UPDATE - I was able to track down the following link for the modem that is supposed to be used in the LTE version. This would give credit to the information that tech support gave me. If this is correct, the modem is completely accessible at the software level. HELL YEAH! Now here is the link.
http://www.nvidia.com/object/i500-cellular-modems-products.html
I originally called Nvidia tech support back on July 17th, 2014 to see if the LTE version would support GSM voice calling seeing as how it is factory unlocked and compatible with both AT&T and T-Mobile. They would not tell me if the phone restriction in the US was locked down by hardware or software at that time and that I would have to call back once the tablet officially hit the market.
I called today and was AMAZED when the tech told me very honestly that the restriction was at the software level. I then asked, if I were to root the device without unlocking the bootloader, and then use a different framework to expose the dialer and phone settings, would I be able to achieve making phone calls over a GSM connection....................... HE SAID YES!!!!!!
Again, being very forthcoming and stating exactly what I wanted to do, he assured me that this can be done by altering JUST the software, it is not locked down at a hardware level like the uh...cough, cough... Nexus 7 LTE. As usual, rooting MAY void the warranty....BUT he said that doing something like this would be looked at on a case by case basis for determining if these actions would indeed void the warranty. Encouraging, as he did not flat out say, if you mess something up...enjoy your new paperweight!
Praise the lord... I know not everyone needs or wants a tablet that can make calls, but if I can kill 2 birds with 1 stone, and have a way to make the 30 minutes of calls that I do per month through BLUETOOTH (don't start the whole holding a tablet to your head is stupid argument) while only carrying an awesome performing tablet, than that is fine for me.
Now to just wait for the LTE model to arrive to market and then see if any BADASS DEVELOPER can share with me how to modify the framework to expose that dialer!
Mods... just realized that I posted this to Q&A instead of General, please move if necessary.
jdmadonna said:
I originally called Nvidia tech support back on July 17th, 2014 to see if the LTE version would support GSM voice calling seeing as how it is factory unlocked and compatible with both AT&T and T-Mobile. They would not tell me if the phone restriction in the US was locked down by hardware or software at that time and that I would have to call back once the tablet officially hit the market.
I called today and was AMAZED when the tech told me very honestly that the restriction was at the software level. I then asked, if I were to root the device without unlocking the bootloader, and then use a different framework to expose the dialer and phone settings, would I be able to achieve making phone calls over a GSM connection....................... HE SAID YES!!!!!!
Again, being very forthcoming and stating exactly what I wanted to do, he assured me that this can be done by altering JUST the software, it is not locked down at a hardware level like the uh...cough, cough... Nexus 7 LTE. As usual, rooting MAY void the warranty....BUT he said that doing something like this would be looked at on a case by case basis for determining if these actions would indeed void the warranty. Encouraging, as he did not flat out say, if you mess something up...enjoy your new paperweight!
Praise the lord... I know not everyone needs or wants a tablet that can make calls, but if I can kill 2 birds with 1 stone, and have a way to make the 30 minutes of calls that I do per month through BLUETOOTH (don't start the whole holding a tablet to your head is stupid argument) while only carrying an awesome performing tablet, than that is fine for me.
Now to just wait for the LTE model to arrive to market and then see if any BADASS DEVELOPER can share with me how to modify the framework to expose that dialer!
Mods... just realized that I posted this to Q&A instead of General, please move if necessary.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is very good news. I really like this tablet, but I will upgrade for the larger storage size and the ability to make a few changes and be able to use it as a phone when needed as well.
Speaking of the lte version, does anyone have confirmation its is T-Mobile and attack ONLY as I was looking at the listed cell bands and it does list the bands that others carriers use as being compatible though I saw no mention of what the actual radio chip set is (so its feasible that it isn't gsm only hardware wise)
Sent from my SHIELD using Tapatalk
See my updated op. You might like what you find.
According to the Nvidia Shield Tablet FAQ, there are 3 versions of the LTE tablet, only one of which supports voice. Unfortunately, the LTE bands that model supports do not appear to be the ones T-Mobile or AT&T use in the U.S.A.
Hopefully the lack of voice support on the other models will be a software restriction that can be fixed by the developer community here.
From http://shield.nvidia.com/tablet-faq
>>
WHAT CELLULAR NETWORKS DOES THE SHIELD TABLET LTE SUPPORT?There are three versions of SHIELD tablet LTE. There is a North American version that works on AT&T, T-Mobile and Rogers on LTE bands 2, 4, 5, 7, and 17 and HSPA bands 1, 2, 4, 5.There is a second International version that works on popular European and Asian networks. It supports LTE bands 3, 7, 20 and HSPA+ bands 1, 2, 5, 8. The third version also works on popular International carriers, in addition to including voice support on compatible networks. It supports LTE bands 1, 3, 7, 20 and HSPA+ bands 1, 2, 5, 8. Check with your favorite carrier to verify coverage in your area.DOES THE SHIELD TABLET LTE SUPPORT VOICE?There is a version of the international SKU that supports voice on compatible networks, available for purchase in select regions.<<
i want to upgrade my phone and i intend to do exactly as you did .but i'd like to know does the shield tablet have an inner top speaker ? meaning if i want to put it on my ear directly to make a phone call . wouldn't everyone surrounding me hear what the other party on the end of the line is saying to me ?
what would you do about that ? i really need an answer about this matter because it's the only thing stopping me from getting this tablet
Thanks for the great news and just what I had been waiting to have clarified. Presently I am using the Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.7 P6800 which has phone capabilities.
