Unlocked Note 9 SM-N960U1 Doesn't work on any network - Samsung Galaxy Note 9 Questions & Answers

I purchased an unlocked Note 9 and all the networks tell me it won't work on any of theirs. AT&T, US Cellular, Verizon, Net10 all say no. I put my AT&T sim in and it works with low signal. Why would it not work? How do I figure out where this phone originated? I suspect Sprint because any phone from Sprint only works on Sprint.

gonka95 said:
I purchased an unlocked Note 9 and all the networks tell me it won't work on any of theirs. AT&T, US Cellular, Verizon, Net10 all say no. I put my AT&T sim in and it works with low signal. Why would it not work? How do I figure out where this phone originated? I suspect Sprint because any phone from Sprint only works on Sprint.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you try a T-Mobile SIM card?
Sent from my SM-N960U1 using Tapatalk

Where did you buy it?
Have you Googled the model number?

gonka95 said:
I purchased an unlocked Note 9 and all the networks tell me it won't work on any of theirs. AT&T, US Cellular, Verizon, Net10 all say no. I put my AT&T sim in and it works with low signal. Why would it not work? How do I figure out where this phone originated? I suspect Sprint because any phone from Sprint only works on Sprint.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Go to this site and run the IMEI. It will tell you if it's actually a U1 model or if it's a carrier model.
http://imeipro.info/samsung_imei_check.html
Whichever it is, you can just flash the ATT firmware, and it will work perfect on ATT. All the N960U and U1s are identical. Just different firmware.

Mr. Orange 645 said:
Go to this site and run the IMEI. It will tell you if it's actually a U1 model or if it's a carrier model.
http://imeipro.info/samsung_imei_check.html
Whichever it is, you can just flash the ATT firmware, and it will work perfect on ATT. All the N960U and U1s are identical. Just different firmware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sprint, that's why I'm having issues with it. I purchased via Amazon. I managed to get it working on Net10 wireless CDMA, so it'll work. Had to activate with my S8+ though. Thanks for the link, that helped!

gonka95 said:
Sprint, that's why I'm having issues with it. I purchased via Amazon. I managed to get it working on Net10 wireless CDMA, so it'll work. Had to activate with my S8+ though. Thanks for the link, that helped!
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Click to collapse
Well, if you want it to work on ATT, just flash the ATT firmware. Not sure why it won't work with the U1 firmware though.

Mr. Orange 645 said:
Well, if you want it to work on ATT, just flash the ATT firmware. Not sure why it won't work with the U1 firmware though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does it need root? And it has the SM-N960U1UEU1ARJ5 Baseband Version? Thanks in advanced!

gonka95 said:
Does it need root? And it has the SM-N960U1UEU1ARJ5 Baseband Version? Thanks in advanced!
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Click to collapse
Well you CAN'T root it, but no. You don't need root to flash official firmware with ODIN.

gonka95 said:
I purchased an unlocked Note 9 and all the networks tell me it won't work on any of theirs. AT&T, US Cellular, Verizon, Net10 all say no. I put my AT&T sim in and it works with low signal. Why would it not work? How do I figure out where this phone originated? I suspect Sprint because any phone from Sprint only works on Sprint.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So if you got it with flash for sprint then maybe you need flash what was originally on this model?
I have the very same model and I just put in my LTE Verizon SIM and it worked right away.
This model is a boot locked, carrier unlocked, world band snapdragon version, that was never originally touched by any carrier.
I.E. No carrier bloat ware. SM-N960U1

rusty.gh said:
So if you got it with flash for sprint then maybe you need flash what was originally on this model?
I have the very same model and I just put in my LTE Verizon SIM and it worked right away.
This model is a boot locked, carrier unlocked, world band snapdragon version, that was never originally touched by any carrier.
I.E. No carrier bloat ware. SM-N960U1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I flashed AT&T but cannot get wifi calling. I ordered an AT&T one through Samsung last night. I'll return this one when I get it. The back of this phone says it's an N960U.
I forgot how crappy carriers are. AT&T unlocked my iPhone but no longer recognizes it. So, I can't get wifi calling to work before switching the sim.
Thanks a bunch to everyone for their input and workarounds! Have been out of the loop for a while.

