Database Develop

Unlock issue with UK i9305 - won't work with Three (3) network sim!

I'll try and keep this breif but getting pretty frustrated with this...
I bought this handset sim free from T-Mobile UK. It was brand new and sealed. When inserting my Three(3) sim it would say "invalid sim" - which was expected as it was locked to T-Mobile. I paid a third party UK company called mobileunlocked.co.uk who have a very good reputation and lots of good reviews for an unlock code so I could use it with a Three (3) UK 3G Sim card. I received the unlock code and an un-freeze code and used both several times, resulting in "unsuccessful". Thinking it was a bad code, I paid ANOTHER unlocking company off ebay (again, reputable) and was supplied with the same codes and the same results but a slightly different method which involved entering * and # keys before the codes in the code box. This resulted in a popup saying "Network control code is blocked".
Following this, I tried the *#197328640# method to access the hidden menus as detailed in this thread http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2014982 (this has been proven to work with Note II, Galaxy SIII and Galaxy SIII LTE).
I followed that guide to the letter and restarted the phone. At first, I had hope as there was no sim lock code entry box, however I waited and waited and waited and the phone did not pick up my Three (3) signal, despite it no longer saying "invalid sim".
Basically, it just shows several bars but does not pick a Three(3) signal or any date. I have tried manually selecting the network and manually entering APN settings, but I get the same result. When I try connecting manually it just says "Cannot register on network".
-I have tried using this sim card in other phones, it works OK!
-I have tried using other network sim cards (Orange, T-Mobile, EE, Vodafone) and they all work.
-I have tried using a different Three(3) sim in this phone and it still doesn't work.
I can't return it to the T-Mobile store as the warranty is invalid as I have unlocked it (or so I think!). Can anyone help? I know three(3) sims are compatible with this phone as others on this forum have stated they are using Three (3) sims in unlocked i9305s.
Any idea why my unlocking codes that were valid wouldn't work and why it said "Network control code is blocked"?
Any idea why my Three(3) micro sims won't work but other networks do despite this phone being compatible with three (3) sims?
Help!

It doesn't appear that 3 UK has any publicly available LTE network at this time, but that they are rolling one out. Perhaps it is physically available and being picked up by your phone, except 3 isn't allowing just any sim card to register on that network at this time? Try disabling LTE and attempting to connect again.

Rekoil said:
It doesn't appear that 3 UK has any publicly available LTE network at this time, but that they are rolling one out. Perhaps it is physically available and being picked up by your phone, except 3 isn't allowing just any sim card to register on that network at this time? Try disabling LTE and attempting to connect again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know I won't be able to get LTE as Three (3) aren't offering LTE until Q3. I am perfectly happy just using 3G. I have tried disabling LTE and using 3G only and the same things happen.
I have tried 2 different Three (3) micro sims in it and it still won't register on the network. I know Three(3) sims work in the i9305 as others have unlocked their's and used Three (3) sims.
It's either something wrong with the unlock, something wrong with the hardware or something isn't enabled/disabled. Like I said I've tried automatically connecting and manually entering APNs and still NOTHING.
Frustrating having spent over £450 on a brand new handset which I can't return as warranty is invalidated through "unlocking" (which hasn't unlocked it fully!)

bounce08 said:
I know I won't be able to get LTE as Three (3) aren't offering LTE until Q3. I am perfectly happy just using 3G. I have tried disabling LTE and using 3G only and the same things happen.
I have tried 2 different Three (3) micro sims in it and it still won't register on the network. I know Three(3) sims work in the i9305 as others have unlocked their's and used Three (3) sims.
It's either something wrong with the unlock, something wrong with the hardware or something isn't enabled/disabled. Like I said I've tried automatically connecting and manually entering APNs and still NOTHING.
Frustrating having spent over £450 on a brand new handset which I can't return as warranty is invalidated through "unlocking" (which hasn't unlocked it fully!)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well you did purchase a phone which wasn't intended for use on your network, just saying

Rekoil said:
Well you did purchase a phone which wasn't intended for use on your network, just saying
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Shouldn't be a problem to be honest. Have you tried calling three to say that you're using the i9305? I love three and their unlimited data plans I plan to do this once samsung/EE unlock my phone.

