Unlocking Bionic (not bootloader) - Motorola Droid Bionic

So I've been doing some research on unlocking the bionic to work on other networks. I've found several websites that clam the bionic can be unlocked, you supply them with your bionics numbers, and they email the unlock codes. This isn't just for the bionic, they support multiple phones. Just curious as to if anyone has tried this with the bionic, or any other phone before I put money into something that doesn't work.
Sent from my DROID BIONIC using XDA App

Don't put your money into it. I used a service and it took them 5 days to get me my code and instructions. I installed the unsupported SIM card like the instructions said, booted the phone and received a message that said the SIM card was from an unknown source, but didn't provide a dialogue box to type in my code like the instructions said it would.
I have been researching how to input that code since, but no luck. I read there was a way to input it using Radiocomm, but I can't get version 11.11.11 to install correctly on my computer and don't know what to select for the Bionic.

Here is Motorola's official spec sheet page for the Droid Bionic: http://developer.motorola.com/products/droid-bionic-xt875
Look very carefully at one particular section
Connectivity
WAN: VOICE BANDS CDMA 800/1900, LTE 13
WAN: DATA BEARERS EVDO Rev. A , LTE
What does this mean for you? It means it's essentially impossible to use the Bionic on anything other than Verizon. The radio on the Bionic has ZERO support any GSM protocol or bands.
If you're lucky, and someone comes up with a method, you might be lucky to use it on a cheapo CDMA regional carrier like Cricket Wireless. Have fun crawling on 3G only.

Well, it sure would be nice to be able to use it on an LTE network overseas with a prepaid SIM card.
Wasn't one of the original selling points of LTE is eventually all phones and carriers supporting the same hardware spec? That's not to say that any given phone will work with any carrier, but at least that's the carrier's choise, not dictacted by completely incompatible technologies, GSM vs CDMA.
It's just sad that as the tech to make everything interoperate is poised to take over the carriers and the governments that regulated them (at least in the US) have no interest letting them them do so.
Funny thing is a large block of LTE spectrum was sold with the caveat that the carriers that won the auction cannot restrict the hardware and software that uses that spectrum. Apparently Verizon is not complying with that law.
http://pocketnow.com/smartphone-news/editorial-are-verizon-lte-data-caps-and-handset-locking-illegal

Even if it were unlocked, you wouldn't be able to use it on an overseas LTE network.

Related

Modify Verizon Droid to work with Sprint

With the recent influx of Droid devices generated by them being handed out to many individuals through Google's developer channels, I imagine I'm not the only one wondering whether or not it would be possible to get service for this device by anyone other than Verizon. I'm hoping that someone can explain to me what it might take to make this possible.
As I understand it, VZW uses both 1900 and 850 while Sprint uses only 1900 with roaming possible on 850. That means the device should be compatible between the two networks from a frequency standpoint. What I'm not sure about is whether any of the software instructions coded into the VZW/Sprint devices are important to the correct operation of the phone on the network, or if they are identical and it only matters which network accepts the device's ESN.
In short:
- Would any software modifications to the device be necessary for appropriate functionality on the Sprint network?
- If so, could those modifications be derived from existing Sprint Android platforms like the Hero/Moment?
I have been given a free Droid, but I have no plan on ever switching to Verizon. It will remain a development only device if I can't modify it to work with my existing Sprint account.
Thanks in advance for any information.
othelil said:
With the recent influx of Droid devices generated by them being handed out to many individuals through Google's developer channels, I imagine I'm not the only one wondering whether or not it would be possible to get service for this device by anyone other than Verizon. I'm hoping that someone can explain to me what it might take to make this possible.
As I understand it, VZW uses both 1900 and 850 while Sprint uses only 1900 with roaming possible on 850. That means the device should be compatible between the two networks from a frequency standpoint. What I'm not sure about is whether any of the software instructions coded into the VZW/Sprint devices are important to the correct operation of the phone on the network, or if they are identical and it only matters which network accepts the device's ESN.
In short:
- Would any software modifications to the device be necessary for appropriate functionality on the Sprint network?
- If so, could those modifications be derived from existing Sprint Android platforms like the Hero/Moment?
I have been given a free Droid, but I have no plan on ever switching to Verizon. It will remain a development only device if I can't modify it to work with my existing Sprint account.
Thanks in advance for any information.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the only way to get this to work is via esn swapping !! and that is illegal!! so.... good luck google it!! sprint will not add esns to there network from other carriers !! verizon does is sometimes but sprint will not do it!! sorry are u willing to sell it?
adrianh85 said:
the only way to get this to work is via esn swapping !! and that is illegal!! so.... good luck google it!! sprint will not add esns to there network from other carriers !! verizon does is sometimes but sprint will not do it!! sorry are u willing to sell it?
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Click to collapse
Illegal, huh? Good 'ol US; the only country that feels the need to so tightly bind our devices to specific carriers. I vastly prefer the unlocked GSM phone model that Europe operates under. Le sigh.
Thanks for the info. I'm unlikely to sell, as I can find uses even for a device that doesn't have service. I just thought I could kill the proverbial two birds with one stone if I could make it work. C'est la vie.
You're forgetting the fact that there are at least TWO major nationwide GSM carriers in the US.
Japan has better game-shows than the US does, but I'm not going to say, "good ol' US" when complaining about it. But, I wouldn't even complain about it.
Cirkustanz said:
You're forgetting the fact that there are at least TWO major nationwide GSM carriers in the US.
Japan has better game-shows than the US does, but I'm not going to say, "good ol' US" when complaining about it. But, I wouldn't even complain about it.
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Click to collapse
I'm not forgetting at all. The difference is that phones here, even for those two carriers, are sold locked rather than unlocked. Many consumers don't even know they have a choice, nor are they aware that their phones can be unlocked. The fact that the phones can be unlocked, and maybe could be used somewhere else in the world (depending on whether or not they support non-US bands), hardly excuses the fact that a tiny number of consumers would ever even realize that, or go through the hoops and hurdles necessary to unlock their phones.
This is a far cry from a market with many options for carriers where phones are sold unlocked and can be easily moved between any available carrier. The Wikipedia listing of mobile network operators in Europe (which I can't post) is quite illuminating when you realize that countries a tiny fraction of our size have a lot more than 2 choices that the phones they purchase, their property, can operate on. I would say cheering that at least we have two choices seems a little silly when the competition level here for carriers is so much weaker than elsewhere in the world.
Let's just say I'm more than a bit frustrated that what I've been gifted is, in the absence of one particular company's service, a brick. The phone belongs to me, yet whether or not I can use it as more than an alarm clock is dictated by only one company. It seems a little silly, and more than a tad bit frustrating. I would have much preferred an unlocked GSM phone; not only would I have two networks, albeit only one with 3G, to choose from, but my international options would have been wonderful.
Ok, so long story short.. there is no way to get the Droid A855 on gsm even if its unlocked? I know I just might be in the wrong forum but I have been searching all freaking day and honestly every site is starting to look the same to me 10:1 I'll prolly just sell the phone back off
Mr_Vicious said:
Ok, so long story short.. there is no way to get the Droid A855 on gsm even if its unlocked? I know I just might be in the wrong forum but I have been searching all freaking day and honestly every site is starting to look the same to me 10:1 I'll prolly just sell the phone back off
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, because the A855 does not have a GSM radio in it. Without the capable hardware, what you want to do is impossible.