gonka95 said:
I flashed AT&T but cannot get wifi calling. I ordered an AT&T one through Samsung last night. I'll return this one when I get it. The back of this phone says it's an N960U.
I forgot how crappy carriers are. AT&T unlocked my iPhone but no longer recognizes it. So, I can't get wifi calling to work before switching the sim.
Thanks a bunch to everyone for their input and workarounds! Have been out of the loop for a while.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh, my bad, yeah the "U" models do say you might lose Wifi calling. Good it worked out for you!
I would be disappointed if I needed Wifi calling, I use the cell line 24/7 here in the US everywhere I go.
I feel like Wifi calling is just giving my carrier a break.

gonka95 said:
I flashed AT&T but cannot get wifi calling. I ordered an AT&T one through Samsung last night. I'll return this one when I get it. The back of this phone says it's an N960U.
I forgot how crappy carriers are. AT&T unlocked my iPhone but no longer recognizes it. So, I can't get wifi calling to work before switching the sim.
Thanks a bunch to everyone for their input and workarounds! Have been out of the loop for a while.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's actually a way to get WiFi calling on it working again. Look through the carrier switching threads in the Note 8 forums.
It's why I hate ATT and love T-Mobile. Everything works out of the box on T-Mo.

rusty.gh said:
Oh, my bad, yeah the "U" models do say you might lose Wifi calling. Good it worked out for you!
I would be disappointed if I needed Wifi calling, I use the cell line 24/7 here in the US everywhere I go.
I feel like Wifi calling is just giving my carrier a break.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well to be fair there will be places where signal will be weak or non and then you will be the one loosing.
They don't look at break is just way for the customers to get better signal every where they go or inside whatever tipe of building...

gonka95 said:
I purchased an unlocked Note 9 and all the networks tell me it won't work on any of theirs. AT&T, US Cellular, Verizon, Net10 all say no. I put my AT&T sim in and it works with low signal. Why would it not work? How do I figure out where this phone originated? I suspect Sprint because any phone from Sprint only works on Sprint.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mr. Orange 645 said:
Go to this site and run the IMEI. It will tell you if it's actually a U1 model or if it's a carrier model.
http://imeipro.info/samsung_imei_check.html
Whichever it is, you can just flash the ATT firmware, and it will work perfect on ATT. All the N960U and U1s are identical. Just different firmware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I also purchased an unlocked Note 9 on ebay. In "about phone", the model number is listed as SM-N960U1. On the back of the phone, it's SM-N960U.
The sites that tell you the model with the IMEI number are right, it's a Sprint phone. Samsung customer support said the same thing. However, the Sprint phone and the US unlocked phone share the same FCC ID.
Does that mean, they are the same radio hardware? Is it just the firmware that makes the difference in band capability? If you flashed the US unlocked version of baseband, would it be identical to the US unlocked version? I just want to make double sure!

mraeryceos said:
I also purchased an unlocked Note 9 on ebay. In "about phone", the model number is listed as SM-N960U1. On the back of the phone, it's SM-N960U.
The sites that tell you the model with the IMEI number are right, it's a Sprint phone. Samsung customer support said the same thing. However, the Sprint phone and the US unlocked phone share the same FCC ID.
Does that mean, they are the same radio hardware? Is it just the firmware that makes the difference in band capability? If you flashed the US unlocked version of baseband, would it be identical to the US unlocked version? I just want to make double sure!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Go back and read my post you quoted. It answers the question you just asked.

Mr. Orange 645 said:
Go back and read my post you quoted. It answers the question you just asked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
He thanked you so I'm thinking he saw it.????

