boxes.
even vehicle manufacturers are trying to "lock" you in to their infotainment systems by making them non-replaceable with non-standard components.
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Well, yeah, but again, the fact that they WOULD do it is kind-of immaterial. They're not doing it. They're going the other way. The reasons for it aren't really terribly important. But yes, unchecked, companies will always try to lock you into their products and services. It's been happening for centuries. That's the art of making a profit.
Is there really a different marshmallow update for moto pure that's on t mobile ? That's why I bought an unlocked phone to start with. T mobile has always been bad about updates. Need answers please
No, update should be the same, only reason we haven't gotten it yet on T-Mobile is because T-Mobile hasn't approved/certified VoLTE/Band 12/etc for their network.
gamer765 said:
No, update should be the same, only reason we haven't gotten it yet on T-Mobile is because T-Mobile hasn't approved/certified VoLTE/Band 12/etc for their network.
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What's the implication of that for us here..would you install it by removing SIM & download over Wi-Fi or are you waiting for a more official rollout to T-mobile (or not installing it for other reasons people are complaining about like Wi-Fi+browser+call network issues)?
MM is running great for me. Sideloaded it when it was first posted as a soak test. That update was apparently for Verizon/Sprint users but look at the update being rolled out to AT&T users, its the same as the soak test. Either T-Mobile certifies the current update and we end up getting the same exact update as everyone else, or T-Mobile tells Motorola it doesn't meet their requirements and Motorola rolls out a new build with the specifications set by T-Mobile, which Verizon and all other carrier users will get also since the builds are not carrier specific and neither is the device.
gamer765 said:
MM is running great for me. Sideloaded it when it was first posted as a soak test. That update was apparently for Verizon/Sprint users but look at the update being rolled out to AT&T users, its the same as the soak test. Either T-Mobile certifies the current update and we end up getting the same exact update as everyone else, or T-Mobile tells Motorola it doesn't meet their requirements and Motorola rolls out a new build with the specifications set by T-Mobile, which Verizon and all other carrier users will get also since the builds are not carrier specific and neither is the device.
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Hmm so you've been running MM for weeks on MXP on T-Mobile with no issues & worst case scenario everyone would get another update later that meets T-Mobile requirements so no reason not to install?
What about the people complaining about slow browser performance-Wi-Fi-call-network issues?
https://motorola-global-portal.cust...prod_answer_detail/a_id/109124/p/30,6720,9541
https://motorola-global-portal.custhelp.com/app/product_page/faqs/p/30,6720,9541/#/how_do_i
-Thnx for your feedback
My browser works fine. I rarely get any issues and if there is any, it's just slight lag on this website. WiFi and calling is fine for me. I do get band 12 when I'm at work in certain areas but I'm on band 4 99% of the time
gamer765 said:
My browser works fine. I rarely get any issues and if there is any, it's just slight lag on this website. WiFi and calling is fine for me. I do get band 12 when I'm at work in certain areas but I'm on band 4 99% of the time
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So you have no regrets.. good to read.
I mainly use Boat+floating+Chrome browsers but occasionally use others..any ideas why people are reporting browser issues & you experience a slight lag only on this website?
Why is T-Mobile taking so long to certify the update?
Still no t mobile update. Thinking about pulling sim and doing update. But if and when t mobile certifies it will it update again any thoughts ?
Has the LG V20 US996 received any official OS-security updates, what about carrier models?
Can or can not Wi-Fi calling be enabled on the unlocked LG V20 US996 while the T-Mobile variant H918 Wi-Fi calling would be there by default & could be unlocked for use on other carriers?
Both http://www.lg.com/us/cell-phones/lg-US996-Unlocked-v20-titan & http://www.lg.com/us/cell-phones/lg-H918-Titan-v20 list Wi-Fi calling with uncertain fine print..
" Wi-Fi Calling** Use Wi-Fi to improve voice and data coverage
** Wireless service required. Product features subject to change. Features based on carrier program availability. Additional charges may apply. "
- Thanks for clarifying this with some real life experience
Bump, I would like to know about the Wifi calling as well.
I have yet to get it working on my unlocked H910 (T Mobile carrier).
Wifi calling and VoLTE features are controlled by the carrier and they will not enable these features on non-carrier devices. I'm assuming it's done this way to encourage people to buy their carrier locked versions.