Get a Moto X on AT&T or T-Mobile?

Basically my old Sensation is screaming die and I have my eyes on the Moto X, but I can't decide if I should wait and stick with T-Mobile or switch to AT&T. Main things I'm considering:
I would like to use Moto Maker, which AT&T has for at least 2 months (according to rumors).
T-Mobile should be getting the black or white versions "soon."
T-Mobile's plans are $10-20 per month cheaper for my situation, assuming current cost estimates of the Moto X.
T-Mobile might have less bloatware (no carrier branding in the notification area).
I guess what it really comes down to: Is AT&T's network/user experience that much better than T-Mobile's to justify the increased cost, bloatware, and exclusive customization? While the weight of Moto Maker is definitely a personal thing, please let me know your thoughts on the difference in the networks? Having only used a smartphone the T-mobile network, I just don't know if there would even be a discernible difference.
Thanks! :good:
felisen said:
Basically my old Sensation is screaming die and I have my eyes on the Moto X, but I can't decide if I should wait and stick with T-Mobile or switch to AT&T. Main things I'm considering:
I would like to use Moto Maker, which AT&T has for at least 2 months (according to rumors).
T-Mobile should be getting the black or white versions "soon."
T-Mobile's plans are $10-20 per month cheaper for my situation, assuming current cost estimates of the Moto X.
T-Mobile might have less bloatware (no carrier branding in the notification area).
I guess what it really comes down to: Is AT&T's network/user experience that much better than T-Mobile's to justify the increased cost, bloatware, and exclusive customization? While the weight of Moto Maker is definitely a personal thing, please let me know your thoughts on the difference in the networks? Having only used a smartphone the T-mobile network, I just don't know if there would even be a discernible difference.
Thanks! :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It will vary from city to city, but unless I was really strapped for cash, I'd pay $10 extra for AT&T. Here in DC, I'm always on LTE on ATT, but on T-Mobile I'd say I saw edge at least a couple of times per week.
Sent from my XT1058
There is surprisingly little bloatware on the at&t model.
Sent from my XT1058 using Tapatalk 2
linuxgator said:
There is surprisingly little bloatware on the at&t model.
Sent from my XT1058 using Tapatalk 2
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Click to collapse
Good to know thanks! I guess my only worries with respect to the bloatware is the AT&T logo in the notification area and something about an app that constantly popups asking to use it when calling someone (or something like that, it may have just been speculation I read).
I was going to start a new topic, but this forum is essentially the subject I wanted to ask about:
I'm thinking about getting the T-Mobile version of the Moto X because from everything I've read in these forums it's a bloatware-free device and has an unlocked SIM and (maybe) an unlockable bootloader.
I'd get the device to use on AT&T. What are the disadvantages of doing this (if any)?
-It sounds like there could be issues activating? Should I count on any such issues being surmountable?
-Will I receive over-the-air software updates?
-Will signal strength be in any way impacted?
-Will I have all the frequencies I need? I saw someone write that the T-Mobile version supports LTE bands 4 , 12 , 17 and the AT&T version supports bands 2, 4, 5, 17. It seems like in the USA AT&T only uses 4 and 17?
-What about 3G and voice signals?
-Using the phone overseas, say, Europe?
-Will any of this affect battery life compared with just using an AT&T phone on the AT&T network?
-People have said that if you unlock the bootloader you void the warranty. Whose warranty--Motorola's? Would this include dropping the phone and breaking the glass? I was considering getting an extended warranty--would someone like SquareTrade care about an unlocked bootloader if physical damage occurred?
Lastly, people have said that the AT&T version of the phone is not bad in terms of bloatware. Does anyone think it makes more sense to just get the AT&T version of the phone?
That's a lot of questions. Any insight into any of them will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
This might help you guys to decide:
The reason T-Mobile users need to get this model is because it's the only Moto X which supports T-Mobile's HSPA+ 42 network on the AWS band. The AT&T-compatible Moto X supports T-Mobile's LTE, but not the HSPA band, which means that if you fall off of LTE you'll be in T-Mobile's much more limited, slower 1900MHz HSPA+ 21 coverage.
likeybikey said:
I was going to start a new topic, but this forum is essentially the subject I wanted to ask about:
I'm thinking about getting the T-Mobile version of the Moto X because from everything I've read in these forums it's a bloatware-free device and has an unlocked SIM and (maybe) an unlockable bootloader.
I'd get the device to use on AT&T. What are the disadvantages of doing this (if any)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay, I'll answer what I can here. I just got my tmo Moto X from the recent discount and I have lines with both T-Mobile and AT&T.
-It sounds like there could be issues activating? Should I count on any such issues being surmountable?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had no issues swapping either operator's SIM into my phone. It was SIM unlocked out of the box and the AT&T SIM worked great--native tethering even worked without a mod (sadly still see no solution for native tmo tethering).
-Will I receive over-the-air software updates?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would expect you to receive the same OTA updates as anyone running a tmo Moto X regardless of the att SIM.
-Will signal strength be in any way impacted?
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Click to collapse
No. Many AT&T devices display more bars for a given signal strength than the same device on other operators (i.e. AT&T falsely makes signal look better than it is); I don't know if the AT&T Moto X does that or not, but it's just a display thing and not an actual difference.
-Will I have all the frequencies I need? I saw someone write that the T-Mobile version supports LTE bands 4 , 12 , 17 and the AT&T version supports bands 2, 4, 5, 17. It seems like in the USA AT&T only uses 4 and 17?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My understanding is that those frequencies are correct. I get LTE on both operators just fine.
-What about 3G and voice signals?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I haven't had any issues with either. Your frequency bands are all covered for everything AT&T does here in the US.
-Using the phone overseas, say, Europe?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The AT&T version may be more likely to get LTE there--I am not familiar with the LTE bands used in Europe--but neither will have trouble attaching to the various European 3G networks (assuming you somehow convince AT&T to give you a SIM unlock code, or pay for one). Also if you include Canada in your calculations, a number of their networks will benefit from HSPA over AWS.
-Will any of this affect battery life compared with just using an AT&T phone on the AT&T network?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It shouldn't.