Related

Note 8 unlocked

If I buy the unlocked version from Samsung will I be able to use it on ATT and Verizon networks? Will there be a limitations on what LTE bands that the phone can use? Just trying to avoid the bloatware that carriers have on their phones. I have both before mentioned carriers. I really want the note 8 but if I can't use the unlocked version to its full potential. Then I guess I. Will go with the Verizon version. I have been waiting since they took back my note 7 and now I can hardly wait to fill the void lol.
Sent from my Nexus 9 using Tapatalk
Dark Jedi said:
If I buy the unlocked version from Samsung will I be able to use it on ATT and Verizon networks? Will there be a limitations on what LTE bands that the phone can use? Just trying to avoid the bloatware that carriers have on their phones. I have both before mentioned carriers. I really want the note 8 but if I can't use the unlocked version to its full potential. Then I guess I. Will go with the Verizon version. I have been waiting since they took back my note 7 and now I can hardly wait to fill the void lol.
Sent from my Nexus 9 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I recently chatted with a Verizon representative regarding this very question. I asked two key questions.
"Does an unlocked Samsung Galaxy Note 8 work on Verizon networks?"
Essentially the person told me they needed the phone to determine weather or not it would work on the Verizon network; either the MSIN or IMSI number. My belief is there is, most likely, a better answer elsewhere.
"Does Verizon restrict any features on unlocked phone?"
The Verizon representative told me they don't restrict any features for unlocked phones.
I know this still doesn't answer the question you have. Just know that I, and others, also have the same question(s).
mrjmrogers said:
I recently chatted with a Verizon representative regarding this very question. I asked two key questions.
"Does an unlocked Samsung Galaxy Note 8 work on Verizon networks?"
Essentially the person told me they needed the phone to determine weather or not it would work on the Verizon network; either the MSIN or IMSI number. My belief is there is, most likely, a better answer elsewhere.
"Does Verizon restrict any features on unlocked phone?"
The Verizon representative told me they don't restrict any features for unlocked phones.
I know this still doesn't answer the question you have. Just know that I, and others, also have the same question(s).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the reply on your conversation with a Verizon rep on this issue. I will keep my ears open and hope we all can find that answer.
Sent from my Nexus 9 using Tapatalk
Dark Jedi said:
Thanks for the reply on your conversation with a Verizon rep on this issue. I will keep my ears open and hope we all can find that answer.
Sent from my Nexus 9 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is from my chat transcript with Samsung technical support. Yes, an unlocked Note 8 will work with Verizon's network.
...
Amit H: Hi, thank you for reaching out to Samsung Technical Support. How may I assist you?
Amit H: Please excuse us for the long hold. We have had an unusually high volume of chats coming in. I would be happy to assist you with any questions you have about our products.
You: If I order an unlocked Galaxy Note 8 phone, will it work on the Verizon network in North America?
You: no worries. I don't mind the wait.
Amit H: Yes, the Unlocked version of Note 8 phone will work with the Verizon.
You: perfect. Thank you!
Amit H: You are welcome.
...
on AT&T , from experience, you lose wifi calling. thats about it.
I am interested to know if the unlocked is a DUAL SIM
ekerbuddyeker said:
on AT&T , from experience, you lose wifi calling. thats about it.
I am interested to know if the unlocked is a DUAL SIM
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From all the spec pages i've looked at, YES the unlocked version has DUAL SIM.
where did you see the SPEC pages. does anyone know where the bands are listed - want to compare what the unlocked and AT&T versions have (or miss)
ekerbuddyeker said:
on AT&T , from experience, you lose wifi calling. thats about it.
I am interested to know if the unlocked is a DUAL SIM
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've also been told that you lose WiFi Calling with unlocked phones on Verizon's network as well. Can anyone confirm this? I know for a lot of people Wifi Calling doesn't matter much, but when cell service is spotty my LG V20 often switches over to WiFi for the duration of the call.
I don't think there are any other Verizon features I use other than WiFi Calling, and I'd hate to lose it. But I also hate all the Verizon bloatware.
Only lose wifi calling and any bloatware that the provider puts on them. That’s all. All the bands are there.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
i was not able to use video calling on my unlocked s7 edge on t mobile. i was able to use wifi calling though
ekerbuddyeker said:
where did you see the SPEC pages. does anyone know where the bands are listed - want to compare what the unlocked and AT&T versions have (or miss)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here is one example from the BestBuy website.
https://www.bestbuy.com/site/samsung-galaxy-note8-64gb-unlocked-orchid-gray/6002607.p?skuId=6002607
Click on Specifications, then look under Compatibility.
Does the unlocked note 8 come with a unlockable bootloader?
Be interesting if you could actually get wifi calling to work. I definetly need it as service is spotty in certain places of my house. Have Verizon but I'm paying outright regardless so it'd be the same price.
What about updates? I know for the unlocked S7, the updates were actually slower than the carrier branded, which is actually kinda crazy.
Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk
I jumped on the unlocked version; on T-Mobile. Now I'm wondering if I made the right decision.
I just pre-ordered the unlocked version through samsung's website. I will be using it with AT&T. I was going to order it through best buy but when i visited the samsung site they had the freebies ready to ship with the order as well.
treoreloaded said:
I just pre-ordered the unlocked version through samsung's website. I will be using it with AT&T. I was going to order it through best buy but when i visited the samsung site they had the freebies ready to ship with the order as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi!
I'm thinking of doing same. Do you have exact model #? Also, when you say "unlocked" do you mean SIM unlocked or is it also "BOOTLOADER" unlocked, or both?
If you don't know, can you send link ?
TIA for your response.
LouK said:
Hi!
I'm thinking of doing same. Do you have exact model #? Also, when you say "unlocked" do you mean SIM unlocked or is it also "BOOTLOADER" unlocked, or both?
If you don't know, can you send link ?
TIA for your response.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just preordered the unlocked version from Samsung.com as well. http://www.samsung.com/us/galaxy/note8/buy/ It was $960.00 for the Sprint version or $929.99 for Unlocked. I chatted online with customer service and they said the only difference with the Unlocked version was the lack of carrier apps (carrier bloat). Unlocked means Carrier/SIM Unlocked. Unless Samsung had a miraculous change of heart, the bootloader will be locked just like the Snapdragon Note 7, S7, & S8.
LouK said:
Hi!
I'm thinking of doing same. Do you have exact model #? Also, when you say "unlocked" do you mean SIM unlocked or is it also "BOOTLOADER" unlocked, or both?
If you don't know, can you send link ?
TIA for your response.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
He means sim unlocked.
There is no bootloader unlocked NA device.
sent from my Note FE, S8 plus, or S6
When I saw that the unlocked version worked on Verizon, I was surprised until I saw that the processor on the unlocked Note 8 is Qualcomm Snapdragon and not Exynos.