My telephone use is very light, texting gets more usage, and I have no interest in carrying two devices. Generally I make phone calls using the speakerphone but if I ever have to take a call in a public place then I hold the tablet to my ear. Just for the record and for those who are paranoid self obsessed, nobody ever notices that my phone is 7.7", let alone point fingers at me
My brother is a heavy mobile phone user and he has a Tab 7.7" also and he will never revert to a small screen phone either.
The UK release date for the LTE version is 2nd September which is close to my birthday so I wonder what Santa will bring
This is an excellent move by Nvidia, they deserve to have outstanding success with the Shield Tablet.
In the meantime I am watching the WiFi and cracked casing threads to see how Nvidia are responding, I wouldn't be surprised if the release date is delayed while those issues are addressed.
Same situation as rebski/ I got a tab 7.7 too...
But unfortunately the shield tablet looks quite heavy, 390 grams with 8"... And doesn't have a notification led/ or an amoled screen ( on my tab 7.7, I use NoLed)
But all the ports are very useful.... Quite a dilemma with the tab Style 8.4 (290 grams)
Pre-order or wait?
So I'm looking to replace my nexus 5 with an nvidia shield... This will be my first time using a tablet as a phone. I'm rather nervous about dropping the extra hundo (100$) on a tablet when there is a chance that I wouldn't be able to use it as a replacement for my phone, sure its the best looking tablet on the US market right now and lets be honest, i'd happily drop 300$ on the none LTE version but I don't want to drop the extra money if this wont work. What do you guys think are the probability of being able to use this as a phone replacement and even if it is not capable of LTE voice in the US market is there a reasonable workaround the can be done to be able to use the tablet as a phone?
What do you guys think are the probability of being able to use this as a phone replacement and even if it is not capable of LTE voice in the US market is there a reasonable workaround the can be done to be able to use the tablet as a phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It seems like it should be possible but much may depend on location and carrier technology. But I supect that we may have to expend some cash and time in order to get it to work even in those areas where the capability seems certain. In short it probably won't make calls straight out of the box but we shall know more once the LTE models are shipped.
http://shield.nvidia.co.uk/tablet-faq/
"DOES THE SHIELD TABLET LTE SUPPORT VOICE?
There is a version of the international SKU that supports voice on compatible networks, available for purchase in select regions."
Sorry if my opinion is so vague but Nvidia themselves are not at all clear on the point.The next couple of weeks should bring some clarification and answers.
I am assuming that many people will buy the 32Gb version regardless but I will only buy it if it makes phone calls.
rebski said:
It seems like it should be possible but much may depend on location and carrier technology. But I supect that we may have to expend some cash and time in order to get it to work even in those areas where the capability seems certain. In short it probably won't make calls straight out of the box but we shall know more once the LTE models are shipped.
"DOES THE SHIELD TABLET LTE SUPPORT VOICE?
There is a version of the international SKU that supports voice on compatible networks, available for purchase in select regions."
Sorry if my opinion is so vague but Nvidia themselves are not at all clear on the point.The next couple of weeks should bring some clarification and answers.
I am assuming that many people will buy the 32Gb version regardless but I will only buy it if it makes phone calls.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got mine LTE the other day and the msg that pops up is "Calls are not supported" when using a dialer.
Live in Sweden btw
Congratulations on getting the device. That is disappointing not to have voice calls straightaway. I have been looking closely at the photos on some recent LTE reviews and they don't have the phone icon. So what is this SKU that is supposed to be available for purchase I wonder? No doubt we will find out shortly. In the meantime enjoy your tablet.
Sent from my GT-P6800 using Tapatalk
rebski said:
Congratulations on getting the device. That is disappointing not to have voice calls straightaway. I have been looking closely at the photos on some recent LTE reviews and they don't have the phone icon. So what is this SKU that is supposed to be available for purchase I wonder? No doubt we will find out shortly. In the meantime enjoy your tablet.
Sent from my GT-P6800 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Got this reply from Support today.
Thank you for the update.
I checked this case further & the current Shield tablet you have purchased with the P/N 940-81761-2505-200 is for “SHIELD tablet LTE Europe (EU / UK Adaptor)” which is data only and no Voice feature supported.
For voice you would need to go for SHIELD tablet Voice (E.U. Adaptor) - which is not yet released. Hope this helps.
Best Regards
NVIDIA Customer Care
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the information. Nvidia is making this harder that it seemingly need be. They should have clarified this from the outset . I think that the sum total of the issues with this device means that I shall look to the Sony Xperia Z3 Compact Tablet as my likely next device.
I hope that you were not completely counting on making phone calls, if so then this is a bummer bombshell for you.