bounce08 said:
I'll try and keep this breif but getting pretty frustrated with this...
I bought this handset sim free from T-Mobile UK. It was brand new and sealed. When inserting my Three(3) sim it would say "invalid sim" - which was expected as it was locked to T-Mobile. I paid a third party UK company called mobileunlocked.co.uk who have a very good reputation and lots of good reviews for an unlock code so I could use it with a Three (3) UK 3G Sim card. I received the unlock code and an un-freeze code and used both several times, resulting in "unsuccessful". Thinking it was a bad code, I paid ANOTHER unlocking company off ebay (again, reputable) and was supplied with the same codes and the same results but a slightly different method which involved entering * and # keys before the codes in the code box. This resulted in a popup saying "Network control code is blocked".
Following this, I tried the *#197328640# method to access the hidden menus as detailed in this thread http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2014982 (this has been proven to work with Note II, Galaxy SIII and Galaxy SIII LTE).
I followed that guide to the letter and restarted the phone. At first, I had hope as there was no sim lock code entry box, however I waited and waited and waited and the phone did not pick up my Three (3) signal, despite it no longer saying "invalid sim".
Basically, it just shows several bars but does not pick a Three(3) signal or any date. I have tried manually selecting the network and manually entering APN settings, but I get the same result. When I try connecting manually it just says "Cannot register on network".
-I have tried using this sim card in other phones, it works OK!
-I have tried using other network sim cards (Orange, T-Mobile, EE, Vodafone) and they all work.
-I have tried using a different Three(3) sim in this phone and it still doesn't work.
I can't return it to the T-Mobile store as the warranty is invalid as I have unlocked it (or so I think!). Can anyone help? I know three(3) sims are compatible with this phone as others on this forum have stated they are using Three (3) sims in unlocked i9305s.
Any idea why my unlocking codes that were valid wouldn't work and why it said "Network control code is blocked"?
Any idea why my Three(3) micro sims won't work but other networks do despite this phone being compatible with three (3) sims?
Help!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi,
I am in the same boat, I actually got the S3 LTE from EE in December (GOT IT FOR 359).. Initially, it worked with three after unlocking via xda..*#197328640# method ..But it stopped working or it was working intermittently...
So tried rining three..they said..ohhh our network is best and our (three) sims will work only in three mobiles..
Anyway I tried all other methods..re-set..factory etc..
Finally sent the mobile to Samsung...
after 10days, I got it back...Now as soon as I insert three sim..it says invalid sim..So tried *#197328640# method again..unfortunately..i can't do that as (the last option INITIALIZE...) does not show up now..
Anyway managed to get unlock code from ebay...NO USE..it shows the same problem as yours.."network control is blocked"...
Donno what to do??? might ring samsung again tomorrow...
Have you tried speaking to T mobile about getting it unlocked????
If you find any answers..pls let me know
Thanks in advance

I'm having the same problem. Any updated on how things went with T-mobile or does anyone have a fix?

Should I cancel my order?!
I just bought the S3 LTE i9305. I purchased it as an upgrade and its arriving tomorrow. I wanted to give my sim to my mother and keep the phone to use with Three's DC-HSPA+ which will work on the S3 LTE. So can I unlock it or will it be facing the same problems as mentioned in the thread. Sorry for not helping out, ama noob and GOOD LUCK! :good:

I recently put in an unlocking request at EE. They get a samsung unlocking code directly from Samsung. So I'll give this method a go. I am getting my Sim Card in soon from three. Decided to jump the boat on to the one plan @ £25 a month. =) EE's london signal is pants. =(
Sent from my GT-I9305 using Tapatalk 2

bleepsake said:
I recently put in an unlocking request at EE. They get a samsung unlocking code directly from Samsung. So I'll give this method a go. I am getting my Sim Card in soon from three. Decided to jump the boat on to the one plan @ £25 a month. =) EE's london signal is pants. =(
Sent from my GT-I9305 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried to get an unlock code from T-mobile, they said that Samsung wouldn't release it for another six months, since it's a new phone. Even though we've been with them for donkeys years!

Right today, I recieved my sim. I'm glad to say everything works. I'm getting around 8mbps down and 1mbps up in West London.
If yours doesnt work then it probably is a damaged sim.
Tell T-Mobile you want to speak to someone that knows what they are talking about. It takes up to 60 days for direct Samsung unlock code. You might have to pay a tenner but worth it jn my perspective. I'm glad I have unlimited data again. It feels like freedom. No Joke. o2 Used to do an unlimited tariff and I loved it. There reasoning was to improve their network but instead it made it worse. I know Three arent known for their calls but they certainly know what customers want and thats data.
PS how do I know if im getting the optimum speed?
Sent from my GT-I9305 using Tapatalk 2

Try this
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1335548

I think you have updated the software via OTA.. you need to downgrade to I9305XXALI5_I9305EVRALI5_I9305BVALI5 (this is for people who have got phone from T-mobile). Download from Sammobile.com, flash via odin (this wont affect ur warranty as this is stock firmware and doesnt increase the binary counter).
once you are sure that you have the above software, then follow the instructions on the below in first post in the mentioned link, again no rooting involved:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2014982
People have confirmed that after unlocking via this method if you go ahead with OTA, you will still have the phone unlocked.
I have followed the above procedure but havent updated the firware and have not used the phone yet. But its unlocked and I have tried using Three UK sim, it works,
Do let me know how it goes.

kams19 said:
I think you have updated the software via OTA.. you need to downgrade to I9305XXALI5_I9305EVRALI5_I9305BVALI5 (this is for people who have got phone from T-mobile). Download from Sammobile.com, flash via odin (this wont affect ur warranty as this is stock firmware and doesnt increase the binary counter).
once you are sure that you have the above software, then follow the instructions on the below in first post in the mentioned link, again no rooting involved:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2014982
People have confirmed that after unlocking via this method if you go ahead with OTA, you will still have the phone unlocked.
I have followed the above procedure but havent updated the firware and have not used the phone yet. But its unlocked and I have tried using Three UK sim, it works,
Do let me know how it goes.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On the site, it says it's for EE, is that still ok? I know T-mobile, Orange and EE, are all pretty much the same thing now, but I just want to be sure. I wouldn't want to put something that starts putting EE logos all over on boot up etc. The one that came with the phone doesn't mention anything about T-mobile on boot up.