-People have said that if you unlock the bootloader you void the warranty. Whose warranty--Motorola's? Would this include dropping the phone and breaking the glass? I was considering getting an extended warranty--would someone like SquareTrade care about an unlocked bootloader if physical damage occurred?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, Motorola's warranty. As for other stuff, you'd have to ask SquareTrade (or whoever) to be sure, but I don't really see how unlocking the bootloader would make them reluctant to replace your cracked-glass phone.
Lastly, people have said that the AT&T version of the phone is not bad in terms of bloatware. Does anyone think it makes more sense to just get the AT&T version of the phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you're buying unlocked anyway, I think the tmo version is an easy choice unless you desperately need a new nano-SIM (though I think AT&T will give you one for free if you drop by a store). The bloatware may not be that bad on the AT&T version, but you have to use some awkward hacks to get system r/w and the like. Of course if you're willing to do that, then you can kill the bloatware anyway.
teiglin said:
snip
No. Many AT&T devices display more bars for a given signal strength than the same device on other operators (i.e. AT&T falsely makes signal look better than it is); I don't know if the AT&T Moto X does that or not, but it's just a display thing and not an actual difference.
snip
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Funny you should mention that. The AT&T 4.4 build has 5 bars to display the cellular signal strength, the tmobile 4.4 build only has 4. It is quite odd they are not the same, wonder who wanted something different...
Steve-x said:
Funny you should mention that. The AT&T 4.4 build has 5 bars to display the cellular signal strength, the tmobile 4.4 build only has 4. It is quite odd they are not the same, wonder who wanted something different...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe AT&T using five bars vs. T-Mobile's four predates their cheating on signal strength, but I could be wrong. I've only been a T-Mobile customer for about a year (and have now almost entirely phased out AT&T, woohoo!).
The lesson is that signal bars are misleading at best, meaningless and confounding at worst. Check the numeric signal strength if you're interested in knowing how good your signal really is.
Super-awesome reply! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my questions. It really helps my decision process (I'm feeling emboldened to go for the T-Mobile version), and I'm sure this will help others as well. Thanks again!
teiglin said:
Okay, I'll answer what I can here. I just got my tmo Moto X from the recent discount and I have lines with both T-Mobile and AT&T.
Click to expand...
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As someone who just received his discounted Off-Contract T-Mobile Moto X, I have to recommend it. I got the $150 promotional discount and was curious myself as to which carrier version to buy. From all of the information gathered here on XDA, I made the choice to go with T-Mobile (and have no regrets, yet). I'd go into details on why I chose T-Mobile and such, but teiglin has already provided great (and accurate) answers to your questions.
So instead, I'll give you a quick recap:
- The T-Mobile version of the Moto X has absolutely no branding that I can find. Literally the only T-Mobile symbol I could find on the phone (software or hardware) was inside of it, on the T-Mobile Nano-SIM card.
- [From what I've read: motorola-global-portal.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/87215/] The T-Mobile version is essentially the developer's edition without the additional warranty coverage for unlocking your bootloader.
- The T-Mobile version of the Moto X has almost the same frequency bands as the AT&T version (except it also supports the HSDPA 1700 MHz band and doesn't support the LTE 850 MHz band)
Copied from GSMArena: gsmarena.com/motorola_moto_x-5601.php
2G Network
GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - all versions
CDMA 800 / 1900 - for Verizon, Sprint​3G Network
HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 - for AT&T, Verizon
HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700 / 1900 / 2100 - for T-Mobile
CDMA2000 1xEV-DO - for Verizon
HSDPA 850 / 1900 / 2100 - for Sprint​4G Network
LTE 700 / 850 / 1700 / 1900 / 2100 - for AT&T
LTE 700 / 1700 / 1900 / 2100 - for T-Mobile
LTE 700 MHz Class 13 - for Verizon
LTE 1900 - for Sprint​
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My Moto X usage:
I'm a former AT&T customer, having recently switched to Straight Talk through their BYOP (Bring Your Own Phone) program. I was still using the Motorola Atrix with a Mini-SIM card purchased from Straight Talk (the AT&T compatible one).
After receiving the $150 promo code and remembering the $100 old Motorola phones trade in program, it seemed like the right time to make the move and upgrade ($500 retail down to $250 after rebates/promotions). I placed my order on December 5th and was told it would arrive by the 10th (came on the 11th due to snow).
Once I got my Moto X, all I had to do was cut my Mini-SIM card down to a Nano-SIM card. Templates can be found here: airportal.de/nanosim/. Aside from the network cutting in and out (lasted for the first 10 minutes or so), I've had no problems since. I have access to 4G LTE and everything else seems to be working fine (haven't tried tethering yet).
In the end, I'd recommend the T-Mobile version just because there is no branding and it works fine on the AT&T network as well.
Thanks for adding to teiglin's reply! Good information for anyone interested in this phone!
semaj1919 said:
As someone who just received his discounted Off-Contract T-Mobile Moto X, I have to recommend it. I got the $150 promotional discount and was curious myself as to which carrier version to buy. From all of the information gathered here on XDA, I made the choice to go with T-Mobile (and have no regrets, yet). I'd go into details on why I chose T-Mobile and such, but teiglin has already provided great (and accurate) answers to your questions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
4g 4glte
semaj1919 said:
As someone who just received his discounted Off-Contract T-Mobile Moto X, I have to recommend it. I got the $150 promotional discount and was curious myself as to which carrier version to buy. From all of the information gathered here on XDA, I made the choice to go with T-Mobile (and have no regrets, yet). I'd go into details on why I chose T-Mobile and such, but teiglin has already provided great (and accurate) answers to your questions.
So instead, I'll give you a quick recap:
- The T-Mobile version of the Moto X has absolutely no branding that I can find. Literally the only T-Mobile symbol I could find on the phone (software or hardware) was inside of it, on the T-Mobile Nano-SIM card.
- [From what I've read: motorola-global-portal.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/87215/] The T-Mobile version is essentially the developer's edition without the additional warranty coverage for unlocking your bootloader.
- The T-Mobile version of the Moto X has almost the same frequency bands as the AT&T version (except it also supports the HSDPA 1700 MHz band and doesn't support the LTE 850 MHz band)
My Moto X usage:
I'm a former AT&T customer, having recently switched to Straight Talk through their BYOP (Bring Your Own Phone) program. I was still using the Motorola Atrix with a Mini-SIM card purchased from Straight Talk (the AT&T compatible one).
After receiving the $150 promo code and remembering the $100 old Motorola phones trade in program, it seemed like the right time to make the move and upgrade ($500 retail down to $250 after rebates/promotions). I placed my order on December 5th and was told it would arrive by the 10th (came on the 11th due to snow).