McNutnut said:
Wifi calling and VoLTE features are controlled by the carrier and they will not enable these features on non-carrier devices. I'm assuming it's done this way to encourage people to buy their carrier locked versions.
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Works great on my unlocked Nexus 6P with a prepaid T-Mobile SIM (e.g. including on Airplane mode with only Wi-Fi enabled )..:good:
BTW, :laugh: name McNutnut
SMARTPHONEPC said:
Works great on my unlocked Nexus 6P with a prepaid T-Mobile SIM (e.g. including on Airplane mode with only Wi-Fi enabled )..:good:
BTW, :laugh: name McNutnut
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Did T-mobile sell a T-mobile branded 6P? I imagine they'd only disallow these features if they had a carrier locked version to sell of their own.
Thanks BTW
SMARTPHONEPC said:
Has the LG V20 US996 received any official OS-security updates, what about carrier models?
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I don't know about Wifi calling, but here is the latest from LG as of yesterday,
-----------------------
This is a staff of LG Product Security Response Team(LG PSRT)
As you know, the latest patch was released at the last December.
Unfortunately, there is no further schedule for V20 (US996), but our dedicated team is still discussing about next patch schedule.
-----------------------
LG's support for this phone has been horrible, Google's monthly security updates totally ignored.
I am shopping now for another brand that will update unlocked phones.
I like the features of the V20, but I am done waiting for LG to support it.
I'm running version 10h of the OS on my US996 which is on the April 1st Android security patch. I'm not sure if this update, or the previous ones, were offered via OTA. The images just kinda seem to pop up occasionally. See https://lg-firmwares.com/lg-us996-firmwares/ for the list. They seem to be making some updates, I'm just not sure where they're formally releasing them...
McNutnut said:
Did T-mobile sell a T-mobile branded 6P? I imagine they'd only disallow these features if they had a carrier locked version to sell of their own.
Thanks BTW
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I remember checking out the original Nexus 6 in a T-Mobile Store but it lost out when I compared it to the Samsung Note 4 which I bought instead. I think Google sold the Nexus 6P unlocked online only rather than at T-Mobile but Wi-Fi calling is supposed to be built into Android so perhaps when inserting a T-Mobile SIM it should become available when enabled in settings?
I also have an unlocked Moto X Pure that I could test but there were some issues with a prior update that I avoided installing but perhaps that's been worked out now that it should have Android 7. I'll look into that but anyone here has the LG V20 US996 or the T-Mobile variant H918 with Wi-Fi calling working?
McNutnut said:
I'm running version 10h of the OS on my US996 which is on the April 1st Android security patch. I'm not sure if this update, or the previous ones, were offered via OTA. The images just kinda seem to pop up occasionally. See https://lg-firmwares.com/lg-us996-firmwares/ for the list. They seem to be making some updates, I'm just not sure where they're formally releasing them...
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Did you install your update/s from that link because the download count is somewhat uninspiring..?
daverup said:
I don't know about Wifi calling, but here is the latest from LG as of yesterday,
-----------------------
This is a staff of LG Product Security Response Team(LG PSRT)
As you know, the latest patch was released at the last December.
Unfortunately, there is no further schedule for V20 (US996), but our dedicated team is still discussing about next patch schedule.
-----------------------
LG's support for this phone has been horrible, Google's monthly security updates totally ignored.
I am shopping now for another brand that will update unlocked phones.
I like the features of the V20, but I am done waiting for LG to support it.
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Click to collapse
Unlocked phones which get updated best would be Nexus'-Pixels, my Nexus 6P always gets the latest possible updates.. currently latest stable Build number N2G48B on 7.1.2 security patch level July 5, 2017 with the option for the Android 8 O Beta program.
December Why are some people reporting updates in 2017? How worried are people about older Android security patch levels or are they mainly annoyed about not getting the latest Android builds?
SMARTPHONEPC said:
I remember checking out the original Nexus 6 in a T-Mobile Store but it lost out when I compared it to the Samsung Note 4 which I bought instead. I think Google sold the Nexus 6P unlocked online only rather than at T-Mobile but Wi-Fi calling is supposed to be built into Android so perhaps when inserting a T-Mobile SIM it should become available when enabled in settings?