Sent from my GT-P6800 using Tapatalk
rebski said:
In the meantime I am watching the WiFi and cracked casing threads to see how Nvidia are responding, I wouldn't be surprised if the release date is delayed while those issues are addressed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought the Wifi version and had to return it due to the Wifi issue. It's widely known and posted in Geo Force forum (NVidia own forum site) and no response from NVidia.
As much as I like the Shield Tablet, if NVidia won't fix it, I won't buy it.
I completely share your views. When this device was first announced I couldn't wait to buy one, so it is despondent to watch the enthusiasm evaporate. Also disappointing as I had expected much more from Nvidia. Isn't there a 64 bit version on the drawing board? Perhaps with the Shield Mark II they will get it right.
Sent from my GT-P6800 using Tapatalk
rebski said:
Thanks for the information. Nvidia is making this harder that it seemingly need be. They should have clarified this from the outset . I think that the sum total of the issues with this device means that I shall look to the Sony Xperia Z3 Compact Tablet as my likely next device.
I hope that you were not completely counting on making phone calls, if so then this is a bummer bombshell for you.
Sent from my GT-P6800 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The idea was to replace my phone so yeah i was, started the process to return the device until i can grab one knowing i can make phone calls.
Other than this i havnt had any issues with either battery, wifi or cracked edges even the buttons feels different compared to 16gb version.
I simply love the tablet but doesnt help if i can only text people lol
Ill stick to my old broken phone until they get this sorted and get a new tablet then
Email from nvidia
Today I had the following response from nvidia support:
"Thank you for your patience, please note The LTE comes in 2 types DATA only and DATA + Voice. Unfortunately the DATA + Voice is not yet released."
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
...followed by:
"I certainly understand that many of user are looking for the NVIDIA Shield DATA + Voice version. Unfortunately we do not have any update yet, however, we suggest you to keep in touch with NVIDIA/GeForce.com website for latest updates regarding new upcoming."
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AnyOldName said:
Today I had the following response from nvidia support:
...followed by:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well that leaves 2 options then, Return it and wait for the voice version or keep it and wait for their adapter
I recently had a conversation with Nvidia regarding voice support on LTE devices in the United States. Here is what they had to say (names removed to protect privacy)...
Hello ----,
Thank you for contacting NVIDIA Customer Care.
My name is ----- and I will be assisting with your query.
From your e-mail, I understand that you would like to know, if the SHIELD Tablet LTE (USA/International) version supports voice.
I would like to inform you that the North American version of the SHIELD Tablet LTE doesn't support voice calls.
There are 2 International versions of SHIELD tablet LTE :
1. International version that works on popular European and Asian networks. It supports LTE bands 3, 7, 20 and HSPA+ bands 1, 2, 5, 8.
2. This also works on popular International carriers, in addition to including voice support on compatible networks. It supports LTE bands 1, 3, 7, 20 and HSPA+ bands 1, 2, 5, 8.
Hence, there is no International version that supports voice calls on LTE band 4 and/or HSPA band 4.
Please let me know, if this information was helpful. In case, if you have any further questions, please reply to this e-mail, so that I can assist you further.
Looking forward for your update.
Best Regards,
-----
NVIDIA Customer Care
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Related
I am very interested in the galaxy tab but I am wondering if it makes and receives calls on the carrier networks, namely verizon. I am one of the people who will lug the tablet around as my main phone. I see the phone app on the pictures around the net but I have yet to see it stated anywhere.
Sent from my DROIDX using Tapatalk
You will be sad to know the for the North American Tab the Phone/ Voice has bin removed from the list of options thats is being shipped from from Samsung. In the press conference today they stated that.
If they kept the microphone, this is Dev worthy.
ConceptVBS said:
If they kept the microphone, this is Dev worthy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
no joke! i hope someone can get ahold of one of these ASAP and take it apart to see if it has the hardware.
I read somwhere that you just have to have a bluetooth or regular headset.
Sent from my DROID2 using XDA App
I'm hoping this is just a software thing for having the phone feature disabled on the US version of the Tab.
Imagine the looks you would get holding a 7inch tablet to your ear? LOL. Well a wireless headset or a set of earphones is in serious need. Hopefully the devs here can sort something out if the tab has the hardware for it.
it does have 3G voice and data hardware
http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_tab-3370.php
but as you said, yes people will look at you extremely weird face LOL
AllGamer said:
it does have 3G voice and data hardware
http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_tab-3370.php
but as you said, yes people will look at you extremely weird face LOL
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well that is awesome then, I will go back to the idea of me wanting one again... Ill use my g1 until a modded rom comes out if one isnt out by the time it releases stateside...
I dont plan on holding it to my head during a call even though I might just to be funny..lol.. i barely use my phone (for voice calls) which is why im so concerned with merging it into my tablet because it would be just an app for me... which is the way I like it.
Every review I've read of the US-based versions of the Galaxy Tab (for AT&T/Verizon/Sprint) has said that the Tab will NOT work as a phone.
(sorry, newbie post so I can't post full URL...endgaget has the story)
Skype and other VOIP services work, but not regular EDGE/3G phone calls. Combined with the so-far announced pricing from the major carriers absolutely kills any desire for a Tab vs. either an iPad or a Dell Streak. I'm hopiing that some vendor will make a 7-9" tablet/phone combination in the near future.