Once I got my Moto X, all I had to do was cut my Mini-SIM card down to a Nano-SIM card. Templates can be found here: airportal.de/nanosim/. Aside from the network cutting in and out (lasted for the first 10 minutes or so), I've had no problems since. I have access to 4G LTE and everything else seems to be working fine (haven't tried tethering yet).
In the end, I'd recommend the T-Mobile version just because there is no branding and it works fine on the AT&T network as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got the TMO version for use on AT&T. No branding at all.
I went to the AT&T store and they put in a new sim. I'm getting perfect service though I only see the 4G at the top. Wondering if I should also be seeing 4GLTE? Is there something else I need to do to get LTE speeds? Or am I already getting them and just don't see it?
Look here in xda, you won't get lte unless ATT registers your Moto with an imei from another ATT Moto. I had the same issue. There's a post here in xda where you will see what I had to do and who helped me
Rocking the new Moto X
Woop Woop
likeybikey said:
-People have said that if you unlock the bootloader you void the warranty. Whose warranty--Motorola's? Would this include dropping the phone and breaking the glass? I was considering getting an extended warranty--would someone like SquareTrade care about an unlocked bootloader if physical damage occurred?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I remember reading somewhere a chat between a potential customer and a Motorola rep. The rep said that unlocking it voids the entire warranty with Motorola, hardware included. So you would have to check with whoever else you could get the warranty with.
Sent from my Moto-X (GSM DE) using the xda-developers app
nelsonccc said:
I got the TMO version for use on AT&T. No branding at all.
I went to the AT&T store and they put in a new sim. I'm getting perfect service though I only see the 4G at the top. Wondering if I should also be seeing 4GLTE? Is there something else I need to do to get LTE speeds? Or am I already getting them and just don't see it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry for the late response. I actually had to check my phone a few times just to confirm my thoughts before posting them here. I can't really comment on 4G and 4G LTE for AT&T, because I have Straight Talk. But from what I've read, I believe Straight Talk piggy-backs on AT&T's network as is, so I'd imagine it'd have to be similar.
I've been noticing the 4G icon in the notification bar also indicates 'LTE', although not all the time. There are times where I also see only the 4G icon without the 'LTE' symbol, during which speed tests have been much slower. Can't confirm what r_diaz13 posted, and I don't know if what he's saying applies to people on Straight Talk's network.
r_diaz13 said:
Look here in xda, you won't get lte unless ATT registers your Moto with an imei from another ATT Moto. I had the same issue. There's a post here in xda where you will see what I had to do and who helped me
Rocking the new Moto X
Woop Woop
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is WRONG.
Totally NOT necessary to use an IMEI from a different LTE phone.
I just activated an XT1053 (the TMo version, which is SIM unlocked).
Put in an AT&T nano-sim card which I picked up from my AT&T company owned store.
Called in to activate the card -- but asked to talk to 2nd level support since I knew 1st level would NOT be able to help and likely tell me the same kind of dumb stuff I've seen posted about how to get the phone to work.
2nd level support was great -- and because I knew what I was talking about, it took less than 5 min to take care of what is necessary.
You will need to manually enter MMSC and MMS Proxy in the APN settings
MMSC should be:
-https://mmsc.mobile.att.net-
don't enter with the dash at front and back, the forum doesn't let you post what they think are links if you are new.
MMS proxy should be:
proxy.mobile.att.net
Just as an FYI -- these settings are BURIED (you cannot see them) on the AT&T version --
And these settings are NOT DOWNLOADED AUTOMATICALLY via SIM card (I thought they might be).
You can confirm whether you are getting LTE service not only by the indicator in the status bar up at the top with signal strength but by going into ABOUT PHONE from the Settings menu (scroll all the way down). Then in that menu, click on STATUS. Here you will scroll down and see the battery level, network signal strength and mobile network type.
If you are getting 4G only, it would should HSPA+.
If you are getting LTE, it will show LTE here.
Hope that helps.
I'm just a bit weary of seeing the wrong information on this and hope this helps others out. The TMo version works great on AT&T, you just have to enter the MMSC and MMS proxy manually and you should be good to go.
Did you have an LTE plan before? I'm telling you it is true. The xda member that helped me out is an att employee who works at a att store and he was the only one able to do it. He told me since I didn't have an lte plan before it wouldn't just pick up lte. ATT has to end other feature in the account. When I gave then the tmo imei, it shows up as gsm only, not lte.
So if you already have lte, you are good to go with just a simple sim swap. If you don't have lte already, you need to follow these steps. Nothing to do with APN settings or anything.
Rocking the new Moto X
Woop Woop
r_diaz13 said:
Did you have an LTE plan before? I'm telling you it is true. The xda member that helped me out is an att employee who works at a att store and he was the only one able to do it. He told me since I didn't have an lte plan before it wouldn't just pick up lte. ATT has to end other feature in the account. When I gave then the tmo imei, it shows up as gsm only, not lte.
So if you already have lte, you are good to go with just a simple sim swap. If you don't have lte already, you need to follow these steps. Nothing to do with APN settings or anything.
Rocking the new Moto X
Woop Woop
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is wrong information -- hopefully people here read through to get the accurate information.
I did NOT have an LTE plan before (I had a Moto Atrix 4G, which gave me HSPA+ service).
When I gave them the IMEI from the TMo Moto X I purchased, I asked them specifically, what does it show in your system?
2nd level support told me it was a non-ATT version of the Moto X -- totally accurate.
She then knew exactly what settings were needed (as I noted above in my post) to be entered. These settings are not shown anywhere on the AT&T version of the Moto X (again, I know because I have 3 of those that I unlocked).
To be clear to anyone else thinking of getting the TMo version of the Moto X. You do not need to lie and give them some other IMEI. You simply need to make sure you have those settings input into your phone. As soon as they were entered, my TMo XT1053 showed LTE service.
Please do not continue to give out wrong information -- this may have solved the problem for you (to give a different IMEI), but it is totally not necessary. I have seen people asking about how they are supposed to get an LTE IMEI to activate a nano sim card and get LTE service. It is not necessary on the TMo version (now Moto says this is the GSM unlocked version -- which is really more accurate because it has absolutely NO BRANDING and no other software from any provider -- and is exactly the same as the Dev Edition except for the fact that the Dev edition can be bootloader unlocked and retain its warranty).
I have the Dev Version (same as T-Mobile) running on Straight Talk with AT&T. Other than one small configuration issue in the phone settings LTE is working fine.