I also have an unlocked Moto X Pure that I could test but there were some issues with a prior update that I avoided installing but perhaps that's been worked out now that it should have Android 7. I'll look into that but anyone here has the LG V20 US996 or the T-Mobile variant H918 with Wi-Fi calling working?
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AT&T refused to enable Wi-Fi calling for me because the device isn't "certified". I'm pretty sure the phone is perfectly capable of supporting Wi-Fi calling, the carrier just refuses to enable it. Unfortunate :/
SMARTPHONEPC said:
Did you install your update/s from that link because the download count is somewhat uninspiring..?
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Click to collapse
I extract the updated partitions from those update files and flash them via TWRP. You could of course use LG UP (I think) to flash the KDZ, which is a the method used to recover a bricked device, but takes it factory resets. I've run 10f and 10h from that site with no issues on AT&T.
McNutnut said:
AT&T refused to enable Wi-Fi calling for me because the device isn't "certified". I'm pretty sure the phone is perfectly capable of supporting Wi-Fi calling, the carrier just refuses to enable it. Unfortunate :/
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Click to collapse
The AT&T store is where I went to check out their carrier model of the LG V20 because they are closest. T-Mobile network is actually best of all where I'm most often so I use their SIM. T-Mobile I've heard tends to be more relaxed than AT&T about enabling Wi-Fi calling in general but can anyone confirm this &/or anyone with the T-Mobile or AT&T carrier model or US996 confirm Wi-Fi calling ?
McNutnut said:
I extract the updated partitions from those update files and flash them via TWRP. You could of course use LG UP (I think) to flash the KDZ, which is a the method used to recover a bricked device, but takes it factory resets. I've run 10f and 10h from that site with no issues on AT&T.
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Click to collapse
Good job but how long does all that take? Android really is so fragmented..are OTA updates really that difficult to push out like my Nexus 6P gets..why doesn't Google better address all the fragmentation-mess out there?
SMARTPHONEPC said:
Unlocked phones which get updated best would be Nexus'-Pixels, my Nexus 6P always gets the latest possible updates.. currently latest stable Build number N2G48B on 7.1.2 security patch level July 5, 2017 with the option for the Android 8 O Beta program.
December Why are some people reporting updates in 2017? How worried are people about older Android security patch levels or are they mainly annoyed about not getting the latest Android builds?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can do without the latest Android version, but I do want Android monthly security updates.
I've had Nexus phones in the past and will look at the Pixels, or maybe wait for the new Pixel XL.
The Moto Z unlocked has gotten routine security updates, so I'm also looking at one of those or the newer Z2.
Headlines this morning about LG leaking a V30, just make me sad. A nice shiney new LG that will never get a security update.
McNutnut said:
AT&T refused to enable Wi-Fi calling for me because the device isn't "certified". I'm pretty sure the phone is perfectly capable of supporting Wi-Fi calling, the carrier just refuses to enable it. Unfortunate :/
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Click to collapse
Well, you could always use the poor man's wifi calling - Telegram - it works great and you can call anyone in the world for free! (as long as they also have Telegram installed)
The calls are really clear, just like a regular mobile call, and did I mention this is FREE
McNutnut said:
AT&T refused to enable Wi-Fi calling for me because the device isn't "certified". I'm pretty sure the phone is perfectly capable of supporting Wi-Fi calling, the carrier just refuses to enable it. Unfortunate :/
I extract the updated partitions from those update files and flash them via TWRP. You could of course use LG UP (I think) to flash the KDZ, which is a the method used to recover a bricked device, but takes it factory resets. I've run 10f and 10h from that site with no issues on AT&T.
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Click to collapse
So you used the US Cellular Rom. Did it have any bloat? Did you get FM radio?
so i'm assuming my VS995 (verizon) variant phone won't be able to use WIFI calling since i'm currently on a T-Mobile plan ?
guapinoy said:
So you used the US Cellular Rom. Did it have any bloat? Did you get FM radio?
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So far I haven't seen the kdz files on lg-firmwares website contain anything US Cellular specific, even though some of them appear to be indicated for the US Cellular model. There's no carrier bloat (minus LG's) but the FM radio is still not available.
Wow, I'm really embarrassed for LG! One would assume they would update the Unlocked version of the V20 MORE ..because they don't have carriers which have to approve the update. This is Pathetic!!!!
warwagon19792 said:
Wow, I'm really embarrassed for LG! One would assume they would update the Unlocked version of the V20 MORE ..because they don't have carriers which have to approve the update. This is Pathetic!!!!
