Hello,
What is the preferred Samsung Note 8 model for obtaining root if you are in the US? In my area, AT&T(GSM) and Verizon(CDMA) are the two main carriers. I would perfer to have a phone which is unlocked for both network types(GSM/CDMA). I'm not tied down in a contract so I plan on buy from Amazon so I can continue without being in contract. Thank You!
Questions:
A. Preferred Samsung Note 8 model for obtaining root in US?
B. Is root even worth the effort of the 'jumping through the hoops it takes to obtain it'?
C. Once you have root, will new updates from Android affect it or have the possibility of losing it?
Coming from a totally unlocked Note 4 back in February, I thought that I would really need root access on my Note 8. But with using Samsung themes to get the system color I wanted, then using Nova Launcher to get the icon look. And using notSABS for ad blocking. I can honestly say that with the Note 8, I do not need root access. Yes having full access of MY phone should be MY choice, but I'm ok with it.
My wife and I have the SM-N950U from Xfinity and we love them. For the price of their service you can't beat them. We just pay by the gig and we have never used more than 1 GB of data. So if we didn't get the phones from them and get insurance, we would only be paying $12/month for 2 lines.(up to 5 lines)
Sent from my SM-N950U using XDA Labs
If you want to root, there is a big drawback with snapdaragons, after rooting, your batt will only charge 80%, in any case snap or exynos, samsung pay will no longer work, and, after rooting, no OTA firmware updates will show for download
I would stay away from US carriers phones. get the international version instead.
Once you root, you lose the chance of using Samsung Pay and SecureFolder for the rest of the phone's life. Un-rooting won't get them to work.
It is up to you to decide. For me, I root because I need Adaway, Titanium Backup, TWRP. Yes, I love SecureFolder but I love the benefits of root capabilities more.
winol said:
If you want to root, there is a big drawback with snapdaragons, after rooting, your batt will only charge 80%, in any case snap or exynos, samsung pay will no longer work, and, after rooting, no OTA firmware updates will show for download
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have read it's better to keep your battery charged between 20% to 80% for the best battery life, so would that be a good thing?
طوني تبولة said:
I would stay away from US carriers phones. get the international version instead.
Once you root, you lose the chance of using Samsung Pay and SecureFolder for the rest of the phone's life. Un-rooting won't get them to work.
It is up to you to decide. For me, I root because I need Adaway, Titanium Backup, TWRP. Yes, I love SecureFolder but I love the benefits of root capabilities more.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't ever plan on using Samsung Pay, so no issue there, I'm unaware of SecureFolder. What model and what carrier do you have? CDMA or GSM? I have read that the exynos phones cell radio or tower reception doesn't work as well in the US. Have you noticed any issues with that or with WIFI? Any advice on getting the best deal on one?
I would recommend that you purchase the US Unlocked Variant, which is available in the US.
I used to have the U version on ATT. I changed to an unlocked dual SIM 950FD. It cost $600 on eBay instead of $900+ for the US variant. I notice ABSOLUTELY NO DIFFERENCE between the two. No data speed difference, nothing. Same software, same everything. And I update the rom regularly on sammobile. Plus I have the dual SIM option. So, same thing $300 cheaper.
Oh and lests not forget: no bloatware..
Related
Hello,
Which Note 8 should I buy?
International Version
Unlocked Version
Sprint Version
I heard the processor for the International Version is best I think it stats with an E. Should I get that?
I would like to root.
Does it matter or should I just order one directly from Sprint?
Will this work with Sprint?
Samsung Galaxy Note 8 Factory Unlocked Phone - 6.3" Screen - 64GB - Midnight Black (U.S. Warranty)
This one from Amazon?
Should I buy that one above from Amazon or buy it directly from Sprint?
Can I root both of them?
I would like to order one today, I just don't know if I should order from Sprint or Amazon.
P.S.
Also if this is not possible should I get a S8 or S8 Plus? However, reading over on their threads doesn't look like root is possible really there either, hit or miss. Is that true? Which S8 I should get? International or US?