That's the American version of the GT. The European and Asian GT DOES HAVE calling/3G functionality.
diskmuncher said:
Every review I've read of the US-based versions of the Galaxy Tab (for AT&T/Verizon/Sprint) has said that the Tab will NOT work as a phone.
(sorry, newbie post so I can't post full URL...endgaget has the story)
Skype and other VOIP services work, but not regular EDGE/3G phone calls. Combined with the so-far announced pricing from the major carriers absolutely kills any desire for a Tab vs. either an iPad or a Dell Streak. I'm hopiing that some vendor will make a 7-9" tablet/phone combination in the near future.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
zyborg said:
That's the American version of the GT. The European and Asian GT DOES HAVE calling/3G functionality.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So, if I understand this correctly (?) unlike the iPad where it's 3G cannot use voice but only data, the G-Tab Euro version can connect via voice and make calls, but the US version cannot.... Does this mean the US (north American) model lacks the hardware? I am asking because the voice calling is important to me and I have ordered an unlocked US version but maybe I should go for the Euro version?
Euro tab - no 3g in USA but it has voice capability
Has tab - data and sms/mms and no voice capability
Pick your poison muchachos.
I am personally think about the Sprint version with 2gb/m for 399.99 and 29.99/m.
Why wont the Euro version have 3g? The unlocked Euro version from cellhut and Negrielectronics have everything we need. Should just pop in my AT&T SIM and off I go.
negrielectronics.com/samsung-p1000-galaxy-tab-3g-850-1900-2100-oem-unlocked
cellhut.com/Samsung-P1000-Galaxy-Tab-Unlocked-Quadband-GSM-Cell-Phone-Reviews-29956
If the tab has 3g radios, wouldn't there be a way to transfer voice over it? Of course some hacking would be needed, but i'm sure there is a way. If not, couldn't one just tether to the tab with a phone and then use that to make calls over a "wifi" signal?
To answer to the two previous posts:
Unless the Tab has the ability to change 3G bands (Like its cousins phones from Samsung line), the European version won't be able to have 3G over AT&T (Maybe T-Mobile if I recall well, not sure). However some other versions may be able to do so (The version from Telstra should have the right radio for instance and hopefully voice calls enabled)
Then... hopefully we may not be limited to VoIP on the US Tabs... I hope Samsung didn't really castrate the Tabs here and limitation is just a Software limitation. Just flashing the right Firmware / ROM could restore this function (But then you'll need a different plan than the one your carrier will let you subscribe)
All in all my plan (and hope) is we'll be able to enable the voice calls on the US versions. I'll buy it with no plan and will switch it with my TP2. If not... Then I'll be looking for a version elsewhere in the world that has the proper 3G bands and voice enabled
dboppc130 said:
Why wont the Euro version have 3g? The unlocked Euro version from cellhut and Negrielectronics have everything we need. Should just pop in my AT&T SIM and off I go.
negrielectronics.com/samsung-p1000-galaxy-tab-3g-850-1900-2100-oem-unlocked
cellhut.com/Samsung-P1000-Galaxy-Tab-Unlocked-Quadband-GSM-Cell-Phone-Reviews-29956
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's my thought as well. I purchased the HTC HD2 and used it w/o problem on ATT for more than a year even tho ATT never did specifically support it (which meant I could only get Edge speed - but the GT has 1900 UMTS and the full range of ATT voice GSM freq so it should work OK.
i bought the tab in germany and calling even without headset is very good.
the speaker quality is very good. makes it a brilliant conference phone
I seriously hope that the it is just a software lock because buying a the overseas version vs the u.s. Is a huge price difference , looking at the frequencies of tmobile u.s.a will the overseas version work on 3G here even though tmobile is 1700/2100 ?
When I use aDialer I press # and the number I try to call and it cuts off music and for a second a call icon pops up like something is trying to make a call then ends. If I dont hit # first then it doesn't even try to make the call
Sent from my SPH-P100 using XDA App
it's been brought up in other threads, but I'll get right down to the meat of it: Are the US variant tabs capable of sending and receiving cellular voice calls and texts, hardware wise? In other words, is the hardware there and just disabled by software, or are they physically incapable of this function?
Im on Sprint now, but my goal is to switch to T-Mobile or ATT so I can swap sim cards from my phone to a Tab at will. (yes, I know the tab takes a micro sim, but there are adapters). If the cellular radio is left intact, then rooting and flashing new firmware could enable it. Am I right?
thefoss said:
Im on Sprint now, but my goal is to switch to T-Mobile or ATT so I can swap sim cards from my phone to a Tab at will. (yes, I know the tab takes a micro sim, but there are adapters). If the cellular radio is left intact, then rooting and flashing new firmware could enable it. Am I right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think anyone truly knows if the phone functionality can be re-enabled on the US Tab, but are you sure the US Tab uses micro-SIMs, because the European one just uses standard ones?
Regards,
Dave
foxmeister said:
...but are you sure the US Tab uses micro-SIMs, because the European one just uses standard ones?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Engadget reported that some T-Mobile US customer have been sent microSIMs recently, which lead to a spate of rumours about the iPhone4 but it was supposedly then confirmed that the microSIMs are to do with the Tab instead.