It won't EE is unbranded

Thanks... I've zapped it with 4.1.1, used that trick, and then allowed the 4.1.2 update + plus another update of some sort through OTA, and I'm now using O2 happily! Cheers!

Phone arrived Friday on Orange EE with 4.1.2. wouldn't accept 3uk sim.
Tried the *#...640# trick but menu options not present.
Reverted firmware down to 4.1.1. Li5 Uk EE and voila menus present.
Tried 3uk sim and works fine.
Flashed latest Wanamlite rom and still unlocked on 3uk.
Getting a reliable 15.5 Mbs down on dc HSDPA at home despite only having 1 bar signal, on three One plan unlimited for £15/mth.

NGbod said:
Phone arrived Friday on Orange EE with 4.1.2. wouldn't accept 3uk sim.
Tried the *#...640# trick but menu options not present.
Reverted firmware down to 4.1.1. Li5 Uk EE and voila menus present.
Tried 3uk sim and works fine.
Flashed latest Wanamlite rom and still unlocked on 3uk.
Getting a reliable 15.5 Mbs down on dc HSDPA at home despite only having 1 bar signal, on three One plan unlimited for £15/mth.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great news!

PSA - Sprint Models - Factory reset can cause phone to relock / invalid sim card.

PSA for Sprint Moto z3 Play. After the last software update to Build OCW28.70-47, a factory reset caused my phone to no longer read my sim card and appears to somehow have relocked the phone to Sprint. Prior to this software update and reset, the phone read my T-Mobile sim card fine and connected to the network. Calling Sprint verified that my device was already sim unlocked. Calling T-Mobile and they can't do anything on their end. Lastly calling directly to Motorola, and they confirmed that they have already received other calls and that they are working on a software update to fix this glitch. For now, this leaves me with a phone I can't use until this software update fixes it. So just sharing here so others in this situation won't be in the same boat.

LBN1 said:
PSA for Sprint Moto z3 Play. After the last software update to Build OCW28.70-47, a factory reset caused my phone to no longer read my sim card and appears to somehow have relocked the phone to Sprint. Prior to this software update and reset, the phone read my T-Mobile sim card fine and connected to the network. Calling Sprint verified that my device was already sim unlocked. Calling T-Mobile and they can't do anything on their end. Lastly calling directly to Motorola, and they confirmed that they have already received other calls and that they are working on a software update to fix this glitch. For now, this leaves me with a phone I can't use until this software update fixes it. So just sharing here so others in this situation won't be in the same boat.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Quick question, did you unlock it through Sprint? How's the service and reception on it?
I'm on T-mobile and thinking of buying a Sprint variant to unlock and use with T-mo.
Thank you

I got this phone from a reseller already unlocked thru Sprint. For the short time it worked on T-Mo before it got relocked, service and reception was fine. But my advice is Don't Do It! Buy yourself the fully unlocked version, don't bother with a Sprint model to unlock as it is not worth the hassle; plus the fully unlocked version has 64gb versus 32gb on the Sprint version. Unless you are on Sprint, don't get the Sprint model!!! My story is similar to hundreds of other people with other phones having much difficulty in getting a Sprint model unlocked to work on other carriers (e.g. Essential phone has lots of similar problems).
UPDATE: Was able to go to a Sprint store, get a sample Sprint sim, insert and request the UICC unlock code and it got pushed through again so now my X3 is again unlocked for any carrier and now works with my T-Mo sim. So you need a Sprint sim to get that unlock code pushed thru, won't work just on wi-fi without that Sprint sim!

have an update for us to hear? this xt1929-3 still unlocked...
we bought this model (sprint) as a cheap gamble off ebay and it was the best thing. put in my redpocket gsm-t sim this morning and it says in the system update setting under uicc unlock "the device is unlocked for any sim card". that was even after unlocking the bootloader last night. thought we were going to need to do some modding to get away from sprint but didnt have to! so thrilled we will have this nice phone for the wife to enjoy.

Used to have 'free hotspot.' Is that because my bootloader was unlocked?