I mainly want apps like:
Ad Block
YouTube Background Player
YouTube Ad Block
ETC...
Please Advise.
you said sprint, sprint is cmda... meaning, exynos WILL NOT WORK. no international phone, you must buy snapdragon. now you have two choices carrier locked, and carrier unlocked. both have a locked boot loader and are not currently capable of root. if you purchase the phone out right it does not really matter which version you get. if you buy sprint locked after 50 days on their network they will carrier unlock the phone. the only true difference is carrier bloatware/ software which I'm hearing can be flashed using odin
purchasedPhone said:
you said sprint, sprint is cmda... meaning, exynos WILL NOT WORK. no international phone, you must buy snapdragon. now you have two choices carrier locked, and carrier unlocked. both have a locked boot loader and are not currently capable of root. if you purchase the phone out right it does not really matter which version you get. if you buy sprint locked after 50 days on their network they will carrier unlock the phone. the only true difference is carrier bloatware/ software which I'm hearing can be flashed using odin
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are SOME radio differences but I agree it shouldn't matter.
purchasedPhone said:
you said sprint, sprint is cmda... meaning, exynos WILL NOT WORK. no international phone, you must buy snapdragon. now you have two choices carrier locked, and carrier unlocked. both have a locked boot loader and are not currently capable of root. if you purchase the phone out right it does not really matter which version you get. if you buy sprint locked after 50 days on their network they will carrier unlock the phone. the only true difference is carrier bloatware/ software which I'm hearing can be flashed using odin
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you, that is what I need to know. Now what about getting a S8 or S8 Plus instead? Are those rootable? I mean does it even matter any more? The only thing I really want root for is Youtube Ad Block, but what the crap, mine as well just pay 10 bucks a month and get Youtube Red and allow my phone to update it self all the time.
pcriz said:
There are SOME radio differences but I agree it shouldn't matter.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What about S8 or S8 Plus? Root those or are people still having trouble? I think Samsung has finally figured out how to make it really difficult. Seems like it is not even worth it anymore.
AtlantaBB said:
Thank you, that is what I need to know. Now what about getting a S8 or S8 Plus instead? Are those rootable? I mean does it even matter any more? The only thing I really want root for is Youtube Ad Block, but what the crap, mine as well just pay 10 bucks a month and get Youtube Red and allow my phone to update it self all the time.
What about S8 or S8 Plus? Root those or are people still having trouble? I think Samsung has finally figured out how to make it really difficult. Seems like it is not even worth it anymore.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
from what I hear it is possible to root the s8, but it limits your max battery charge to 80%? kinda a **** trade off if you ask me.
so I'm like you I thought I must have root, my last android was a Nexus with a completely unlocked boot loader and I flashed custom roms when I tired of my current rom. that was four years ago and I've been jailbroke iOS since. do you still need root?
most people will say no. if they say absolutely the main arguments I've heard are for xposed(which doesn't even work on android 7) and viper4android (or some similar name, a sound tweak I think) besides those two, removing bloatware, and hosts file ad blocking.
my personal experience: I will be giving up an unlocked boot loader by purchasing the note 8. this mean no custom roms. I haven't given up hope for a future possible root method, but I am willing to accept that it may never come or when it does we can only charge to 80% or something else ridiculous. I don't need root, I would like it, but I will compromise.
tldr;probably not, especially if you are willing to sub to YouTube red for 10$ a month.
AtlantaBB said:
Thank you, that is what I need to know. Now what about getting a S8 or S8 Plus instead? Are those rootable?
What about S8 or S8 Plus? Root those or are people still having trouble? I think Samsung has finally figured out how to make it really difficult. Seems like it is not even worth it anymore.
I mean does it even matter any more? The only thing I really want root for is Youtube Ad Block, but what the crap, mine as well just pay 10 bucks a month and get Youtube Red and allow my phone to update it self all the time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The issue is that the Snapdragons have locked bootloaders but you need a SD version to use the Sprint network. It doesn't matter if you buy a Note 8 or an S8, the issue with the locked bootloader is the same.