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What's LG's excuse? Will the US996 or any V20 ever officially get Android 8/O?
I notice in my new US996 a 637.05 MB update Version US99610f mentioned at https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=70431731&postcount=2 , any reason not to update it?
Regarding this thread's subject: I did notice my T-mobile Wi-Fi calling was enabled in QuickShortcutMaker but when I turn on Airplane mode then only Wi-Fi I can't receive calls but if I turn off Airplane mode then only Wi-Fi on (i.e. Mobile data is off in Networks) calls go through so I'll have to test over Wi-Fi where I get no T-Mobile signal but my Nexus 6P does get calls over Wi-Fi in airplane mode with only Wi-Fi enabled..
Also the V20's Wi-Fi hotspot works on my Windows 10 PC only with WPA PSK security but when I try WPA2 PSK my PC says the PIN is wrong while another Android phone can connect with WPA2 without issues (Nexus 6P Wi-Fi hotspot with WPA2 security worked with the same PC)..
Security updates are needed like a fire hose is needed and not providing them puts LG at risk of Class Action Lawsuits if "something" happens IMO based on personal experience working with an expert witness over the years. Not having the updates known creates a target to go after.
https://photos.app.goo.gl/UV2u66UVF7PWUuYD8
Weird, its grayed out for me
Were you able to root it?
A little off topic, but why do people buy the Verizon version when you can buy the Unlocked version for the same price and 0% interest financed?
ackliph said:
A little off topic, but why do people buy the Verizon version when you can buy the Unlocked version for the same price and 0% interest financed?
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Some people don't know, some people have weird trust issues, sometimes the Verizon one is much cheaper.
I wish there were confirmation on this- local Verizon stores have stock while WorstBuy requires shipping or store stock next week.
Nope, picked up a 3a from a Verizon corporate store (asked for clearly white, turns out it slightly purple) and no joy on OEM unlock. Toggle is grayed out and states "Unavailable on carrier-locked devices". Going back tomorrow and hopefully won't get dinged $50 on the return since they gave me the wrong color but I don't think that will play out.
lattosimbaste said:
Nope, picked up a 3a from a Verizon corporate store (asked for clearly white, turns out it slightly purple) and no joy on OEM unlock. Toggle is grayed out and states "Unavailable on carrier-locked devices". Going back tomorrow and hopefully won't get dinged $50 on the return since they gave me the wrong color but I don't think that will play out.
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Click to collapse
Well the bootloader definitely cannot be unlocked if the carrier has it sim carded locked. Carrier issued phone are generally sim card locked by default and the user has to usually request for the device to be sim card unlocked. I still don't believe the Verizon edition will be bootloader unlockable, but seeing that particular message does not confirm one way or another as it appears on every carrier sim card locked device - even those that can be bootloader unlocked once the phone is sim card unlocked.
I can confirm this true, at least in the bestbuy I bought my pixel 3a.
Like I say bought on bestbuy unlocked, when I get home turn on without a sim card and no WiFi, then turn on developer option and there was the beautiful oem unlock available, immediate I turn on and go to fastboot and do the fastboot flashing oem unlock and successful, now I rooted with magisk and button remapper with the active edge remapped.
P.s it was in the latest firmware
i wonder if the method for the orig pixel would work. would be funny if it did. for those wondering https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-xl/how-to/how-to-unlock-bootloader-verizon-pixel-t3796030 i doubt it will, but might be worth trying
So, stupid question, but the Google Store site wasn't completely clear on this...if I buy the unlocked Pixel 3a from Google's site, will it work 100% with Verizon's network? Will it have all of the same LTE bands, for example, or will I see reduced performance compared to the Verizon-locked version? I'm used to the old days where I had to buy one version of a phone for VZW and a different version for AT&T...
Yes, the unlocked 3a works fully on Verizon's LTE bands as well as calling over WiFi and VoLTE. 100% compatible and none of the preinstalled crap.
sn00gan said:
So, stupid question, but the Google Store site wasn't completely clear on this...if I buy the unlocked Pixel 3a from Google's site, will it work 100% with Verizon's network? Will it have all of the same LTE bands, for example, or will I see reduced performance compared to the Verizon-locked version? I'm used to the old days where I had to buy one version of a phone for VZW and a different version for AT&T...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's the same only the differences are that one it's unlockable bootloader(Google) and the other not(verizon).