I spoke with T-Mobile tech support early this morning... the tech said according to the trouble shooting guides that they have to use... the hardware is there, but voice has been disabled due to software restrictions. If you look on the product page on the T-Mobile website, the specs listed have all 4 gsm radio frequencies as well as 2 aws 3g radios. The display pic even shows 4 full bars of cellular reception. The tech said voice was not supported at launch... however if the phone was "hacked" (his words) technically it could be used for voice and data. He also said that the data plan for the tab is the android smartphone plan, so if you do flash a new rom and have the unlimited plan... you should be gravy for voice and data!! I hope that all of this turns out to be true... we shall see in the next 2 days.
thanks for the info, im already a tmobile customer and want to do the same thing, flash cyanogen to the tab. I have a nexus one and this would rule. my only other question is...can i use my full upgrade on the tablet? i spoke to a 2nd lev tech support and he said i might have a problem doing that because its tech. not a phone. the regular rep couldnt help me at all, she had no info until launch....didnt even know launch date. again can i use my tmobile upgrade for the tab....
jdmadonna said:
I spoke with T-Mobile tech support early this morning... the tech said according to the trouble shooting guides that they have to use... the hardware is there, but voice has been disabled due to software restrictions. If you look on the product page on the T-Mobile website, the specs listed have all 4 gsm radio frequencies as well as 2 aws 3g radios. The display pic even shows 4 full bars of cellular reception. The tech said voice was not supported at launch... however if the phone was "hacked" (his words) technically it could be used for voice and data. He also said that the data plan for the tab is the android smartphone plan, so if you do flash a new rom and have the unlimited plan... you should be gravy for voice and data!! I hope that all of this turns out to be true... we shall see in the next 2 days.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds good
jdmadonna said:
I spoke with T-Mobile tech support early this morning... the tech said according to the trouble shooting guides that they have to use... the hardware is there, but voice has been disabled due to software restrictions. If you look on the product page on the T-Mobile website, the specs listed have all 4 gsm radio frequencies as well as 2 aws 3g radios. The display pic even shows 4 full bars of cellular reception. The tech said voice was not supported at launch... however if the phone was "hacked" (his words) technically it could be used for voice and data. He also said that the data plan for the tab is the android smartphone plan, so if you do flash a new rom and have the unlimited plan... you should be gravy for voice and data!! I hope that all of this turns out to be true... we shall see in the next 2 days.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
IF this were true, and the hardware is all the same, then that would also lead us to believe that the EUR version should have 850 3G capabilities too then, should it not?
I find it hard to believe it is a software limitation. I HOPE it is but highly doubt it.....fingers crossed
shollywood said:
IF this were true, and the hardware is all the same, then that would also lead us to believe that the EUR version should have 850 3G capabilities too then, should it not?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No.
Rumours are that the T-Mobile US model uses a microSIM.
If that's true, then there must be some sort of difference in hardware between it and the EU models.
shollywood said:
IF this were true, and the hardware is all the same, then that would also lead us to believe that the EUR version should have 850 3G capabilities too then, should it not?
I find it hard to believe it is a software limitation. I HOPE it is but highly doubt it.....fingers crossed
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not necessarily - the Telus Desire and "regular" Desire are essentially the same but have different radios to support different bands.
Regards,
Dave
Just came back from demoing the Tab at my local tmobile store. It does use a standard sim. However the update is this: in the apps management screen, it seems that the only thing missing is the actual phone apk. The phone utility apk is there and the contacts apk is there. It looks like we just need the phone apk and then possibly the contacts merge apk to get voice enabled. Anyhow, the phone is being released at 11am pst tomorrow in my town, mine is on reserve so I will have it by 11:05am pst. anyone who wants to guide me into activating voice on this baby, send me a message and i will be happy to assist with trying some methods out.
I will need to try the following apk's from the euro version:
phone.apk
contactsmerge.apk
oh, the local reps looked on the computer and said that this device WILL require a webconnect data plan, not the unlimited android. There is a work around though... with voice enabled, you can call tmobile and ask for a tech support supervisor, open a trouble ticket and request an engineer to change your device ip range to that of a smartphone... then data and voice should work together. I had this problem on my aws version of the dell streak and it fixed it using unlimited voice and unlimited android data plans.
foxmeister said:
Not necessarily - the Telus Desire and "regular" Desire are essentially the same but have different radios to support different bands.
Regards,
Dave
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So how are they 'essentially" the same then? Different radios means different hardware....
This is my point, the US versions are not going to contain the same hardware, hence it will not be a simple software fix. I HOPE I'm wrong, but I don't see it happening.
shollywood said:
So how are they 'essentially" the same then? Different radios means different hardware....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Because it's one tiny chip that's different, that's all.
The CPU, RAM, camera, display, OS, everything else is the same - hence essentially the same.
shollywood said:
This is my point, the US versions are not going to contain the same hardware, hence it will not be a simple software fix. I HOPE I'm wrong, but I don't see it happening.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As foxmeister has pointed out, most of the hardware will be the same, so if it's as simple as just the 3G chip being different then it's possible that yes it may only require a simple software fix to enable voice calling.