For me personally, I need root because a lot of the apps I have use root. If you only wanted to block ads on YouTube, it's probably unnecessary and far more hassle than it's worth.
purchasedPhone said:
from what I hear it is possible to root the s8, but it limits your max battery charge to 80%? kinda a **** trade off if you ask me.
so I'm like you I thought I must have root, my last android was a Nexus with a completely unlocked boot loader and I flashed custom roms when I tired of my current rom. that was four years ago and I've been jailbroke iOS since. do you still need root?
most people will say no. if they say absolutely the main arguments I've heard are for xposed(which doesn't even work on android 7) and viper4android (or some similar name, a sound tweak I think) besides those two, removing bloatware, and hosts file ad blocking.
my personal experience: I will be giving up an unlocked boot loader by purchasing the note 8. this mean no custom roms. I haven't given up hope for a future possible root method, but I am willing to accept that it may never come or when it does we can only charge to 80% or something else ridiculous. I don't need root, I would like it, but I will compromise.
tldr;probably not, especially if you are willing to sub to YouTube red for 10$ a month.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Torquemada288 said:
The issue is that the Snapdragons have locked bootloaders but you need a SD version to use the Sprint network. It doesn't matter if you buy a Note 8 or an S8, the issue with the locked bootloader is the same.
For me personally, I need root because a lot of the apps I have use root. If you only wanted to block ads on YouTube, it's probably unnecessary and far more hassle than it's worth.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Last question. I saw on another thread that this ... Is this true? Should I buy one that is unlocked from Amazon or the Samsung site and get hotspot or can I get hotspot on the Sprint one or do I need to search for the perfect app to do it? Which would be easier?
Unlocked version:
Hotspot - Awesome
Download Booster - Awesome
No Bloat - Awesome
Wi-Fi Calling - working awesomely
Sprint Version:
LTE Calling - I might miss, might be worth flashing Sprint mod when available...
Please Advise.
AtlantaBB said:
Last question. I saw on another thread that this ... Is this true? Should I buy one that is unlocked from Amazon or the Samsung site and get hotspot or can I get hotspot on the Sprint one or do I need to search for the perfect app to do it? Which would be easier?
Unlocked version:
Hotspot - Awesome
Download Booster - Awesome
No Bloat - Awesome
Wi-Fi Calling - working awesomely
Sprint Version:
LTE Calling - I might miss, might be worth flashing Sprint mod when available...
Please Advise.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, I can't provide any guidance in this area. I'm in Australia and don't have experience with the inclusions/exclusions on specific American networks such as Sprint. I do know they use CDMA technology, which the Exynos SoC doesn't support.
Hopefully, one of the other enlightened souls on this forum can help you with this question.
AtlantaBB said:
Last question. I saw on another thread that this ... Is this true? Should I buy one that is unlocked from Amazon or the Samsung site and get hotspot or can I get hotspot on the Sprint one or do I need to search for the perfect app to do it? Which would be easier?
Unlocked version:
Hotspot - Awesome
Download Booster - Awesome
No Bloat - Awesome
Wi-Fi Calling - working awesomely
Sprint Version:
LTE Calling - I might miss, might be worth flashing Sprint mod when available...
Please Advise.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am on Sprint and am currently utilizing what I posted above as working...I am still finding out other working options as well...ask me about an option and I'll tell you if it is working on the unlocked version.
BlueFox721 said:
I am on Sprint and am currently utilizing what I posted above as working...I am still finding out other working options as well...ask me about an option and I'll tell you if it is working on the unlocked version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My question is do I need to get the unlocked version for hot spot to work or will it work with the Sprint version?
Torquemada288 said:
Sorry, I can't provide any guidance in this area. I'm in Australia and don't have experience with the inclusions/exclusions on specific American networks such as Sprint. I do know they use CDMA technology, which the Exynos SoC doesn't support.