Both have the same bands and processor, etc.
If you want to make this phone more great and you knowledge about flashing and that stuff buy from Google but if you don't care about that buy the one from verizon and I don't sure but on verizon have very good discounts like 100 bucks more cheap with activation.
pbanj said:
i wonder if the method for the orig pixel would work. would be funny if it did. for those wondering https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-xl/how-to/how-to-unlock-bootloader-verizon-pixel-t3796030 i doubt it will, but might be worth trying
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Click to collapse
Tried it yesterday....lol. no go, cant uninstall the phone apk. Could be named differently I guess.
sd_N said:
Tried it yesterday....lol. no go, cant uninstall the phone apk. Could be named differently I guess.
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Click to collapse
Shame lol. I just checked and the name still seems to be the same
pbanj said:
Shame lol. I just checked and the name still seems to be the same
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Click to collapse
Cant remember what exactly it said when I tried uninstalling the phone apk. Something about the user 0 not found
sn00gan said:
So, stupid question, but the Google Store site wasn't completely clear on this...if I buy the unlocked Pixel 3a from Google's site, will it work 100% with Verizon's network? Will it have all of the same LTE bands, for example, or will I see reduced performance compared to the Verizon-locked version? I'm used to the old days where I had to buy one version of a phone for VZW and a different version for AT&T...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ALUCARD4DEAD said:
It's the same only the differences are that one it's unlockable bootloader(Google) and the other not(verizon).
Both have the same bands and processor, etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, the Google Store version and Verizon version are NOT the same. Almost, but not "just the same with one sim locked". They don't have exactly the same model name and LTE bands.
Verizon Pixel 3a model: G020E
Google Store Pixel 3a model : G020G
The Verizon model miss some LTE bands (14, 29, 30, 71) and miss e-sim support. Maybe Verizon LTE network doesn't use the missing bands and there is no difference with the LTE coverage, but they are not the same.
Source: https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/7158570?hl=en&ref_topic=7530176
I know this is almost a 2 year old thread but just bought a used Verizon 3a because my Pixel died. I have to have a Verizon version because those are the only phones that Page Plus will activate. Anyone know which OTA version they were able to unlock on? Have my doubts any of them will actually work but wanted to know before I update too far. Currently on QQ3A.200605.002.
I know I did not get a response before and have upgrade to the latest April 2021 patch with no success at unlocking. Wondering if anyone has tried using a AT&T sim to try and unlock bootloader? Not sure how the phone knows it is a Verizon phone. The OTAs are for all versions. Wonder if there is something in the code that could be tweaked before install.
Hi guys,
I realize that the main carriers in the US will be dropping the old network protocols in 2022, which means my current V20 will no longer work for voice calls. From what I gather, I'd need to run a stock/stock-based ROM to get VoLTE working, which is a deal breaker for me. I need recent security updates and modern Android releases on my phones.
With that being said, any thoughts on a replacement device this coming year? I will certainly miss the replaceable battery the most. Is there a device you recommend that has a relatively easy battery to replace? Honestly, the phone is used for light browsing, email, etc. Pictures and movies are frequently taken from it, so a good camera is a must. The memory card is paramount today, but unsure how long this can last. A device with an active development history with root access, should it be needed, is required for this replacement.
I've been spoiled with the V20 for years now. I just don't know where to start replacing it. Your opinions are greatly appreciated!
The options in the U.S. for a proper replacement are slim to none, depending on your priorities. I don't know much about how easy it is to replace batteries for newer phones, but I can give you an overview for most of the other stuff:
- Phones with hand-removable batteries: Probably not worth going for at this point. Most have specs that are barely better than the V20 with lower screen resolutions, and spare batteries are much less common to find for them. And half of them are from Europe and therefore have almost zero usable LTE bands in the U.S.
- Phones with non-stock custom ROMs that have VoLTE working in the U.S.: Probably limited to the Google Pixels, Motorola, and OnePlus models. Forget about all LG and Samsung phones here since they both use closed-source proprietary files that makes it pretty much impossible for anyone to figure out how to get VoLTE and other stock features to work on AOSP or LineageOS-type ROMs. And unfortunately, Pixels and the higher end OnePlus phones have no microSD card slots, and Motorola phones haven't been known for top quality cameras in a long time.