The units don't to be 100% identical for it to just be a software matter.
However, until someone gives it a go there's no way of being sure.
the microsims are for iphone user that have unlocked their phones and port them over to t-mobile (makes it easier then cutting).
as for the plan. webconnect and regualr cellphone plans are two different animals... one customer having a mobile and a data stick will have two accounts. the webconnect plan is actually just data, no voice options. so really the only way for you to use this device as a phone is if you buy it full price and try your android device sim card on there. THEN theoretically it should work.
amdivoff said:
the microsims are for iphone user that have unlocked their phones and port them over to t-mobile (makes it easier then cutting).
as for the plan. webconnect and regualr cellphone plans are two different animals... one customer having a mobile and a data stick will have two accounts. the webconnect plan is actually just data, no voice options. so really the only way for you to use this device as a phone is if you buy it full price and try your android device sim card on there. THEN theoretically it should work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes that's the plan. Paying the full price and if possible enable phone capabilities using a regular smartphone plan
Step666 said:
Because it's one tiny chip that's different, that's all.
The CPU, RAM, camera, display, OS, everything else is the same - hence essentially the same.
As foxmeister has pointed out, most of the hardware will be the same, so if it's as simple as just the 3G chip being different then it's possible that yes it may only require a simple software fix to enable voice calling.
The units don't to be 100% identical for it to just be a software matter.
However, until someone gives it a go there's no way of being sure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So why wouldn't ANYONE just flash the EUR firmware then and have everything enabled? You don't think they thought of that???
jdmadonna said:
Just came back from demoing the Tab at my local tmobile store. It does use a standard sim. However the update is this: in the apps management screen, it seems that the only thing missing is the actual phone apk. The phone utility apk is there and the contacts apk is there. It looks like we just need the phone apk and then possibly the contacts merge apk to get voice enabled. Anyhow, the phone is being released at 11am pst tomorrow in my town, mine is on reserve so I will have it by 11:05am pst. anyone who wants to guide me into activating voice on this baby, send me a message and i will be happy to assist with trying some methods out.
I will need to try the following apk's from the euro version:
phone.apk
contactsmerge.apk
oh, the local reps looked on the computer and said that this device WILL require a webconnect data plan, not the unlimited android. There is a work around though... with voice enabled, you can call tmobile and ask for a tech support supervisor, open a trouble ticket and request an engineer to change your device ip range to that of a smartphone... then data and voice should work together. I had this problem on my aws version of the dell streak and it fixed it using unlimited voice and unlimited android data plans.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bet we'll know within a week whether it can make calls or not. And if I have to take a bet I'll say... it can
I have never wanted to be more wrong on something...but I'll take that bet.
Step666 said:
Because it's one tiny chip that's different, that's all.
The CPU, RAM, camera, display, OS, everything else is the same - hence essentially the same.
As foxmeister has pointed out, most of the hardware will be the same, so if it's as simple as just the 3G chip being different then it's possible that yes it may only require a simple software fix to enable voice calling.
The units don't to be 100% identical for it to just be a software matter.
However, until someone gives it a go there's no way of being sure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interesting logic....
So the Wave and the Galaxy S are "essentially" the same then....you cannot just throw Android on it and away you go...your logic would say otherwise.
The Wave too has the same CPU, RAM, Camera...etc. as the Galaxy S
Mine is onhold and waiting for me... I have a friend who knows Android tweaks inside and out ready to help me in the morning... hopefully we will know soon.
shollywood said:
So why wouldn't ANYONE just flash the EUR firmware then and have everything enabled? You don't think they thought of that???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The same logic applies to locked and unlocked handsets, quite often it's just software 'so why wouldn't anyone just flash the generic firmware?'
It's a risk, that's why people don't do it.
However, in this case there may be something to be gained from taking that risk.
Unfortunately, we won't know for sure one way or the other until some intrepid soul takes that risk.
But the fact still remains, the vast majority of the hardware (ie basically everything but the radio) will be the same as the EU model and that means there is the possibility that all the T-Mobile US Tab (or perhaps an AT&T one) needs is a re-flash to activate calling.
shollywood said:
Interesting logic....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
At least I'm using some.
shollywood said:
So the Wave and the Galaxy S are "essentially" the same then....you cannot just throw Android on it and away you go...your logic would say otherwise.
The Wave too has the same CPU, RAM, Camera...etc. as the Galaxy S
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now you're just being absurd.
The two situations are not comparable.
In the case of the Tab we're talking two versions of the same device just with different frequencies supported, both are still the Galaxy Tab, both are still the P1000, it is essentially the same device.
In the situation you have, for reasons unknown, chosen to highlight, they are two different handsets completely - they are different models, they have different model numbers, they just happen to have similar specs.
It would be like saying the Desire and the Trophy are the same just because they have the same CPU, RAM and camera and that you can just 'throw' the OS of one onto the other. It just doesn't work like that.
Or maybe you'd like to lend your expertise to the teams of people around here working tirelessly to port OSs between various handsets? Clearly they've missed a trick with this 'throwing' business you speak of(!)
according to the specs in gsmarena,there is no voice communication function on this device. this is a sad news for us. anyway, can we enable it with connecting a bluetooth headset?