Hopefully, one of the other enlightened souls on this forum can help you with this question.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the heads up. I really appreciate it.
AtlantaBB said:
My question is do I need to get the unlocked version for hot spot to work or will it work with the Sprint version?
Thanks for the heads up. I really appreciate it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Sprint Version will cut out the download booster and hot spot unless your plan includes it but include calling plus features which include their version of the Wi-Fi Calling and LTE Calling for surfing over calls....but we already have that with Wi-Fi calling...Sprint also has Bloat software such as VVM but I install Google Voice for voicmail...it is up to you...at this point I have found no function lost.
Oops...I forgot to mention that they may update more frequently or sooner
BlueFox721 said:
The Sprint Version will cut out the download booster and hot spot unless your plan includes it but include calling plus features which include their version of the Wi-Fi Calling and LTE Calling for surfing over calls....but we already have that with Wi-Fi calling...Sprint also has Bloat software such as VVM but I install Google Voice for voicmail...it is up to you...at this point I have found no function lost.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is extremely important. Do I have this right? If I buy the unlocked version. Can I surf the internet while on the phone with the unlocked version from Amazon or Samsung or do I need to buy the Spring Version?
Am I understanding that right or did you mean something else?
AtlantaBB said:
That is extremely important. Do I have this right? If I buy the unlocked version. Can I surf the internet while on the phone with the unlocked version from Amazon or Samsung or do I need to buy the Spring Version?
Am I understanding that right or did you mean something else?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When I called my wife on Wi-Fi Calling i was able to surf the web as well...I'll double check tomorrow when she is awake though
I have the unlocked version arriving soon and I will be using it with sprint. (With the free 1 year promo)
AFIK only the sprint and unlocked versions are whitelisted to work on sprint. Any other snapdragon models you will need to request a manual request to add your IMEI to the sprint database.
And I believe the Exynos models isn't compatible with CDMA at all, something with licensing or patent issues with Qualcomm.
BlueFox721 said:
When I called my wife on Wi-Fi Calling i was able to surf the web as well...I'll double check tomorrow when she is awake though
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh I mean not on wifi - calling I am just talking about 4G LTE. I mean I have the note 3 right now. LOL. I know super old. I can talk on the cell network 4G LTE and surf the internet at the same time. Can you do that with the Unlocked Version and the Sprint Version or one or the other?
Agenesis said:
I have the unlocked version arriving soon and I will be using it with sprint. (With the free 1 year promo)
AFIK only the sprint and unlocked versions are whitelisted to work on sprint. Any other snapdragon models you will need to request a manual request to add your IMEI to the sprint database.
And I believe the Exynos models isn't compatible with CDMA at all, something with licensing or patent issues with Qualcomm.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So the one from Amazon or Samsung, you should be fine, Yes the Exyons wont work. That is a bummer.
AtlantaBB said:
Oh I mean not on wifi - calling I am just talking about 4G LTE. I mean I have the note 3 right now. LOL. I know super old. I can talk on the cell network 4G LTE and surf the internet at the same time. Can you do that with the Unlocked Version and the Sprint Version or one or the other?
So the one from Amazon or Samsung, you should be fine, Yes the Exyons wont work. That is a bummer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since the Note 3 call over data was lost...so they have been trying to implement it in New technologies
https://www.androidcentral.com/volte
BlueFox721 said:
Since the Note 3 call over data was lost...so they have been trying to implement it in New technologies
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you serious. I will be giving up call over data? WHY? Is this like that for Verizon and AT&T? Have they all lost call over data or do they just not want you to be able to do it?
Should I keep my Note 3 for that very reason?
Does any phone like the S8 or S8 Plus have call over data?
AtlantaBB said:
Are you serious. I will be giving up call over data? WHY? Is this like that for Verizon and AT&T? Have they all lost call over data or do they just not want you to be able to do it?