- Others: There are also Sony phones, but their higher end models are so expensive that I never bothered looking far into any of them.
So, it looks like you'll have to decide which features are must-haves for you and which are OK to let go in order to widen your options a bit.
C D said:
The options in the U.S. for a proper replacement are slim to none, depending on your priorities. I don't know much about how easy it is to replace batteries for newer phones, but I can give you an overview for most of the other stuff:
- Phones with hand-removable batteries: Probably not worth going for at this point. Most have specs that are barely better than the V20 with lower screen resolutions, and spare batteries are much less common to find for them. And half of them are from Europe and therefore have almost zero usable LTE bands in the U.S.
- Phones with non-stock custom ROMs that have VoLTE working in the U.S.: Probably limited to the Google Pixels, Motorola, and OnePlus models. Forget about all LG and Samsung phones here since they both use closed-source proprietary files that makes it pretty much impossible for anyone to figure out how to get VoLTE and other stock features to work on AOSP or LineageOS-type ROMs. And unfortunately, Pixels and the higher end OnePlus phones have no microSD card slots, and Motorola phones haven't been known for top quality cameras in a long time.
- Others: There are also Sony phones, but their higher end models are so expensive that I never bothered looking far into any of them.
So, it looks like you'll have to decide which features are must-haves for you and which are OK to let go in order to widen your options a bit.
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Thanks for taking the time. I really appreciate the input. Yeah, this is pretty much what I expected. The reason I am leaving the V20, and also a Samsung Note 4 isn't because they no longer work for me, but because of the VoLTE push. It makes me sad. ;(
I have looked at the removable battery options, and to your point, the specs are horrible. I don't think a truly removable battery will work. However, if there's a phone with a non-removable battery that doesn't take an act of God to change, that would be an option.
I do not want to spend hundreds and hundreds of dollars every couple of years for a new device. Custom ROMs have made these devices last years and years. It's also better for the environment. I don't need 20 cores and a TB of RAM in a phone based on my use cases unlike everyone seems to think they do. Without the ability to custom ROM, once the manufacturer ditches the device, it forces one to spend again even though it could last many more years. It seems many aren't really too worried or informed about running a computer in your pocket missing critical security updates. These truths irk the **** out of me!
I wonder if a Pixel would suffice despite the lack of external storage... I know they get updates pretty quickly, are being supported for like 5 years by Google, etc. I think development is pretty active for them too, but I'll have to investigate. The Sony suggestion was a good one to mention, but yeah, ridiculous in price.
I guess I'll start there. If anyone else has other suggestions or advice, I greatly appreciate it. I haven't had to stay up with things because of these wonderful devices and the plethora of options over the years. All good things must come to an end...
I, too, would like to find a more current phone with an easily replaceable battery (pref. without using a heat gun). But it needs to be rootable.
The Galaxy Xcover Pro looked promising (replaceable battery), but isn't rooted.
Wish the Fairphone would come to the states.
Anyone else care to share?
From what I have read, any device that has 3g, phones or other devices - are screwed. All forced upgrade.
Mysticblaze347 said:
From what I have read, any device that has 3g, phones or other devices - are screwed. All forced upgrade.
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Yup, exactly. So, coming from a V20, and based on my loose requirements above, have you any suggestions for a new device?
DaCHeF36 said:
Yup, exactly. So, coming from a V20, and based on my loose requirements above, have you any suggestions for a new device?
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I wish I did. Removable battery and specs is key. Then features. All phones in the US are non removable battery that are 5G able which is required at most if not all carriers. I personally am with Sprint - well now Tmobile. I still have my V20 (out of service). Free downgrade was Samsung A71 5G. It sucks. Decent specs with no OEM Unlock. No current support anywhere to root.
I have been looking but no luck so far.
Mysticblaze347 said:
I wish I did. Removable battery and specs is key. Then features. All phones in the US are non removable battery that are 5G able which is required at most if not all carriers. I personally am with Sprint - well now Tmobile. I still have my V20 (out of service). Free downgrade was Samsung A71 5G. It sucks. Decent specs with no OEM Unlock. No current support anywhere to root.