flash stock firmware on Verizon variant

Hello all, is it possibly to Odin stock firmware on Verizon variant?
Yes. it wont carrier unlock your phone though
me2151 said:
Yes. it wont carrier unlock your phone though
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thought Verizon phones were already carrier unlocked?
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
dottat said:
Thought Verizon phones were already carrier unlocked?
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you buy a phone through a carrier its generally not unlocked. Verizon might be different
me2151 said:
If you buy a phone through a carrier its generally not unlocked. Verizon might be different
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep so when I supported Verizon devices the one thing that always struck me odd was how many went overseas and out of the us. It was because they were sim unlocked from get go.
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
me2151 said:
If you buy a phone through a carrier its generally not unlocked. Verizon might be different
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Verizon phones are always carrier unlocked by default. It has something to do with an agreement they sign with the fcc back in the day. All 4g lte phones have to be unlocked by default for Verizon.
dottat said:
Yep so when I supported Verizon devices the one thing that always struck me odd was how many went overseas and out of the us. It was because they were sim unlocked from get go.
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
TechBSwift said:
Verizon phones are always carrier unlocked by default. It has something to do with an agreement they sign with the fcc back in the day. All 4g lte phones have to be unlocked by default for Verizon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interesting. Thanks for this info. TIL.
On a slightly similar topic, I have a Verizon Note 8 (that is unlocked, already checked with my t-mobile sim), and I wanted to verify a couple of things. If I were to flash, via odin, the stock non-carrier firmware, will it basically be the same as what you would get from Samsung (i.e. an unlocked note 8)? The main reason I ask, is there are various flashing processes on xda, from unlocked firmware, carrier firmware (which I assume is refereed to as stock in certain xda threads), and carrier switching. Is the carrier switching processes only required when you want to specifically run the carrier firmware? (and thus changing the csc value). If you already have a carrier branded sim unlocked note 8, all one needs to do (to make sure it works as any other unlocked note 8) is to install the Samsung unlocked firmware?
In other words, if I flash the stock unlocked Samsung firmware on my sim unlocked Verizon note 8, will it work on t-mobile with all of the supported bands, etc.? (it is my understanding that carrier features on t-mobile work fine on unlocked samsung phones, such as wifi calling, volte, etc.) Or would I also need to load the userdata file to get those features?
I have searched and read so many threads, and sometimes I feel like I got it all figured out, and then I read threads that seem to confuse the whole situation.... (and most threads seem to be revolving around carrier branded vs an unlocked phone, or sim unlocking a carrier branded phone)