Hi guys. My goal is to be able to use my AT&T phone/service as a 'hotspot' again, which I have been able to do with my Note 8, but can't get it to work on my Note 9 now. I'm familiar with the technical stuff (thanks to you guys over the years), but need to have an idea of what will solve my problem. Facts first, then what I think might be the issue...
I've been using a Note 8, which I bought overseas, here in the States with my AT&T account which does NOT have the hotspot feature included. It just works though. I put in my SIM and it all boots up fine (with no ATT branding during boot) and my Note 8 has a hotspot feature, which I turn on and it works just like it's supposed to. No issues at all.
Now, I have an unlocked T-Mobile Note 9 that I want to use instead of the Note 8 I bought overseas. When I put ANY US carrier SIM in it, it forces a reboot, and when it boots up it shows whichever carrier's SIM I put in it. If I put a Verizon SIM in it, it reboots and starts showing the Verizon logo during boot, and the same with ATT, etc.
I don't mind that, HOWEVER, now when I try to use the hotspot feature, I get a warning saying something like 'your plan doesn't have the hotspot feature. Please go to to our website to choose a plan that does' and the hotspot feature is blocked completely.
Is it blocked on this unlocked T-Mobile Note 9 because it installs any SIM's bootloader each time or something? I am assuming that allows/forces the carriers to install all their own stuff each time I put a new SIM card in it, which would allow them to also block the hotspot feature on my ATT account, since it's not included in my plan.
If this is the case, is there a way to 'fix' this? I know it's unlocked because it works with other carriers, but I'm thinking maybe the bootloader is locked or something, and if I'm able to unlock it I could put a new OEM flash on it, and maybe it would work just like my unlocked Note 8 that I bought overseas which allows the hotspot feature.
Please advise, if you have any ideas for me. (Unlocked T-Mobile Note 9 SM-N960U)

I would hazzard a guess AT&T is blocking you. I have mobile hotspot in my plan and it works fine on my note9.

You need to flash the u1 firmware for hotspot to work.

Thanks for the help. I'll update this later if it still doesn't work after flashing.

sethsmaxx said:
You need to flash the u1 firmware for hotspot to work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
^^^^ this, all day, er'ry day ^^^^
DanDroidian said:
Thanks for the help. I'll update this later if it still doesn't work after flashing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
youll need the patched version of Odin to flash cross carrier firmware. Not a biggie, just know that regular Odin will fail. Not might, will.

Question Verizon S21 Ultra Locked and not unlocking

I appear to be in one of those samsung lock horror stories. I purchased a paid off verizon s21 ultra that was suppose to be unlocked but after i put my tmobile sim into it works for 5 minutes perfectly then an error pops up saying unable to change carrier call verizon customer support. So i did long story short i got no where. So i filed an FCC complaint and got in contact with a verizon executive and he got in contact with who i bought the phone from and they provided all the paperwork proving it was paid off and he reprocessed the unlock request and said it will now for sure be unlocked and it didnt unlock so i contacted samsung like he said for me to do if it didnt so i did and they told me to wait 48 hours for it to process. 48 hours later guess what its still not unlocked so i call samsung back and they said verizon still hasnt released it supposedly and there is nothing they can do and i need to go back to verizon. Im stuck in an endless loop of verizon executives telling me to call samsung and samsung telling me to call verizon.
What is there left for me to do now? This is stupid why is it not unlocking... The only thing that i can think is left is that the phone is flashed with stock firmware and not verizon firmware to remove the bloatware. But that seems like it shouldnt matter. Also the phone never asks for an unlock code it just says call verizon customer service.

It's more a Verizon lock horror, not Samsung.
Flashing other FW won't solve your issue.

OnnoJ said:
It's more a Verizon lock horror, not Samsung.
Flashing other FW won't solve your issue.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Any other tips you have?

Return to seller and demand refund...

DodgeTransmissionsGoBoom said:
I appear to be in one of those samsung lock horror stories. I purchased a paid off verizon s21 ultra that was suppose to be unlocked but after i put my tmobile sim into it works for 5 minutes perfectly then an error pops up saying unable to change carrier call verizon customer support. So i did long story short i got no where. So i filed an FCC complaint and got in contact with a verizon executive and he got in contact with who i bought the phone from and they provided all the paperwork proving it was paid off and he reprocessed the unlock request and said it will now for sure be unlocked and it didnt unlock so i contacted samsung like he said for me to do if it didnt so i did and they told me to wait 48 hours for it to process. 48 hours later guess what its still not unlocked so i call samsung back and they said verizon still hasnt released it supposedly and there is nothing they can do and i need to go back to verizon. Im stuck in an endless loop of verizon executives telling me to call samsung and samsung telling me to call verizon.
What is there left for me to do now? This is stupid why is it not unlocking... The only thing that i can think is left is that the phone is flashed with stock firmware and not verizon firmware to remove the bloatware. But that seems like it shouldnt matter. Also the phone never asks for an unlock code it just says call verizon customer service.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First, did you verify that the unit is paid off?
Second, do you know anyone that has verizon?
Don't know if it will work, but I would try flashing the unit back to stock Verizon firmware and finding someone who has a verizon sim card.
Verizon units kind of unlock on their own. It is troubleshooting I would try because I do not believe the unit will unlock on U1 software on its own. Once it can get unlocked then flash back.
I suggest someone who has a verizon active SIM as it may help in it unlocking even though you can connect through WIFI