Although I don't have the specific specs sitting in front of me, the tab will likely have the same restrictions that where placed on the US version of the Galaxy Tab (1?).
It will likely require a European rom with the voice capabilities enabled. This is something that all (for the time being) US tabs are going to have to go through, as I guess samsung feels it is to dangerous to allow us dumb Americans to hold it up to our ear and talk (WHO DOES THAT ANYWAY?!)
Personally, I have flashed a new rom and kernel to my galaxy tab (TMOUSA) and use it as my phone (HD2 sim card w/voice+data) and after about another week of testing will be canceling my data plan on the tab all together. (Or when 3g+voice gets finished.) Seems more logical to cancel the data for the 200 fee than pay for a data line I'm not using for another 1.5 years.
So don't count voice out just yet. If the devs at the 7" tab figure out a 3g+voice modem... I can pretty much promise it will happen for the 10.1.
ps. I checked the post on GSMArena and didn't see anywhere on the specs that it had 0 voice capabilities.
I hope that this nice guy will have voice, I returned my SGT 1 to buy this hopefull within the next two month and want to use it as my primary phone, with a bluetooth headset and the SE Liveview as extention, by specs it should be possible to get voice or am I wrong?
GSM band 850/900/1800/1900 is the normal phone band ?!
well seeing all the dissappointing specs from the xoom, i'd go for this one. however, i am not sure worried about it not supporting voice (the previous had one) but if honeycomb supports it. On the xoom so far i haven't seen a single phone icon or program for calling.
And i really want honeycomb..not crappy ugly old android
Any news about phone capability?
I'm looking for a tablet and I need a tablet that can call!
Dou youn know any other 10" tablet that can make phone(and videocall)?
I don't know: Motorola, Acer, Asus, Lg and so on?
DJ Palmis said:
Any news about phone capability?
I'm looking for a tablet and I need a tablet that can call!
Dou youn know any other 10" tablet that can make phone(and videocall)?
I don't know: Motorola, Acer, Asus, Lg and so on?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The current USA 8.9/10.1 versions that have been announced do not have voice call capabilities. There's no news on European ones other than the Vodaphone UK 10.1v version.
omnia1994 said:
according to the specs in gsmarena,there is no voice communication function on this device. this is a sad news for us. anyway, can we enable it with connecting a bluetooth headset?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just pairing a bluetooth headset doesn't magically allow it to make calls over GSM. It has to be a hardware/software combination that's also enabled by the carrier to allow voice calls.
Thank you for your help.. But just today I read on an italian blog that there are hopes that they will allow voice calls: http://technologydroid.blogspot.com/2011/03/galaxy-tab-101-e-89-con-tw-40-posso.html
Well.. I cross my fingers..
So, received my Nexus 4 two days ago. My AT&T sim card is arriving today. I have not turned the phone on (just letting it charge) or paid my bill yet. Will the phone work on AT&T's 4G LTE network, or do I misunderstand its hardware capability?
Rumors along the following lines started floating around yesterday:
"On February 25th Straight Talk will be unavailing a revamped website experience, along with several new mid and high end phones and a new procedure for acquiring and activating AT&T sim cards. The new Straight talk sim cards will work on AT&T 4G LTE networks. You will also be able to view call history and other information if you have a Straight Talk account. For the first time Straight Talk will also allow certain smart phones to be used on their $30 plan and will be expanding the plan to offer more voice minutes (1500) text (2000) and data (300 MB). Enjoy and remember, you heard it here first."
If true, it makes sense that the Straight Talk AT&T sim supply is being depleted.
First, AT&T sims are no longer available on the Straight Talk web site.
Secondly, I saw this post regarding the sims:
"Walmart.com, the only place that's selling the ST SIMS, are running out. Orders are being limited to 2 and they're out of the Micro SIMS now. So you might want to get yours while you can. I've read the forum for the last few months after getting my Nexus 4, my first smartphone believe it or not. Just thought I'd finally post something."
Finally, I also emailed Straight Talk regarding the sim issue:
Please be informed that we are still able to activate the AT&T Bring
Your Own Phone (BYOP) SIM cards. However, the BYOP AT&T SIM cards are
not available for online purchase in our website at this time. They are
available for purchase on the Wal-Mart website (www.walmart.com) and
from participating Wal-Mart retailer stores nationwide. Our records also
indicate that AT&T service is provided in the zip code <removed>. Please be
advised that we have not received any feedback about AT&T canceling
their contract with our service.
for LTE check HERE
should give you some basic info
aaronrw said:
for LTE check HERE
should give you some basic info
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's even worse.......that would mean that my operating system is obsolete and I can't ever upgrade if I want LTE. From what I am coming to understand is that not all the LTE circuitry is in the phone anyway (like amplifiers for instance) so it would not work properly anyway, and the phone was never certified for LTE so I guess that is why they removed the capability in software.
yes. every device is obsolete the moment it hits retail. there's always something better in development.
btw, there are a few things I should clear up:
1. the radio/baseband is NOT the operating system. it only provides reception to the device.