Verizon and Walmarts Straight Talk??

I have a LG G2 and I am no longer under contract to Verizon, so I just pay VZW month to month for my service.
My questions here are:
Can I switched to Walmarts Straight Talk with my G2?
Would I still have the same coverage (4G) area on Straight Talk?
Thank you
No one has any info on this?
hd-renegade said:
No one has any info on this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AFAIK you have to buy one of their phones to use CDMA networks. Only the gsm carriers have the bring your own phone on ST.
Geekybiker said:
AFAIK you have to buy one of their phones to use CDMA networks. Only the gsm carriers have the bring your own phone on ST.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Isn't the G2 CDMA and GSM capible??
Yes it is.
Sent from my VS980 4G using Tapatalk 4
There are people who wrote a method to flash a sprint epic to straight talk Verizon towers that works on sprint Note 2s. One of the intermediate steps flashes a vzw phone. CDMA workshop and a little bit of work can make it happen.
hd-renegade said:
I have a LG G2 and I am no longer under contract to Verizon, so I just pay VZW month to month for my service.
My questions here are:
Can I switched to Walmarts Straight Talk with my G2?
Would I still have the same coverage (4G) area on Straight Talk?
Thank you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I looked into this a while back, since it sounded so wonderful in the commercials. I don't think Straight Talk offers any 4G service, but I could be wrong. It may be available on their GSM towers. Either way, if you follow the link below for "bring your own phone," then click on CMDA, the next page states BYOP does not work on 4G phones.
http://straighttalkbyop.com/
I seem to remember them selling a 3G Samsung S3 when I was looking into their service. That kind of put me off of them.
zandroid said:
I looked into this a while back, since it sounded so wonderful in the commercials. I don't think Straight Talk offers any 4G service, but I could be wrong. It may be available on their GSM towers. Either way, if you follow the link below for "bring your own phone," then click on CMDA, the next page states BYOP does not work on 4G phones.
http://straighttalkbyop.com/
I seem to remember them selling a 3G Samsung S3 when I was looking into their service. That kind of put me off of them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you, I sort of figured maybe it was to good to be true.
Straight talk=3g only and vzw network only. No roaming networks.
trollarc said:
Straight talk=3g only and vzw network only. No roaming networks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Another thank you on good info for this.
trollarc said:
Straight talk=3g only and vzw network only. No roaming networks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can get a LTE sim with ATT now on ST. Don't know if you can make it work in a VZW g2, but it should work fine in the ATT g2.
Okay, correction to my post. If you want vzw towers on st you have to have only vzw towers if you have a CDMA only phone. You can fflash to their sprint based service and only have sprint service (probably, not sure if they have donors to hack). Their sim networks are Att/T-Mobile. I haven't heard of anybody flashing to the st vzw towers with a vzw sim equipped phone and using one of their sims. That might be useful if you were in a place that regularly has simbased services and occasionally went to the boonies- you could just switch which service was active assuming you get better speed or home coverage on the sim service. Also useful for international (read: not north American) roaming.
Sent from my LG-LS970 using Tapatalk
I realize that this is an old thread but I just switched to Straight Talk from Verizon and thought I would share this. After the switch (I kept my number from Verizon) my phone still shows Verizon Wireless on the lock screen, still says VZWInternet for my APN settings and still shows that I am getting 4GLTE. I am actually on Straight Talk service though as I have my SIM from ST in my phone. I didnt have to use an ATT sim or anything. I registered CDMA on the Straight Talk site before I switched my phone number over. Hope this is useful to anyone thinking about switching over.
Verizon is a straighttalk's carrier so basically your phone is still working under Verizon wireless.
Sent from my HTC One XL using XDA Free mobile app
Just to shed a little light on this, while Straight Talk might operate on VZW towers in some regions, VZW does not authorize straight talk to use phones like the LG G2. One of the powers of CDMA is they can pre-approve select serial numbers for certain carriers, thus VZW knows every single phone ever manufactured for their network and can selectively choose which can be authorized to connect. Thats why you have to go through all the crazy phone cloning to get CDMA phones to look like authorized devices.
Anyway, ST operates on both CDMA and GSM in certain markets. When operating on GSM they utilize AT&T. The LG G2 can only connect to ST if you are using the native unlocked GSM mode. Thats right, all Verizon LG G2 phones are GSM unlocked. So if Straight Talk offers a GSM service through ATT in your area then you can use Straight Talk. If you are trying to connect to Straight Talk's CDMA service (verizon towers) it will not work. Of course you can also use your G2 on any GSM carrier, so T-mobile is also a good player here as they offer some pretty attractive plans, namely their $30/month 5GB/100minute plan. If you have a google voice number you can use Hangouts to place calls that count against data and not minutes, thus you have an Unlimited voice plan with 5GB data for $30/month.
RunNgun42 said:
Just to shed a little light on this, while Straight Talk might operate on VZW towers in some regions, VZW does not authorize straight talk to use phones like the LG G2. One of the powers of CDMA is they can pre-approve select serial numbers for certain carriers, thus VZW knows every single phone ever manufactured for their network and can selectively choose which can be authorized to connect. Thats why you have to go through all the crazy phone cloning to get CDMA phones to look like authorized devices.
Anyway, ST operates on both CDMA and GSM in certain markets. When operating on GSM they utilize AT&T. The LG G2 can only connect to ST if you are using the native unlocked GSM mode. Thats right, all Verizon LG G2 phones are GSM unlocked. So if Straight Talk offers a GSM service through ATT in your area then you can use Straight Talk. If you are trying to connect to Straight Talk's CDMA service (verizon towers) it will not work. Of course you can also use your G2 on any GSM carrier, so T-mobile is also a good player here as they offer some pretty attractive plans, namely their $30/month 5GB/100minute plan. If you have a google voice number you can use Hangouts to place calls that count against data and not minutes, thus you have an Unlimited voice plan with 5GB data for $30/month.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Er, no. "Phone cloning" was necessary for using devices on older 3G-only MVNOs, but it's no longer the case now that Verizon uses SIM cards. (as do many Verizon MVNOs, like Straight Talk, Pageplus, etc)
As long as the G2 is in good standing (IMEI/ESN not blacklisted due to non-payment/stolen phone/etc), you can use it on ST. All you need to do is request a Verizon SIM from ST CS, pop it in the phone, and go. The $45 for Unlimited/Unlimited/5GB BYOP plan works fine on Verizon. Hell, as long as you have an activated SIM card, you can even use non-Verizon-approved LTE devices on a Verizon plan as long as it has the necessary LTE bands.
Why are you reviving an old, dead topic with outdated information?
xtermmin said:
Er, no. "Phone cloning" was necessary for using devices on older 3G-only MVNOs, but it's no longer the case now that Verizon uses SIM cards. (as do many Verizon MVNOs, like Straight Talk, Pageplus, etc)
As long as the G2 is in good standing (IMEI/ESN not blacklisted due to non-payment/stolen phone/etc), you can use it on ST. All you need to do is request a Verizon SIM from ST CS, pop it in the phone, and go. The $45 for Unlimited/Unlimited/5GB BYOP plan works fine on Verizon. Hell, as long as you have an activated SIM card, you can even use non-Verizon-approved LTE devices on a Verizon plan as long as it has the necessary LTE bands.
Why are you reviving an old, dead topic with outdated information?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the info, I was misinformed. Since I just canceled with Verizon and ate the ETF penalty, I still have my Verizon 4G sim. Can I use that with ST? Or do I still need to order an official ST branded sim to use with Verizon?
RunNgun42 said:
Thanks for the info, I was misinformed. Since I just canceled with Verizon and ate the ETF penalty, I still have my Verizon 4G sim. Can I use that with ST? Or do I still need to order an official ST branded sim to use with Verizon?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ST will give you a SIM when you sign up, but be sure that it's for the Verizon network.
If you're ordering over the phone, just tell the rep that you want it for Verizon.
If you're doing it in store, make sure you're getting the ST Activation Kit for Verizon. Apparently not all Walmarts carry the ST Verizon kit, so you might have to order over the phone/on ST's website.
Once you get it, just pop it in your Verizon G2 and you're good to go.
xtermmin said:
ST will give you a SIM when you sign up, but be sure that it's for the Verizon network.
If you're ordering over the phone, just tell the rep that you want it for Verizon.
If you're doing it in store, make sure you're getting the ST Activation Kit for Verizon. Apparently not all Walmarts carry the ST Verizon kit, so you might have to order over the phone/on ST's website.
Once you get it, just pop it in your Verizon G2 and you're good to go.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What seems so unreal about this is that I'm paying for Verizon service for less than Verizon charges. How the hell does that work for them? Does Verizon just make most of their money roping people into contracts for new phone subsidies? Do they severely deprioritize non VZW customers to the point that ST might be miserable on their network?
RunNgun42 said:
What seems so unreal about this is that I'm paying for Verizon service for less than Verizon charges. How the hell does that work for them? Does Verizon just make most of their money roping people into contracts for new phone subsidies? Do they severely deprioritize non VZW customers to the point that ST might be miserable on their network?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are a few of catches to ST's service, which apply to other Verizon MVNOs as well:
1) Verizon postpaid has roaming on 3rd party networks, while prepaid and MVNOs are limited to Verizon's native network only.
2) Verizon MVNOs have lower priority than Verizon-proper. On congested towers, ST and other MVNOs will have the slowest speeds.
3) Similar to the above, all Verizon MVNOs are capped at 5mbps LTE speeds. So not only do ST/MVNOs have the lowest priority, but even on uncongested towers their speeds are limited.
On the plus side, you get Verizon coverage, the largest data bucket at the $45 price point (5GB), and no additional charges/suspended data after you use your allotment (ST throttles to 64kbps after).
If priority and speeds are important, Verizon Prepaid has unlimited talk+text+2GB data (suspended after unless you pay for more) for $45. Higher priority than MVNOs and no speed restrictions.