Unlocked T-Mobile Note 8 on Sprint

I have this same question asked in the T-Mobile forum but wasn't sure if that's the right spot.
I have been reading a lot of different things about doing this with no definitive answer. It looks like, as of recently, it should be as simple as popping in the sprint Sim card and it should work but I want to be sure before hand. Are there any downsides at all about using tmobile Note 8 on Sprint?
cmdauria said:
I have this same question asked in the T-Mobile forum but wasn't sure if that's the right spot.
I have been reading a lot of different things about doing this with no definitive answer. It looks like, as of recently, it should be as simple as popping in the sprint Sim card and it should work but I want to be sure before hand. Are there any downsides at all about using tmobile Note 8 on Sprint?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To be truthful, there is most likely no downsides of using a Tmobile Samsung Galaxy Note 8 on the Sprint Network. You should be good to go! :good:
It won't work unfortunately. I also believed it was as simple as sticking an Activated Sprint SIM in the T-Mo N8, but Sprint has a different system. Another user was having issues with a VZW N8, so I did some research, and even though hardware wise they are all the exact same phone, Sprints system will only accept IMEIs from Sprint N8s and factory unlocked N8s. An IMEI from any other carrier will not activate.
So glad I have T-Mobile.
---------- Post added at 11:42 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:42 PM ----------
cmdauria said:
I have this same question asked in the T-Mobile forum but wasn't sure if that's the right spot.
I have been reading a lot of different things about doing this with no definitive answer. It looks like, as of recently, it should be as simple as popping in the sprint Sim card and it should work but I want to be sure before hand. Are there any downsides at all about using tmobile Note 8 on Sprint?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
..
Mr. Orange 645 said:
It won't work unfortunately. I also believed it was as simple as sticking an Activated Sprint SIM in the T-Mo N8, but Sprint has a different system. Another user was having issues with a VZW N8, so I did some research, and even though hardware wise they are all the exact same phone, Sprints system will only accept IMEIs from Sprint N8s and factory unlocked N8s. An IMEI from any other carrier will not activate.
So glad I have T-Mobile.
---------- Post added at 11:42 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:42 PM ----------
..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There have been others that successfully activates...it will just show a generic pic and some features may not work...otherwise Sprint's byod would be a bust...some iemi's might not be accepted do to contract issues, or being internationally unlocked instead of SIM unlocked...other issues may be the cause as well..but others with ATT, Verizon, and T-Mobile devices have activated on Sprint or other carrier with just a SIM...adding IEMI to Sprint database just ensures working features...although, some have had to use a non-active Sprint IEMI to activate their non-Sprint device...still, less fuss with swapping out to a Sprint or factory unlocked device...good luck
BlueFox721 said:
There have been others that successfully activates...it will just show a generic pic and some features may not work...otherwise Sprint's byod would be a bust...some iemi's might not be accepted do to contract issues, or being internationally unlocked instead of SIM unlocked...other issues may be the cause as well..but others with ATT, Verizon, and T-Mobile devices have activated on Sprint or other carrier with just a SIM...adding IEMI to Sprint database just ensures working features...although, some have had to use a non-active Sprint IEMI to activate their non-Sprint device...still, less fuss with swapping out to a Sprint or factory unlocked device...good luck
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not according to another Sprint user here. He tried everything and it wouldn't work. Do some research, especially on Reddit. Unless it's an unlocked 950U1 or a Sprint Note 8, it will not activate on their network.
I thought the same as you, until I researched it.
Mr. Orange 645 said:
Not according to another Sprint user here. He tried everything and it wouldn't work. Do some research, especially on Reddit. Unless it's an unlocked 950U1 or a Sprint Note 8, it will not activate on their network.