I have been looking but no luck so far.
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Yeah, North American Samsung phones have locked bootloaders. The only current way to get some of them rooted is if they haven't been updated past a certain date due to anti-rollback (Sounds awfully familiar to us LS997 owners, doesn't it?) and then go through a paid service like this one (you can see the supported devices and required software versions – bootloader version numbers are the 5th digit from the right in the baseband version – in the 2nd post).
My understanding is that our phones (V20) will continue to work for now since they have 4g. Yes, we can also access the 3g band, but my phone rarely switches to it. We should be fine for a while on the V20 on 4g.
PS - That's presuming our phones are stock or near-stock and still have functioning VoLTE / HD calls. Stock Android and A_O (Alpha Omega) ROM has this. I believe these phones are safe to use in 2022 and beyond when 3g drops.
baldybill said:
My understanding is that our phones (V20) will continue to work for now since they have 4g. Yes, we can also access the 3g band, but my phone rarely switches to it. We should be fine for a while on the V20 on 4g.
PS - That's presuming our phones are stock or near-stock and still have functioning VoLTE / HD calls. Stock Android and A_O (Alpha Omega) ROM has this. I believe these phones are safe to use in 2022 and beyond when 3g drops.
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Right, but it also depends on what the carrier supports as AT&T and Verizon use whitelists.
In the U.S., VoLTE support on the American V20 models goes something like this (and of course stock-based ROMs are a must for this):
- H910 gets VoLTE on AT&T and its MVNOs
- H918 gets VoLTE on T-Mobile and its MVNOs
- VS995 gets VoLTE on Verizon and its MVNOs
- US996 may get VoLTE on some of the above. I've gotten it to work on T-Mobile, 1 out of 2 T-Mobile MVNOs (worked on Tracfone's T-Mobile card but not Liberty Wireless), and an AT&T MVNO (Red Pocket's GSMA).
- LS997 is not configured to have VoLTE out of the box, so any LS997 that has been updated past May 2017 will for sure soon be useless in the U.S. for making and receiving phone calls. For the few of us who still have the older rooted LS997 models, I will soon look into installing Alpha Omega ROMs from the US996 to see if VoLTE can get enabled through there since the hardware is likely present, but I'm not getting my hopes up.
baldybill said:
My understanding is that our phones (V20) will continue to work for now since they have 4g. Yes, we can also access the 3g band, but my phone rarely switches to it. We should be fine for a while on the V20 on 4g.
PS - That's presuming our phones are stock or near-stock and still have functioning VoLTE / HD calls. Stock Android and A_O (Alpha Omega) ROM has this. I believe these phones are safe to use in 2022 and beyond when 3g drops.
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I'm not 100% sure about the V20, but I know the Note 4 has 4G, but for data only. It requires calls over 3G on non-stock ROMs. I don't run stock LG ROMs because they are way behind on security updates. Just upgraded to LOS 18.1 giving me security updates from 12/2021. It's much safer.
If you mean that VoLTE will work on a stock-base ROM, you are probably correct. However, that's not an option for me, and in reality, it really shouldn't be for others too! Many, many people are either ignorant to or just don't care about security. There are so many vulnerabilities, including RCE ones, addressed constantly. This is a handheld computer, so it's just like leaving unpatched systems on your network. If you're running Windows 7 still, for example, you're asking to get owned. Bad idea.
Thanks for your feedback though. It is appreciated! If you have any replacement recommendations, I am all ears!
I'll be watching this thread to see where others land, as far as their next device.
Both my wife and I have US996's on Verizon. I'm on A-O Oreo with HD calling enabled. Hers is not on A-O Oreo, hd calling is enabled in the account, but I can't get the toggle in the settings to be "un-greyed". Tried the trick to turn it on and off online, but the page errors out everytime. Guess I'll have to make the time to get her phone flashed to see if that fixes it.
All that aside, I too have been facing the same dilemma as the OP. SD card, root, and straight forward disassembly would be my main needs. IR blaster would be nice. I don't mind replacing a non-removable battery, have disassembled many devices requiring heat.
pistacios said:
I'll be watching this thread to see where others land, as far as their next device.