yygemmi770 said:
First, did you verify that the unit is paid off?
Second, do you know anyone that has verizon?
Don't know if it will work, but I would try flashing the unit back to stock Verizon firmware and finding someone who has a verizon sim card.
Verizon units kind of unlock on their own. It is troubleshooting I would try because I do not believe the unit will unlock on U1 software on its own. Once it can get unlocked then flash back.
I suggest someone who has a verizon active SIM as it may help in it unlocking even though you can connect through WIFI
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The verizon executative said it was guaranteed paid off and he unlocked it remotely again. But it does have u1 firmware on it im guessing i need to use frija and download the vzw firmware? And will another unlock request need to be processed again? And none of my friends have verizon due to how much of a ripoff they are lmao but i can have another verizon demo sim put in at another verizon store. I feel like i would have to file anpther fcc complaint just to talk to another verizon executive.

DodgeTransmissionsGoBoom said:
The verizon executative said it was guaranteed paid off and he unlocked it remotely again. But it does have u1 firmware on it im guessing i need to use frija and download the vzw firmware? And will another unlock request need to be processed again? And none of my friends have verizon due to how much of a ripoff they are lmao but i can have another verizon demo sim put in at another verizon store. I feel like i would have to file anpther fcc complaint just to talk to another verizon executive.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe for it to be unlocked or at least go through the process, the verizon U package is what I would flash, but you may be in a little bit of a issue if you don't have a verizon SIM on hand, even if not activated.
There are multiple ways to get it to flash back to U. I would use a patched ODIN and just flash the appropriate files from somewhere like samfw.com
If he sent out the remote unlock, it is very possible that once you flash back to U verizon package and connect to WIFI and go through the setup process etc. It may just unlock on its own. If you do not have a Verizon SIM card, leave your SIM out of the phone while going through the initial setup. You will need WIFI.
I would start with a clean flash just to be safe.

yygemmi770 said:
I believe for it to be unlocked or at least go through the process, the verizon U package is what I would flash, but you may be in a little bit of a issue if you don't have a verizon SIM on hand, even if not activated.
There are multiple ways to get it to flash back to U. I would use a patched ODIN and just flash the appropriate files from somewhere like samfw.com
If he sent out the remote unlock, it is very possible that once you flash back to U verizon package and connect to WIFI and go through the setup process etc. It may just unlock on its own. If you do not have a Verizon SIM card, leave your SIM out of the phone while going through the initial setup. You will need WIFI.
I would start with a clean flash just to be safe.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What's a patched Odin? I've only used regular Odin can you send a link to the patched one?

VERIZON FIRMWARE FLASHING UNLOCKED IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

DodgeTransmissionsGoBoom said:
VERIZON FIRMWARE FLASHING UNLOCKED IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
BAM!!!!! Glad it worked! I work with phones all day long and that was the protocol I would have used glad it worked out!

DodgeTransmissionsGoBoom said:
VERIZON FIRMWARE FLASHING UNLOCKED IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello, I have encountered the same problem. Can you tell me the solution to this problem?

chen2luqi said:
Hello, I have encountered the same problem. Can you tell me the solution to this problem?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You literally quoted the answer

Verizon firmware has an app called "Network Unlock". Perhaps at the 60 day mark, the phone automatically unlocks. However, if on the unlocked U1 firmware, there is no framework to remove the lock. It'd be interesting to see exactly how the Verizon unlock process works.

Guyinlaca said:
Verizon firmware has an app called "Network Unlock". Perhaps at the 60 day mark, the phone automatically unlocks. However, if on the unlocked U1 firmware, there is no framework to remove the lock. It'd be interesting to see exactly how the Verizon unlock process works.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is somehow tied into their U package software and I am assuming unlocks it at the modem level in background processes. It's like the "signal" they send out can only be detected on their U package. I've seen it many times where Verizon phones automatically unlock themselves when restored to original package from U1.

yygemmi770 said:
It is somehow tied into their U package software and I am assuming unlocks it at the modem level in background processes. It's like the "signal" they send out can only be detected on their U package. I've seen it many times where Verizon phones automatically unlock themselves when restored to original package from U1.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can confirm this works on my s21+ that was on verizon network, and was supposedly networked unlocked. Service carrier software said vzw/vzw, vzw/vzw. Tried to switch to tmobile with no luck with sim card swap. 5 minutes, error message about cannot which carriers, please call Verizon. Was on SM-996U1. So I tried to flash to SM-996U1 TMB, then SM-996U1 VZW, then, SM-996U1 XAA. No luck. Then I flashed, hesitantly, with SM-996U VZW . I thought that would put all verizons bloatware on it. Reseted phone and it did put all verizon bloatware on it. Then the magic! I installed my new tmobile sim, and a message appeared and asked if I wished to switch carriers. YES!!! phone rebooted to tmobiles network with no verizon errors. I checked service carrier software and it was TMB/TMB, VZW/VZW. I flashed phone again to SM-996U1 XAA. I rebooted and service carrier software was TMB/TMB, TMB/VZW! I then checked for software update, took update, and all it good! Thanks for all the information here. Took me days to find it and understand it and try it!!