Should I keep my Note 3 for that very reason?
Does any phone like the S8 or S8 Plus have call over data?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
https://www.androidcentral.com/volte
I am coming from Note 3 as well
BlueFox721 said:
Since the Note 3 call over data was lost...so they have been trying to implement it in New technologies
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh my goodness, looks like my note 3 has two antennas and the newer phones have only 1. that is why i can do both. Why would they make the service worse?
https://community.sprint.com/t5/Buz...e-same-time-with-Sprint-s-Calling/ba-p/961338
The Note 8 wipes the Note 3 out
Which would you guys say is better, tmob will still do the bogo today if I get it or I can just go to best buy and get the unlocked one? So two notes or one note that I can properly root.
RiffyDivine said:
Which would you guys say is better, tmob will still do the bogo today if I get it or I can just go to best buy and get the unlocked one? So two notes or one note that I can properly root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i might be wrong as i live in the UK, but an unlocked one from best buy will be no better off to root than the tmobile one?
the "unlocked" does not mean the bootloader is unlocked
both are snapdragon correct? There is a root available but i would recommend you buy an N950F or FD (Exynos) if your main focus is root and custom roms.
Lucky you! I would get just one
Mr.Ash.Man said:
i might be wrong as i live in the UK, but an unlocked one from best buy will be no better off to root than the tmobile one?
the "unlocked" does not mean the bootloader is unlocked
both are snapdragon correct? There is a root available but i would recommend you buy an N950F or FD (Exynos) if your main focus is root and custom roms.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's listed with the exynos but that maybe an error on their site.
First of all BOGO deal has some restrictions, not every plan qualifies, you should really read fine print, or head to Tmo forum and look there for details. I also don't think BB would be selling phone that doesn't work on half of US networks, so make sure you make your decisions based on correct info.
T mobile has a lot of stipulations with the BOGO. I purchased a t mobile variant directly from Samsung. They have a finance program 0% for 24 months. I also had a note 7 so I was able to get a nice discount as well. I almost went with an unlocked from Samsung(same as best buy) but I wanted all my carrier features. Plus since I bought the phone from Samsung, I was able to SIM unlock my t mobile note 8 within days of receiving it. Plus if I really wanted, I could always flash the unlocked firmware on to this device if I wanted it De bloated which I might end up doing. I use video calling a lot with my family and it doesn't worked on the Unlocked firmware but I recently started using google DUO which is way better video calling quality anyway. I know using t mobile on the unlocked firmware, WI fi calling, VOLTE hd voice does work which is the most important to me. I'm pretty sure mobile hotspot works as well but not sure.
RiffyDivine said:
Which would you guys say is better, tmob will still do the bogo today if I get it or I can just go to best buy and get the unlocked one? So two notes or one note that I can properly root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have to jump through hoops for T-Mobile's BOGO, if you can wait Samsung will have a BOGO for the Note 8 just like they did for the S8+ and you won't have to add a line like the T-Mobile.
I recently purchased 4 brand new sprint note 8's from Ebay (for a small company). In hindsight I think I should of opted for the unlocked version but I'm here now. My question is what would it take to unlock the phones and flash with unlocked software? I ask because I'm a little PO'ed that sprint takes away a few features native to Samsung (looking at you Hyia caller id). There's apps that can take care of all that, but that's besides the point.
I'm looking for pro's and cons to what that would do. Coming from a rooted S6 and having played with the note 8 I didn't see any reason to root until now. But I think if I root it locks me out of other features? Samsung Pay? And sprint won't fix if I make any insurance claim?
Is there any way to go through all that and then turn root back off? Again, coming from the S6 as my last bit of rooting experience (couldn't turn knox counter off, so Samsung pay never worked....).
Any suggestions?
tl;dr, should probably go with unlocked phones next time to avoid the bs
rob.mwpropane said:
should probably go with unlocked phones next time to avoid the bs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Search function in the forum. Look for carrier switching. Are you using them for sprint?