I thought the same as you, until I researched it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sprint's website states that BYOD is only accepting IMEIs from the Special Edition of the Note 8...no carrier restrictions...same as S8 and S8+...that restriction may lift after acceptable number of sales of Sprint devices...(1yr later)...but no help now...
Changing imei as I suggested before does not work for Sprint either...just gsm carriers...at least the paid service....and I do research all the time...and if you get a rep that will do it...they can...they just won't because of proprietary sales restrictions...according to Sprint's internal whitesheets...more reliable than online blogs...I have gotten Sprint to Activate a Verizon S7 edge when they weren't supposed to...you just have to go through hoops....they are picky with newer devices though...power with persuasion....
If anyone is still wondering, if you flash the (all carrier no bloat ware) unlocked version of the Note 8 firmware it will work with Sprint. You just need a compatible Sprint sim card. That sim card model number needed is 416Q, same as Galaxy S8 sim.
whatsitsnamenow said:
If anyone is still wondering, if you flash the (all carrier no bloat ware) unlocked version of the Note 8 firmware it will work with Sprint. You just need a compatible Sprint sim card. That sim card model number needed is 416Q, same as Galaxy S8 sim.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome
I did read Reddit , posts were from January I think.,and still no solid answer. The byod website says my TMO Note 8 device is compatible with Sprint. But how does one truly know? I don't want to port out to Sprint then find out that it doesn't work.
Mr. Orange 645 said:
Not according to another Sprint user here. He tried everything and it wouldn't work. Do some research, especially on Reddit. Unless it's an unlocked 950U1 or a Sprint Note 8, it will not activate on their network.
I thought the same as you, until I researched it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
I just had a chat with Sprint online support. They we're able to load my Unlocked Tmo branded Note 8 IMEI to the system. They said it is ready for activation. I will pickup a Sprint Sim card later today or tomorrow and report back.
I can confirm that T-Mobile Note 8 will work on Sprint. When I put the new Sprint Sim in it change the splash page and add Sprint apps. It removed all T-Mobile apps
Do you have access to all the Sprint bands?
Which SIM did you buy and where?
Just ordered my two Sprint Kickstarter Sim cards. Should be here on Tuesday, porting in from T-MOBILE. Will be using them on our TMO Note 8 devices.
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
jinftw said:
Do you have access to all the Sprint bands?
Which SIM did you buy and where?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think the phone has all bands. I also tried my Verizon Sim card from my work phone and the Note 8 downloaded all of the Verizon apps and I was able to make calls. It even showed the Verizon splash screen when I turned it on.
Here is a pic of the Sim card packaging. I got it from my local Sprint store.
All works fine. Or so it seems. Connected to band 41 I think currently. Amazing how the Note 8 reconfigure itself.
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
Limeybastard said:
All works fine. Or so it seems. Connected to band 41 I think currently. Amazing how the Note 8 reconfigure itself.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So far I haven't had any issues. How is it going for you?
cert15z said:
So far I haven't had any issues. How is it going for you?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not bad, not as fast as TMO but then again not as expensive. $15 is $15 , right?
Sometimes, my browsing slows right down. Even on hand 41. Loading pages like BBC etc, it stalls.
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
Limeybastard said:
Not bad, not as fast as TMO but then again not as expensive. $15 is $15 , right?
Sometimes, my browsing slows right down. Even on hand 41. Loading pages like BBC etc, it stalls.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I must agree with you. The network is a lot slower than T-Mo. I have a Sprint branded G7 I got from Swappa and it performs the same as T-MO Note 8 I ported over. For $15 per month I can't complain either.
Indeed, we get what we pay for. I'd however never spend $60 plus on Sprint unlimited plan if it were like this.
Moral of story, Sprint ain't worth more than $20 per month.
cert15z said:
I must agree with you. The network is a lot slower than T-Mo. I have a Sprint branded G7 I got from Swappa and it performs the same as T-MO Note 8 I ported over. For $15 per month I can't complain either.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
I have a T-Mobile Note 8 on boost. I just had to buy a new sim from Boost!