Hi, folks. I am facing the same issue with my S21 5G (SM-G991U). I am also told that the phone paid off and clean. I am not sure what version I am on currently. I have tried SamKey, but that didn't work. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you in advance.

hoorrus said:
Hi, folks. I am facing the same issue with my S21 5G (SM-G991U). I am also told that the phone paid off and clean. I am not sure what version I am on currently. I have tried SamKey, but that didn't work. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does your device boot up Verizon and have all the Verizon apps?

bigkahuna7660 said:
I can confirm this works on my s21+ that was on verizon network, and was supposedly networked unlocked. Service carrier software said vzw/vzw, vzw/vzw. Tried to switch to tmobile with no luck with sim card swap. 5 minutes, error message about cannot which carriers, please call Verizon. Was on SM-996U1. So I tried to flash to SM-996U1 TMB, then SM-996U1 VZW, then, SM-996U1 XAA. No luck. Then I flashed, hesitantly, with SM-996U VZW . I thought that would put all verizons bloatware on it. Reseted phone and it did put all verizon bloatware on it. Then the magic! I installed my new tmobile sim, and a message appeared and asked if I wished to switch carriers. YES!!! phone rebooted to tmobiles network with no verizon errors. I checked service carrier software and it was TMB/TMB, VZW/VZW. I flashed phone again to SM-996U1 XAA. I rebooted and service carrier software was TMB/TMB, TMB/VZW! I then checked for software update, took update, and all it good! Thanks for all the information here. Took me days to find it and understand it and try it!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From my experience, Verizon phones will not unlock unless on the U package, the U1 never allows the unlock to be processed.

yygemmi770 said:
Does your device boot up Verizon and have all the Verizon apps?
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It does not boot up with Verizon but it does have a few Verizon apps included (it has Call Filter and Digital Secure) installed. The current version of the software is G991USQS6EWD5. Service provider version is SQOMC_SM-G991U_OYN_SPR_13_0020 SPR/SPR,SPR/VZW.

hoorrus said:
It does not boot up with Verizon but it does have a few Verizon apps included (it has Call Filter and Digital Secure) installed. The current version of the software is G991USQS6EWD5. Service provider version is SQOMC_SM-G991U_OYN_SPR_13_0020 SPR/SPR,SPR/VZW.
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Are you using this phone with Verizon service? From info you provided, your phone thinks you are using Sprint. It's a SPR CSC. You need to change the CSC to VZW. You need to bring the phone back to it's original state for any attempt of the unlock "processing".

SM-G973U VoLTE

I recently bought an unlocked Galaxy S10 SM-G973U on Amazon. Got new SIM card from a Verizon MVNO and activated phone. The phone downloaded Android 12, One UI version 4.0. Firmware Build number SP1A210812.016.G973USQS6HVA1. Service provide Software version SAOMC_SM-G973U_OYN_SPR_12_0007 SPR/XAA/VZW. The problem is there is no menu option to activate/switch on VoLTE which means when I'm on a call there is no internet. I've talked to the MVNO tech support multiple times and was told they couldn't see any problems on their side, or that the SM-G973U does not support VoLTE which is not true. I found on one of AT&T's sites that the SM-G973U needs a software patch to enable VoLTE. I also found a couple of USSD codes but they either didn't work or didn't get me to the right setup screen to turn on VoLTE. I even stopped by a Samsung store and they weren't any help either. They said they could re-flash a stock firmware but it would revert to being locked to a carrier which is apparently also not true based on what I've read on this forum. Anyone know how I can turn on VoLTE or know of an apk file or software patch to enable VoLTE?? Does one of the firmware versions posted online have the patch to turn on VoLTE??

I think the issue is that your phone is showing SPR/XAA/VZW. You say you're on a verizon MVNO (who, by the way?)... but your phone isn't seeing that. It's actually saying it's active for SPRint. The second one, XAA, means it's not able to detect the SIM type... and the third was that it was originally VZW, which you can't change and isn't really relevant. (That's just what the phone was "born" as).
Bottom line, your phone isn't seeing VZW or an MVNO as the active CSC nor the SIM card. In the past, the easy thing was to change the CSC to what you need, but I haven't found a way to do that actively. What's supposed to happen is that the CSC should update based on the SIM card and cell signal you're getting... but this doesn't always happen. I bought two phones - one switched with no issues, the other I could not get it to change no matter what I tried.
That said, the easiest thing is to clean flash the phone with ODIN to a VZW or your MVNO's ROM, so that (hopefully) the CSC updates automatically. You could also consider flashing a U1 (unlocked) ROM, as yours is not technically an unlocked ROM (U means it's a carrier ROM... which may be why it's not switching over?)
Again, I tried all of these on the second phone I bought, and nothing would switch it (my carrier is Total Wireless, which is a VZ MVNO, and actually shows up as Tracfone (TFN). I had to return that second phone and get another with TFN already activated, and that worked fine... so be sure you do this before you drop out of your return period.
Bottom line, you should be able to get this all working... my VOLTE/VOWIFI works fine... just a matter of getting you there.