Both my wife and I have US996's on Verizon. I'm on A-O Oreo with HD calling enabled. Hers is not on A-O Oreo, hd calling is enabled in the account, but I can't get the toggle in the settings to be "un-greyed". Tried the trick to turn it on and off online, but the page errors out everytime. Guess I'll have to make the time to get her phone flashed to see if that fixes it.
All that aside, I too have been facing the same dilemma as the OP. SD card, root, and straight forward disassembly would be my main needs. IR blaster would be nice. I don't mind replacing a non-removable battery, have disassembled many devices requiring heat.
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Sorry to hear you're in the same predicament...
I'm trying to justify my SD requirement these days. Why is it one for you exactly?
DaCHeF36 said:
Sorry to hear you're in the same predicament...
I'm trying to justify my SD requirement these days. Why is it one for you exactly?
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Mainly because if anything happens where I can't access internal phone storage due to hardware failure, at least I know I can salvage data from the SD card externally.
C D said:
Right, but it also depends on what the carrier supports as AT&T and Verizon use whitelists.
In the U.S., VoLTE support on the American V20 models goes something like this (and of course stock-based ROMs are a must for this):
- H910 gets VoLTE on AT&T and its MVNOs
- H918 gets VoLTE on T-Mobile and its MVNOs
- VS995 gets VoLTE on Verizon and its MVNOs
- US996 may get VoLTE on some of the above. I've gotten it to work on T-Mobile, 1 out of 2 T-Mobile MVNOs (worked on Tracfone's T-Mobile card but not Liberty Wireless), and an AT&T MVNO (Red Pocket's GSMA).
- LS997 is not configured to have VoLTE out of the box, so any LS997 that has been updated past May 2017 will for sure soon be useless in the U.S. for making and receiving phone calls. For the few of us who still have the older rooted LS997 models, I will soon look into installing Alpha Omega ROMs from the US996 to see if VoLTE can get enabled through there since the hardware is likely present, but I'm not getting my hopes up.
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Crossing my fingers that my US996 (w/AO Rom) will work with Verizon. So far, I can toggle the "HD Calls" switch in the settings, so I'm hopeful.
If not, I'll prob. use the VS995.
pistacios said:
Mainly because if anything happens where I can't access internal phone storage due to hardware failure, at least I know I can salvage data from the SD card externally.
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That makes perfect sense. BTW, pistachios rock! lol..
baldybill said:
Crossing my fingers that my US996 (w/AO Rom) will work with Verizon. So far, I can toggle the "HD Calls" switch in the settings, so I'm hopeful.
If not, I'll prob. use the VS995.
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My US996 w/A-O on Verizon has made calls over 4gLTE. The only way I'm able to confirm that is if the recipient of the call is also "HD calling", it will show an "HD" icon in green during the call.
Really wish I could figure out WIFI calling. That would probably take flashing a VS995 ROM, and that still is a gamble.
Another wish would be if LG would have just released the propietary files to make it all work with a Lineage based ROM, since they are no longer in the mobile game and have closed the bootloader unlock service as of late November.
Does anyone share concerns over running stock-based software that hasn't been updated for years to continue using these devices? Are you aware of the critical vulnerabilities released monthly for Android OSes? I just want to make sure everyone understands the risks of such an approach.
pistacios said:
Really wish I could figure out WIFI calling. That would probably take flashing a VS995 ROM, and that still is a gamble.
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Wi-Fi calling is heavily carrier-based, and since there never was a universal all-carrier USA V20 model, you almost certainly have to be on VS995 firmware to get it. Another lesser-known thing to try would be changing your US996's IMEI number to another one that still passes Verizon's IMEI check if you happen to have a phone like that around. I cannot openly discuss the method here since it's illegal in some countries (but not the U.S. – more info here) but it's quite simple to do, and you can message me if you need some pointers. This can be done on my LS997 and US996 but not the H918.
DaCHeF36 said:
Does anyone share concerns over running stock-based software that hasn't been updated for years to continue using these devices? Are you aware of the critical vulnerabilities released monthly for Android OSes? I just want to make sure everyone understands the risks of such an approach.
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To me, it mainly depends on what you do on your phone. My usage is likely quite different from yours. You can see my view on this and what my post-V20 daily driver phone has been since September in a similar topic thread on the V20 Subreddit from a few months ago.
And if you want to have a deeper look, you can see most of the stuff of what I've been running on my V20s over here.