Unlocking LG G2 for verizon?

I was wondering if it was possible to unlock a Tmobile g2 for use on verizon? Also could i do the same for a ATT G2 for use on verizon?
Thanks yall!
andriodfanatic said:
I was wondering if it was possible to unlock a Tmobile g2 for use on verizon? Also could i do the same for a ATT G2 for use on verizon?
Thanks yall!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope. Verizon uses different technology.... LTE is the ONLY reason Verizon phones use a sim card. You could do the Oppisite though, you can use an Verizon G2 on T-Mobile or AT&T but not the other way around.
It's already factory unlocked.
Sent from my VS980 4G using Tapatalk
andriodfanatic said:
I was wondering if it was possible to unlock a Tmobile g2 for use on verizon? Also could i do the same for a ATT G2 for use on verizon?
Thanks yall!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No the Tmobile version does not have CDMA radio which is what Verizon and Sprint use for 3g data and calls.
The LG G2 Verizon model (vs980) comes fully gsm unlocked on 3g, 1x support.(CMDA unlocked LTE,3G,1x. I believe:good I have seen multiple people have their lg g2 connected to the T-Mobile network no problem.
Someone correct me if my information is incorrect.
Thank you.
No. It's impossible. Not just bc the radio technology is different, (gsm/cdma) Even if the bands were completely compatible, verizon would not allow it on their network. Only verizon certified phones will Work. Meaning they have to be verizon branded
findinghomer said:
No. It's impossible. Not just bc the radio technology is different, (gsm/cdma) Even if the bands were completely compatible, verizon would not allow it on their network. Only verizon certified phones will Work. Meaning they have to be verizon branded
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You CAN use GSM networks on the verizon G2, the phone radio fully supports HSPA+. You will need to change it in the hidden cellular settings pane, I just used an app called "Advanced Signal Status" and scrolled down until there was a button called "Additional Info" from there I went to "Phone Information" and you can set the preferred network type. Set it to GSM/UMTS. if you are running on stock, it's Settings > Tethering & network > Mobile networks > System and then select it. You will also need to add the APNs.
Verizon cannot lock down their phones to one network according to the FCC Network Access Regulations.
"(e) Handset locking prohibited. No licensee may disable features on handsets it provides to customers, to the extent such features are compliant with the licensee's standards pursuant to paragraph (b) of this section, nor configure handsets it provides to prohibit use of such handsets on other providers' networks."
Verizon can block certain handsets from being used on their network, but cannot block their branded phones from going on a different network if the phone's hardware supports it.
If it were impossible, how are many people connecting to and using GSM networks on the Verizon G2 (VS980)?!
Even though Verizon is a evil carrier, they cannot prevent this.
Do research before posting.
Thank you,
Stephen
hiddenfive said:
You CAN use GSM networks on the verizon G2, the phone radio fully supports HSPA+. You will need to change it in the hidden cellular settings pane, I just used an app called "Advanced Signal Status" and scrolled down until there was a button called "Additional Info" from there I went to "Phone Information" and you can set the preferred network type. Set it to GSM/UMTS. if you are running on stock, it's Settings > Tethering & network > Mobile networks > System and then select it. You will also need to add the APNs.
Verizon cannot lock down their phones to one network according to the FCC Network Access Regulations.
"(e) Handset locking prohibited. No licensee may disable features on handsets it provides to customers, to the extent such features are compliant with the licensee's standards pursuant to paragraph (b) of this section, nor configure handsets it provides to prohibit use of such handsets on other providers' networks."
Verizon can block certain handsets from being used on their network, but cannot block their branded phones from going on a different network if the phone's hardware supports it.
If it were impossible, how are many people connecting to and using GSM networks on the Verizon G2 (VS980)?!
Even though Verizon is a evil carrier, they cannot prevent this.
Do research before posting.
Thank you,
Stephen
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
stephen, thanks for such a nice thorough post, but YOU need to reread my post or actually reread the ORIGINAL post as well. the question is , can you take another carriers phone and use it on verizon, not can you take a verizon phone and use it on GSM, we all know you can do that . LOL LOL!! . , YOU CANNOT use gsm phones or any phone what so ever on verizon unless it is a verizon branded phone, again , (like i said in my original post) REGARDLESS if its compatible with their network. thanks for rereading...and have a nice day
oh... and youre right, verizon can not lock down their phones, (again we all know that,) but they can lock down who, and what accesses THEIR network. please do more research before posting "information" lol
findinghomer said:
stephen, thanks for such a nice thorough post, but YOU need to reread my post or actually reread the ORIGINAL post as well. the question is , can you take another carriers phone and use it on verizon, not can you take a verizon phone and use it on GSM, we all know you can do that . LOL LOL!! . , YOU CANNOT use gsm phones or any phone what so ever on verizon unless it is a verizon branded phone, again , (like i said in my original post) REGARDLESS if its compatible with their network. thanks for rereading...and have a nice day
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I will have to apologize completely for this, I AM SORRY. I had just woken up, and was groggy, but you were right,
I AM TOO FULL OF MYSELF
Have a wonderful day!
This is why I recommend buying the Verizon model. Not only do you get additional radios to use on Verizon or any GSM network, it is unlocked out of the box and has Qi Wireless Charging unlike any of the other variants. Moving from ROM to ROM is no biggie either. I've seen people flashing Tmobile Roms on the Verizon G2.
help
Hi guys.. Hoping much to get your expert opinion.. I live outside USA and got a Verizon G2 as a gift. When I turned on the phone it asked to select the language which then further proceeds to set up but since it cannot connect to Verizon server , it just keeps searching and then routes to emergency calls only.mode.. Tried to insert the local Sim but its not recognizing it.
I have seen you guys talking about having it factory unlocked out of the box but this doesn't .. Please help the brother out
PS. I am a layman so kindly use digestible method.
asnawaz23 said:
Hi guys.. Hoping much to get your expert opinion.. I live outside USA and got a Verizon G2 as a gift. When I turned on the phone it asked to select the language which then further proceeds to set up but since it cannot connect to Verizon server , it just keeps searching and then routes to emergency calls only.mode.. Tried to insert the local Sim but its not recognizing it.
I have seen you guys talking about having it factory unlocked out of the box but this doesn't .. Please help the brother out
PS. I am a layman so kindly use digestible method.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think you have to go into your network settings and change your API's to match your network you intend to use. That carrier should supply those if you call them.
Sent from my VS980 4G using XDA Free mobile app
It works for me i lived in asia. Cdma and gsm both work. But for cdma i have to inject the number and i also plug the gsm sim card incase there is no signal i can easly switch to gsm provider.
VS980 Verizon