If you go to unlocked XXA you will get the other features but loose wifi-calling and sprint calling plus.
You can download the new sprint zone form play store now so thats a non issue.
If you understand how to put together your own flash-able rom you could pull the stuff for sprint and add to xxa and get both parts but its not something ive seen floating around here.
Ultimately sprint has a paid version of Samsung feature for the caller id part, if thats the only thing you want there are a ton of other free alternative. (soft fix) Sprint isn't going to fix a personal issue you have with their device setup lol, they charge for premium caller id and Samsung/sprint wont change that part, most carriers charge for it as its "premium"
I have a optimized rom for the note 8 (sprint users) but you will be limited to 80% battery charge, spay and secure folder are broken. With the new safestrap recovery you can atleast un-root and re-root from the device to get around apps that scan for root and be able to use them, with my custom rom having edits in /system you will never achieve spay etc , this is reversible by just odin to stock software again and back to stock, the current root methods do not effect knox or warranty.
If i unlocked it can i use gsm sim form Bangladesh?
Hello Friends,
Firstly, forgive me if these questions have been asked 100 times. I see a lot of chat about the TMO version but not ATT. Here we go, recently I ordered and received the Unlocked SM-N960F/DS 512GB with Exynos SOC and the phone was absolutely awesome but slow as hell. Unfortunately, I could barely get a reliable signal on AT&T in my city and of course because of the international origin of the phone, none of the carrier features were available like VOLTE, WiFi Calling, HD calling etc. Since then, I’ve returned the phone for a full refund. I am still dead set on purchasing another Note 9 but for the past several days I’ve been wrecking my brain trying to figure which firmware version to get. I am trying with all my might not to buy the locked ATT version SM-N960UZBFATT. Is the unlocked SM-960U version still capable of 4G LTE, VOLTE, WiFi calling, etc? I was also possibly looking at the SM-N9600 but I realize that’s just an unlocked international version with the snapdragon SOC. Any advice or suggestions would be appreciated. I really want to make a decision by Black Friday!Thanks!
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
First of all, had you kept your N960F/DS, this mod would have helped you to get all the carrier features working. This mod supposedly work on N9600 as well but judging from the smaller number of dev threads regarding N9600 I'm not sure it'll be a better deal. You should always check for LTE signals on your previous device, taking note the signal strength and which bands it connect to, and check the new device's spec sheet and see if it support the bands.
I really liked that phone so this news is a definite blow! I have a OnePlus 5T that I am currently using until I decide what to do next. Is there an app that would allow me to see which LTE bands I'm connected to so I can make a comparison? I was leaning towards not having to root the phone or unlock the BL so that I could maintain Samsung Pay, Secured Folder, OTA etc. I looked at the link and I've been flashing for years but all the firmware numbers and instructions looked mind boggling to me. Don't want to screw up $1000 phone! Thanks for your input
kgptzac said:
First of all, had you kept your N960F/DS, this mod would have helped you to get all the carrier features working. This mod supposedly work on N9600 as well but judging from the smaller number of dev threads regarding N9600 I'm not sure it'll be a better deal. You should always check for LTE signals on your previous device, taking note the signal strength and which bands it connect to, and check the new device's spec sheet and see if it support the bands.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my ONEPLUS A5010 using Tapatalk
dcscorpio76 said:
I really liked that phone so this news is a definite blow! I have a OnePlus 5T that I am currently using until I decide what to do next. Is there an app that would allow me to see which LTE bands I'm connected to so I can make a comparison? I was leaning towards not having to root the phone or unlock the BL so that I could maintain Samsung Pay, Secured Folder, OTA etc. I looked at the link and I've been flashing for years but all the firmware numbers and instructions looked mind boggling to me. Don't want to screw up $1000 phone! Thanks for your input
Sent from my ONEPLUS A5010 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you don't need root and just want everything to work right, then you might as well get the variant used by your carrier (U.S. Snapdragon). Unless there was a specific reason for wanting a different variant like the Exynos model?