Thanks. My carrier is Straight Talk which is now VZ. The SIM card they sent me has the wording "Verizon Compatible" written on it. I finally found a document that explains how to interpret the CSC codes and your explanation clarifies my understanding of it. Sound like I'll have to re-flash it. Since it was originally a VZW phone I'm thinking I should flash it back to VZW to see if that works before trying U1.

Dumb question as this is my first time flashing a phone. (I've flashed quite a few other things but never had to worry about CSC codes and bootloader versions, etc.) I don't see VZW firmware on samfirms or sammobile. I see Sprint, T-Mobile, and one listed as USA without carrier info but I don't see one for VZW. Can someone point me to the correct location to download SM-g973U and U1 firmware for VZW? Greatly appreciated and thanks for putting up with my lack of knowledge!
Edited: Found the files on sammobile. Will try the U1 (VZW) first. I'll keep my fingers crossed.

schwinn8 said:
I think the issue is that your phone is showing SPR/XAA/VZW. You say you're on a verizon MVNO (who, by the way?)... but your phone isn't seeing that. It's actually saying it's active for SPRint. The second one, XAA, means it's not able to detect the SIM type... and the third was that it was originally VZW, which you can't change and isn't really relevant. (That's just what the phone was "born" as).
Bottom line, your phone isn't seeing VZW or an MVNO as the active CSC nor the SIM card. In the past, the easy thing was to change the CSC to what you need, but I haven't found a way to do that actively. What's supposed to happen is that the CSC should update based on the SIM card and cell signal you're getting... but this doesn't always happen. I bought two phones - one switched with no issues, the other I could not get it to change no matter what I tried.
That said, the easiest thing is to clean flash the phone with ODIN to a VZW or your MVNO's ROM, so that (hopefully) the CSC updates automatically. You could also consider flashing a U1 (unlocked) ROM, as yours is not technically an unlocked ROM (U means it's a carrier ROM... which may be why it's not switching over?)
Again, I tried all of these on the second phone I bought, and nothing would switch it (my carrier is Total Wireless, which is a VZ MVNO, and actually shows up as Tracfone (TFN). I had to return that second phone and get another with TFN already activated, and that worked fine... so be sure you do this before you drop out of your return period.
Bottom line, you should be able to get this all working... my VOLTE/VOWIFI works fine... just a matter of getting you there.
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Success! Was able to flash U1. VoLTE is now working. The CSC now shows TFN/TFN/VZW. Much appreciated!!!

Awesome, glad to hear that fixed it easily!
And TFN... I'm a fan there, too!

Hi! I'm having a similar issue with the same model and happy to see someone was able to enable VoLTE. However, most of what you said above is a foreign language to me. Would one of you be willing to give me a crash course in what you did?
Here's my specific situation. Last week (~1/4/23) Tracfone shutdown 3G. My Samsung Galaxy S10 (SM-G973U) says my network is set to LTE/3G/2G. I've read LTE is 4G, but still can't make or receive calls/texts, but data and 911 calls still work. Their tech support is no help.
From reading online it sounds like I may need VoLTE, not just LTE. Hence finding this thread. If one of you would be willing to spare some time to walk me through what you did I'd really appreciate it. In the mean time I'll try to figure out what "flashing" mean in a context that doesn't involve showing body parts
Thank you in advance!!

I'm on Tracfone (they were bought out by Verizon, BTW) - I was on Total Wireless before, which is now Total by Verizon. You might try contacting support again, as they are now VZ, and may have more help to offer.
My S10+ is running 975U1 now, and it works for VOLTE/VOWIFI properly. You may consider getting a U1 ROM installed, and maybe even the VZW (or TFN) version if available - that may get you working.
Did VOLTE ever work for you before on this or any other carrier? What is your CSC right now?