[Q] Local carrier FINALLY has 4G LTE but doesnt use sprint.

Hello everyone,
I want to to know exactly how I can implement this to my HTC one however what I've been told is that what ever Sprint devices they have sold will not able to work on this new upgrade.
I've been chatting back and fourth with an employee and he says it's a gsm based 4g LTE that's works on hspa or something that uses 1900mhz bandwidth. With that said will I be able to go ahead and convert to what my carrier uses?
Another note, I've successfully SIM unlocked but haven't had a SIM to try it out if it is unlocked, in doing the unlock will I be able to utilize this update to my carriers data speeds? All the employee said as of right now Sprint branded devices are not able to be used with the upgraded network and it uses a gsm based 4g that uses 1900mhz bands. Quite a few people are pissed about this but their normal users and do not know about root and everything associated with it, to include SIM unlocking.
Another thing the employee mentioned was they are now selling HTC one m7 and m8 that are able to utilize the network, he says they are "generic" and Verizon, what I'm thinking that they are just global versions of the device, so who ever got Sprint branded phones are screwed cause they can't upgrade to the new network.
I am hoping I can use this new found boost in data speeds locally!!
v1ral said:
Hello everyone,
I want to to know exactly how I can implement this to my HTC one however what I've been told is that what ever Sprint devices they have sold will not able to work on this new upgrade.
I've been chatting back and fourth with an employee and he says it's a gsm based 4g LTE that's works on hspa or something that uses 1900mhz bandwidth. With that said will I be able to go ahead and convert to what my carrier uses?
Another note, I've successfully SIM unlocked but haven't had a SIM to try it out if it is unlocked, in doing the unlock will I be able to utilize this update to my carriers data speeds? All the employee said as of right now Sprint branded devices are not able to be used with the upgraded network and it uses a gsm based 4g that uses 1900mhz bands. Quite a few people are pissed about this but their normal users and do not know about root and everything associated with it, to include SIM unlocking.
Another thing the employee mentioned was they are now selling HTC one m7 and m8 that are able to utilize the network, he says they are "generic" and Verizon, what I'm thinking that they are just global versions of the device, so who ever got Sprint branded phones are screwed cause they can't upgrade to the new network.
I am hoping I can use this new found boost in data speeds locally!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
County? City? State? You provided no information here. Also from the sounds of it NO you can not convert your phone. The bands 4G uses are limited by the hardware in them, if you bought a SPRINT CDMA phone in a foreign county no one screwed anyone except you screwing yourself. You should have bought the global version directly from HTC.
Kraizk said:
County? City? State? You provided no information here. Also from the sounds of it NO you can not convert your phone. The bands 4G uses are limited by the hardware in them, if you bought a SPRINT CDMA phone in a foreign county no one screwed anyone except you screwing yourself. You should have bought the global version directly from HTC.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks.
I'm not in the states I'm located in Guam, I'm aware of the hardware limitations, but I'm wondering if the device will be able to pick up signal. I believe my carrier will be using hsdpa bands at 1900mhz and I'm under the impression that the Sprint use those
I am screwed as well as others that have gotten Sprint branded devices here, I feel for them but those people are normal users, that don't know rooting and what associated with it. I don't feel too bad about having this device at all, it's been working great, I was just waiting for my carrier to bring out something 3G data.
I was really banking on having it be able to get the upgraded speeds, and maybe help others who are on the same boat as me.
Thanks again!

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