sefrcoko said:
If you don't need root and just want everything to work right, then you might as well get the variant used by your carrier (U.S. Snapdragon). Unless there was a specific reason for wanting a different variant like the Exynos model?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I previously ordered the Exynos model because I read that the BL was unlockable and root was available. The Note 9 itself is amazing and after having the phone for a week, I realized that I actually didn’t mind Knox, Secure folder, OTA, and Samsung Pay. For the first time in many years I considered not rooting the phone. The issue I had with the Exynos was the very poor LTE signal and lack of carrier features I had on my OnePlus 5T like VOLTE, WiFi calling, etc on AT&T. The 4G signal was dismal at best and slow like 3G. That was a dealbreaker and enough for me to send the phone back. I know I want the Note 9, I just need the US version that’s optimized for AT&T I think but at the risk of locked BL. I’ve been eyeing the unlocked model that ends in FXAA but the BL is stilled locked but will be easier to sell when time to upgrade. I’ve also been debating purchasing the N9600 to keep my rooting options open in case I get that itch. I’ve always purchased unlocked phones that I could root and unlock the BL and I know the locked ATT version will never allow it. Earlier, there was a great suggestion made to use a mod that would introduce all of the carrier features to the unlocked models. My only issue with that is tripping Knox and losing the Security features of the phone along with the warranty and Samsung Pay so I’m really debating with what I should do.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
dcscorpio76 said:
I really liked that phone so this news is a definite blow! I have a OnePlus 5T that I am currently using until I decide what to do next. Is there an app that would allow me to see which LTE bands I'm connected to so I can make a comparison? I was leaning towards not having to root the phone or unlock the BL so that I could maintain Samsung Pay, Secured Folder, OTA etc. I looked at the link and I've been flashing for years but all the firmware numbers and instructions looked mind boggling to me. Don't want to screw up $1000 phone! Thanks for your input
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LTE DISCOVERY app
dcscorpio76 said:
I previously ordered the Exynos model because I read that the BL was unlockable and root was available. The Note 9 itself is amazing and after having the phone for a week, I realized that I actually didn’t mind Knox, Secure folder, OTA, and Samsung Pay. For the first time in many years I considered not rooting the phone. The issue I had with the Exynos was the very poor LTE signal and lack of carrier features I had on my OnePlus 5T like VOLTE, WiFi calling, etc on AT&T. The 4G signal was dismal at best and slow like 3G. That was a dealbreaker and enough for me to send the phone back. I know I want the Note 9, I just need the US version that’s optimized for AT&T I think but at the risk of locked BL. I’ve been eyeing the unlocked model that ends in FXAA but the BL is stilled locked but will be easier to sell when time to upgrade. I’ve also been debating purchasing the N9600 to keep my rooting options open in case I get that itch. I’ve always purchased unlocked phones that I could root and unlock the BL and I know the locked ATT version will never allow it. Earlier, there was a great suggestion made to use a mod that would introduce all of the carrier features to the unlocked models. My only issue with that is tripping Knox and losing the Security features of the phone along with the warranty and Samsung Pay so I’m really debating with what I should do.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
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I have to say that i am surprised that you have bad network speeds on a. Unlocked model of the Note 9 in the states. I've been using the FD model for about two weeks now and haven't noticed a difference in streaming YouTube, Netflix, browsing Facebook, etc. There is only one spot on my fault train ride that I noticed i have slow speeds but it only last for about 20 seconds. Need to get a second device to see if it's the phone or the network. Other than that it's been great.
Sent from my SM-N960F using Tapatalk
daniel4653 said:
I have to say that i am surprised that you have bad network speeds on a. Unlocked model of the Note 9 in the states. I've been using the FD model for about two weeks now and haven't noticed a difference in streaming YouTube, Netflix, browsing Facebook, etc. There is only one spot on my fault train ride that I noticed i have slow speeds but it only last for about 20 seconds. Need to get a second device to see if it's the phone or the network. Other than that it's been great.