schwinn8 said:
I'm on Tracfone (they were bought out by Verizon, BTW) - I was on Total Wireless before, which is now Total by Verizon. You might try contacting support again, as they are now VZ, and may have more help to offer.
My S10+ is running 975U1 now, and it works for VOLTE/VOWIFI properly. You may consider getting a U1 ROM installed, and maybe even the VZW (or TFN) version if available - that may get you working.
Did VOLTE ever work for you before on this or any other carrier? What is your CSC right now?
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Thanks for replying! I'm not entirely sure if VoLTE has worked previously. I bought this phone 6/2021 and have only haver had tracfone service for it. I did find in my setting that VoLTE calling is set to on so it seems like it should work. Of note, the 4Glte in my status bar has always been grayed out (I went back and looked at some old screenshots).
My current CSC is VZW/XAA/ATT.
I spoke with tracfone customer service yesterday and they had me reset my network setting and now I don't even have data and the 4Glte in my status bar that was previously gray has now completely disappeared.
Their customer service refuses to talk to me now (literally no one answers when it transfers to an agent) or they hang up on me, and no I haven't been rude, but I have told them I'm recording the call.
I bought a mint mobile package last night because I'm beyond frustrated with Tracfone. I'm worried I'll have the same problems with Mint. I'm not sure if my settings are screwed up or if it's just Tracfone. In any case things are worse now after talking to customer service yesterday.
I also notice there was no APN setting on my phone so I updated it today and restarted but no difference.
Thanks for any input!! Much appreciated. Sorry for the novel.

Ok, so based on your CSC, the phone is not seeing the SIM's carrier - it's showing XAA which means it's using the default settings, which is probably why your not getting VOLTE. The active CSC of "VZW" may be ok... depends on which carrier you're on with Tracfone. I think they're VZW only, but I'm not completely sure.
You may want to just get a new SIM card and get that activated. HOWEVER, the problem you'll likely face is that the phone was born ATT (last CSC). This means the IMEI won't match a "compatible" phone to Verizon, and they will flat out refuse to activate it (even though WE al know it will work fine). If you still want to do that, you will have to activate the new SIM on a VZ "compatible" phone, then you can swap it to the S10. Note that VZ complains about this when you talk to them... so don't tell them you're doing this... but I've done it many times and it works fine.
If your actual behind-the-scenes carrier is ATT, then you can do the activation with your phone without issue.
If none of this works for you, you can switch carriers to an ATT MVNO and you should be good to go.

schwinn8 said:
Ok, so based on your CSC, the phone is not seeing the SIM's carrier - it's showing XAA which means it's using the default settings, which is probably why your not getting VOLTE. The active CSC of "VZW" may be ok... depends on which carrier you're on with Tracfone. I think they're VZW only, but I'm not completely sure.
You may want to just get a new SIM card and get that activated. HOWEVER, the problem you'll likely face is that the phone was born ATT (last CSC). This means the IMEI won't match a "compatible" phone to Verizon, and they will flat out refuse to activate it (even though WE al know it will work fine). If you still want to do that, you will have to activate the new SIM on a VZ "compatible" phone, then you can swap it to the S10. Note that VZ complains about this when you talk to them... so don't tell them you're doing this... but I've done it many times and it works fine.
If your actual behind-the-scenes carrier is ATT, then you can do the activation with your phone without issue.
If none of this works for you, you can switch carriers to an ATT MVNO and you should be good to go.
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OK some of that was still over my head. I'll see what happens with the Mint Sim... one f/u question now though. You said the ATT means my phone was "born" ATT. I bought my phone off backmarket and it was sold as "unlocked". Was that not true? How can I be sure in the future if I buy a used phone that's not from my carrier that it will actually be compatible?

Unlocked just means it's not locked to a carrier. That is true in your case, otherwise you wouldn't have been able to install ANY non-ATT SIM. So, you did the right thing to get an unlocked phone, and that is what you got.
The issue with compatibility is just the asshole carriers spreading lies. They do this to try to get people to buy THEIR phones, for no reason other than to make money and confuse consumers. The "born" CSC has no bearing on anything, really... neither does the carrier-specified IMEI. In your case, the XAA is good, which means it's a multi-carrier ROM, which works with all USA carriers.
Mint is a good idea - being an ATT carrier (IIRC), that should work and they should help you get it up and running even if they have to activate it. Good luck!

Awesome! Fingers crossed!! Thank you for your time and all the info❣
I'll try to remember to give an update in a few weeks for future readers

Goldie8709 said:
Awesome! Fingers crossed!! Thank you for your time and all the info❣
I'll try to remember to give an update in a few weeks for future readers
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UPDATE: Switching to Mint worked like a charm! Once my number ported and I put the new SIM card in, service was instantaneous! I've had Mint for 3 weeks now and the service is so much better than with Tracfone! My calls go through nearly as soon as I hit call, the internet is faster.
I didn't need to do a thing either. No making APN settings, etc. I'm betting it has to do with what you said about my phone being born ATT. So funny because the software(?) is Verizon - shows the Verizon when I restart/power up. I still love my bastard phone
So thankful I didn't buy a different phone!!! Again thanks for all your help @schwinn8

Thanks for reporting back and letting us all know, and I'm glad it worked out well!
Yeah, the carriers pull this nonsense all the time... it's BS. The phones are all the same, only the ROM changes. If we can change ROMs (which we can) then there should be no reason to force users to specific IMEIs. But we know why they do this - follow the money. I encourage people to write to the FTC and FCC about this (I have).