AT&T Note 8 to Verizon

I'm having an issues with a Note I just got. I'm looking to switch it from AT&T to Verizon.
I went through AT&T and got the unlock code, put in the Verizon sim and entered the code. After that I went to switch over the phone on Verizon, but they said that my device was not compatible with the Verizon network.
From what I'm aware of, unlocking the phone would work. Has anyone else had an issue with this? Or do I have to go through trying to flash a Verizon firmware?
Model: SM-N950U
Baseband: N950USQU2BQJA
Android 7.11
As long as it's unlocked the device will work on Verizon, but as the phone originated from AT&T, Verizon recognizes the IMEI as not compatible. If you have another verizon device you can activate that one and do a SIM swap.
You may be able to flash the Verizon firmware over, but Verizon still won't activate it on it's own as the IMEI will remain the same. You may be able to get them to add it to the approved list, but that's up to them.
rapdactyl said:
As long as it's unlocked the device will work on Verizon, but as the phone originated from AT&T, Verizon recognizes the IMEI as not compatible. If you have another verizon device you can activate that one and do a SIM swap.
You may be able to flash the Verizon firmware over, but Verizon still won't activate it on it's own as the IMEI will remain the same. You may be able to get them to add it to the approved list, but that's up to them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So if I were to swap over this phone from another one (an S7 that is currently on Verizon to the Note 8), it should work after being unlocked?
asmus101 said:
So if I were to swap over this phone from another one (an S7 that is currently on Verizon to the Note 8), it should work after being unlocked?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup. Pop in your activated VZW SIM card. I would also recommend flashing either the VZWfirmware, or the unlocked 950U1 firmware. ,
Mr. Orange 645 said:
Yup. Pop in your activated VZW SIM card. I would also recommend flashing either the VZWfirmware, or the unlocked 950U1 firmware. ,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could you link me for getting that firmware? I got in contact with Verizon and they said...
I am showing the information as follows: users must have software version of NRD90M.G950USQU2BQK5 or NRD90M.G955USQU2BQK5 before they disconnect their service with the prior carriers (AT&T, T-MO, etc). It also goes on to say that Samsung is working on a workaround so that devices do not have an activation issue but there is no specific date or information that has been resolved.
Would the firmware update fix that?
asmus101 said:
Could you link me for getting that firmware? I got in contact with Verizon and they said...
I am showing the information as follows: users must have software version of NRD90M.G950USQU2BQK5 or NRD90M.G955USQU2BQK5 before they disconnect their service with the prior carriers (AT&T, T-MO, etc). It also goes on to say that Samsung is working on a workaround so that devices do not have an activation issue but there is no specific date or information that has been resolved.
Would the firmware update fix that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check the carrier switching thread for answers. If you don't find answers by searchingfirst, then I would suggest posting your question there.
As far as links for the firmware, check sammobile.com or updato.com.
The current active Verizon sim you have. Place it in the Verizon S7 and give the S7 imei to Verizon to get service. Them once your S7 is fully operable remove sim and put it inside the unlocked note 8.
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
I have a unlocked AT&T working on Verizon. What I did was a carrier switching and the phone is 100% Verizon , then I call Verizon and they add the imei to Verizon and the phone is fully working..
android-incredible said:
I have a unlocked AT&T working on Verizon. What I did was a carrier switching and the phone is 100% Verizon , then I call Verizon and they add the imei to Verizon and the phone is fully working..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Carrier switching firmware, such as in this post?
https://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-note-8/how-to/guide-sm-n950u-u1-t3685884
asmus101 said:
Carrier switching firmware, such as in this post?
https://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-note-8/how-to/guide-sm-n950u-u1-t3685884
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes.
asmus101 said:
I went through AT&T and got the unlock code, put in the Verizon sim and entered the code. After that I went to switch over the phone on Verizon, but they said that my device was not compatible with the Verizon network.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is partly true...At&t is GSM based network and Verizon is CDMA. Not shure on which frequency at&t phones can woark on Verizon network, is it only 4G or?!
Sent from my SM-N950F using Tapatalk
asmus101 said:
Carrier switching firmware, such as in this post?
https://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-note-8/how-to/guide-sm-n950u-u1-t3685884
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How long did it take them to add the IMEI? They told me 72 hours and today would be 72. I guess they are taking their sweet time....