Sent from my SM-N960F using Tapatalk
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Depends on the carrier...many are perfectly fine, but users reported issues with others (due to bands and carrier aggregation I believe).
I agree with this. It seems that TMO is best suited for this unlocked device in the states. Unfortunately I have AT&T and the network really seems to suffer if you're not using a branded AT&T phone. I was leaning on going with the US unlocked model and just pop my sim in to see if I can at least get LTE but like I stated, I'm usually a root and flash guy. I really see no reason for this on the Note 9 and that's saying a lot for me as just about every phone I've had over the last 10 years has been modified to some extent. Because of that, I thought I'd keep my options open for the N9600 since the BL can be unlocked but at least it has the Snapdragon. Then again my worry with that is the same that I experienced with the N960F/DS I just returned which was the extremely poor signal. I appreciate the conversations here. Please enlighten me!
OP. Any reason why you need a BL unlocked device?
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Initially I thought I'd root the phone and be able to modify some things to my liking as well as be able to use Vanced YouTube and a few other root apps I'm use to but like I said with my limited use of the phone I felt like it wasn't necessary. The carrier features are more important than the BL IMO so it's down to the US unlocked (FXAA) and the N9600 with Snapdragon but unlockable BL in case I ever get the itch for root. I hope I explained that craziness so you understand [emoji23]
Limeybastard said:
OP. Any reason why you need a BL unlocked device?
Sent from my SM-N960U1 using Tapatalk
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Sent from my ONEPLUS A5010 using Tapatalk
If this isn't the right forum please direct me to the right one
I go out of rooting my phone a while ago and went to go root my G6 to find out that it's not rootable. Moreover recently I found that Verison is blocking the bootloader on pretty much all of its phones. I looked at the Note 9 and I really like it but I want to be able to root it and everything. is there a way that I can get a note 9 and use it with full functionality (IDC about the Samsung pay and that stuff though, just the speeds and connectivity) in the US. i am willing to change carriers to Tmobile, but I have also heard something about the N960F not able to use band aggregation in the US. If i want to root and have a good phone will i have to go all the way back to the nexus 6p or are there other modern phones that can do this?
Rein_of_fire said:
If this isn't the right forum please direct me to the right one
I go out of rooting my phone a while ago and went to go root my G6 to find out that it's not rootable. Moreover recently I found that Verison is blocking the bootloader on pretty much all of its phones. I looked at the Note 9 and I really like it but I want to be able to root it and everything. is there a way that I can get a note 9 and use it with full functionality (IDC about the Samsung pay and that stuff though, just the speeds and connectivity) in the US. i am willing to change carriers to Tmobile, but I have also heard something about the N960F not able to use band aggregation in the US. If i want to root and have a good phone will i have to go all the way back to the nexus 6p or are there other modern phones that can do this?
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You can get the SM-N9600 and root that phone. Then you will be able to get wifi calling and 4g+ with it also being rooted. This version is th HK one. I have this version and so far everything is good and I like the purchase I made. You can find some on Swappa (which is where I bought mine for $715).
Do please though research on which phone you prefer and what root options are available for that phone.
Rein_of_fire said:
If this isn't the right forum please direct me to the right one
I go out of rooting my phone a while ago and went to go root my G6 to find out that it's not rootable. Moreover recently I found that Verison is blocking the bootloader on pretty much all of its phones. I looked at the Note 9 and I really like it but I want to be able to root it and everything. is there a way that I can get a note 9 and use it with full functionality (IDC about the Samsung pay and that stuff though, just the speeds and connectivity) in the US. i am willing to change carriers to Tmobile, but I have also heard something about the N960F not able to use band aggregation in the US. If i want to root and have a good phone will i have to go all the way back to the nexus 6p or are there other modern phones that can do this?
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We haven't been able to unlock bootloader on Samsung devices for a few years now.
I should say US Samsung devices. I meant to clarify that.