Verizon Note 9 on AT&T

If I get a Verizon note 9 can I just pop an Att sim into it and it will work. I know there may be differences between voice and data but Basically is the Verizon NOTE9 GSM unlocked like past Galaxy phones were?
I read a Verizon forum where the Verizon rep said that the note 9 is GSM unlocked but she said AFTER it has been activated on Verizon.
To make matters more confusing she linked to a Verizon page that basically said all Verizon's post pay phones are GSM 4G unlocked (nothing about activation first).
Anyone can help me here? Thinking of getting a cheap one of eBay to use mainly overseas and ATT or wherever else.
Yes. The Verizon models are unlocked. And it's the same exact hardware as the ATT version. My recommendation is to flash either the U1 or the ATT firmware though. Otherwise you'll get the Verizon boot animation and Verizon bloatware.
The ATT firmware will allow you to use WiFi calling and VOLTE.
The unlocked U1 firmware will be clean and have no carrier bloat.
Mr. Orange 645 said:
Yes. The Verizon models are unlocked. And it's the same exact hardware as the ATT version. My recommendation is to flash either the U1 or the ATT firmware though. Otherwise you'll get the Verizon boot animation and Verizon bloatware.
The ATT firmware will allow you to use WiFi calling and VOLTE.
The unlocked U1 firmware will be clean and have no carrier bloat.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your answer. I will have to read up more on the Flashing and U1 firmware!
I see now that on ebay that some say verizon unlocked and some say verizon locked and some of the verizons up for sale dont specify (but in the item detail it says locked or contract)... This makes things more confusing.
I have always bought verizon phones for the unlocked gsm. I did read that verizon was going to stop having them unlocked....this is my main fear.
So what you're saying, is that the verizon note 9 is 100% gsm unlocked? sorry to ask again.
Henhen59 said:
Thanks for your answer. I will have to read up more on the Flashing and U1 firmware!
I see now that on ebay that some say verizon unlocked and some say verizon locked and some of the verizons up for sale dont specify (but in the item detail it says locked or contract)... This makes things more confusing.
I have always bought verizon phones for the unlocked gsm. I did read that verizon was going to stop having them unlocked....this is my main fear.
So what you're saying, is that the verizon note 9 is 100% gsm unlocked? sorry to ask again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm also looking for that definitive answer as I want to get the Verizon Note 9 for overseas use. I read that it will be unlocked after activation as they were having armed robberies at stores and other inventory locations. I was going to buy the Sprint model but it cost almost $150 to unlock.
Henhen59 said:
Thanks for your answer. I will have to read up more on the Flashing and U1 firmware!
I see now that on ebay that some say verizon unlocked and some say verizon locked and some of the verizons up for sale dont specify (but in the item detail it says locked or contract)... This makes things more confusing.
I have always bought verizon phones for the unlocked gsm. I did read that verizon was going to stop having them unlocked....this is my main fear.
So what you're saying, is that the verizon note 9 is 100% gsm unlocked? sorry to ask again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
djohne said:
I'm also looking for that definitive answer as I want to get the Verizon Note 9 for overseas use. I read that it will be unlocked after activation as they were having armed robberies at stores and other inventory locations. I was going to buy the Sprint model but it cost almost $150 to unlock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Verizon started that with the Pixel 3, after the Note 9. The Note 9's from Verizon are unlocked. Even with the Pixel 3, once it was activated with a Verizon SIM, it was then automatically carrier unlocked. So if you buy a used VZW Note 9 from eBay, its already been activated on Verizon, so no worries.
Just be careful buying off eBay. If its still under contract and the seller stops making payments, it will be blacklisted.
Why buy a Verizon version to use on AT&T?
What is the advantage over getting an AT&T or carrier unlocked version?
pizza_pablo said:
Why buy a Verizon version to use on AT&T?
What is the advantage over getting an AT&T or carrier unlocked version?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They buy on Verizon because Verizon offers better deals. Then they want to use the devices on other networks. But since Note only has A firmware, not B, it's an annoying process for those who haven't flashed before.
AS to your second question: ATT doesn't allow Wi-Fi Calling nor voice over LTE on unlocked devices. So many ending putting up with their bloat in order to get those features.
CrazyApe18 said:
They buy on Verizon because Verizon offers better deals. Then they want to use the devices on other networks. But since Note only has A firmware, not B, it's an annoying process for those who haven't flashed before.
AS to your second question: ATT doesn't allow Wi-Fi Calling nor voice over LTE on unlocked devices. So many ending putting up with their bloat in order to get those features.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Huh, I would think any Verizon deal would require using Verizon service.
Thanks!
pizza_pablo said:
Huh, I would think any Verizon deal would require using Verizon service.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh, they do require service. But people either don't read or think they've found some way around it.
CrazyApe18 said:
Oh, they do require service. But people either don't read or think they've found some way around it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
oh ha! Hard to outsmart big red.
pizza_pablo said:
oh ha! Hard to outsmart big red.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It used to be easier. Verizon would often offer buy one get one free on Samsung and LG devices. You had to sign up for new service and put the phones on a payment plan. But the second phone uses to actually be free, not just bill credits. And you could pay off the first one and cancel your service.
I one time bought four Galaxy S7s when they were brand new, started four lines of service with Verizon, then paid off the phones and cancelled the service. Then I sold all four phones and netted about a thousand dollar profit off the deal.
Did the same thing with the LG G4 with Verizon when they offered $600 prepaid gift cards for each phone you bought.
Now Verizon, like all other carriers, lock you in with bill credits.
As they say, all good things must come to an end.
Mr. Orange 645 said:
Verizon started that with the Pixel 3, after the Note 9. The Note 9's from Verizon are unlocked. Even with the Pixel 3, once it was activated with a Verizon SIM, it was then automatically carrier unlocked. So if you buy a used VZW Note 9 from eBay, its already been activated on Verizon, so no worries.
Just be careful buying off eBay. If its still under contract and the seller stops making payments, it will be blacklisted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wanted them for overseas use, actually ended up getting a great deal on 2 ATT note 9s, under $500 each n paid $18 to unlock
Verizon note 9 on AT&T
I'm using an unlocked Verizon note 9 512gb 8gb ram on AT&T and amazingly everything works. Wifi calling, video calling, volte. Even went to UbreakIfix and they installed Android 10 onto the phone. When I put the Sim card into the phone it loaded all the AT&T software on the phone and I was good. The great thing about Verizon unlocked phones are that they have the full CDMA and GSM capabilities so you can use them on any carrier. It wasn't a hassle at all to do.

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