2. android is not an operating system. it is random optional memory, or a firmware, if you prefer to look at it like that.
3. just use the old radio and the newest version of android together. the only change wiith the new radio is they killed band 4 so you can't connect to lte. I'm coming from a nexus s 4g, and I never updated my radio for the whole life of the device until about 3 months ago. the only thing it affects at all is your voice/data signal. Your phone wouldn't ever know the difference, unless they start making radio updates mandatory.....then you can start crying about losing lte. and I'll be right next to you with a tissue in my hand, as well.
pjc123 said:
So, received my Nexus 4 two days ago. My AT&T sim card is arriving today. I have not turned the phone on (just letting it charge) or paid my bill yet. Will the phone work on AT&T's 4G LTE network, or do I misunderstand its hardware capability?
Rumors along the following lines started floating around yesterday:
"On February 25th Straight Talk will be unavailing a revamped website experience, along with several new mid and high end phones and a new procedure for acquiring and activating AT&T sim cards. The new Straight talk sim cards will work on AT&T 4G LTE networks. You will also be able to view call history and other information if you have a Straight Talk account. For the first time Straight Talk will also allow certain smart phones to be used on their $30 plan and will be expanding the plan to offer more voice minutes (1500) text (2000) and data (300 MB). Enjoy and remember, you heard it here first."
If true, it makes sense that the Straight Talk AT&T sim supply is being depleted.
First, AT&T sims are no longer available on the Straight Talk web site.
Secondly, I saw this post regarding the sims:
"Walmart.com, the only place that's selling the ST SIMS, are running out. Orders are being limited to 2 and they're out of the Micro SIMS now. So you might want to get yours while you can. I've read the forum for the last few months after getting my Nexus 4, my first smartphone believe it or not. Just thought I'd finally post something."
Finally, I also emailed Straight Talk regarding the sim issue:
Please be informed that we are still able to activate the AT&T Bring
Your Own Phone (BYOP) SIM cards. However, the BYOP AT&T SIM cards are
not available for online purchase in our website at this time. They are
available for purchase on the Wal-Mart website (www.walmart.com) and
from participating Wal-Mart retailer stores nationwide. Our records also
indicate that AT&T service is provided in the zip code <removed>. Please be
advised that we have not received any feedback about AT&T canceling
their contract with our service.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i don't get it, what the heck is straight talk? and how is your phone obsolete?
That's the basic gist of any product these days.
Now with the Nexus 4, that made it even a bit worse since it didn't come with the hardware needed to work. Then again having LTE is such a big deal to you then guess you bought the phone without doing any research.
hp420 said:
yes. every device is obsolete the moment it hits retail. there's always something better in development.
btw, there are a few things I should clear up:
1. the radio/baseband is NOT the operating system. it only provides reception to the device.
2. android is not an operating system. it is random optional memory, or a firmware, if you prefer to look at it like that.
3. just use the old radio and the newest version of android together. the only change wiith the new radio is they killed band 4 so you can't connect to lte. I'm coming from a nexus s 4g, and I never updated my radio for the whole life of the device until about 3 months ago. the only thing it affects at all is your voice/data signal. Your phone wouldn't ever know the difference, unless they start making radio updates mandatory.....then you can start crying about losing lte. and I'll be right next to you with a tissue in my hand, as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for clearing that up. But is the LTE crippled by missing components like I have read, or is that another falacy?
shotta35 said:
Then again having LTE is such a big deal to you then guess you bought the phone without doing any research.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually I knew that LTE was not listed in the specs for the device before I bought the device. It was the very recent software update that concerned me, and yes again, they have every right to totally disable LTE in the future if they so choose. It was a lot cheaper than the Galaxy S III, so it is a gamble. Thanks for your constructive answer by the way.
pjc123 said:
Thanks for clearing that up. But is the LTE crippled by missing components like I have read, or is that another falacy?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
crippled?!?!?! hahahaha!!! what you read were reviews immediately after the phone launched where it waspointed out that the lte chip is present, but no one was connecting. the only thing that could be construed as 'crippled' is the fact that it can only connect to band 4 lte. but if you use band 4, you would never know anything was different.
Just sign up with a carrier that uses band 4 lte and you'll be fine. None in the US currently do, but tmobile is going to launch theirs soon, and it will be band 4. I've also heard rumors of users getting lte working on at&t, but since my hatred for at&t runs deep, I wouldn't even consider using them, so I never paid attention to how it's done.
hp420 said:
crippled?!?!?! hahahaha!!! what you read were reviews immediately after the phone launched where it waspointed out that the lte chip is present, but no one was connecting. the only thing that could be construed as 'crippled' is the fact that it can only connect to band 4 lte. but if you use band 4, you would never know anything was different.
Just sign up with a carrier that uses band 4 lte and you'll be fine. None in the US currently do, but tmobile is going to launch theirs soon, and it will be band 4. I've also heard rumors of users getting lte working on at&t, but since my hatred for at&t runs deep, I wouldn't even consider using them, so I never paid attention to how it's done.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great. This is my first smartphone, and I am trying to read up on the technology on several forums as fast as possible, so excuse my lack of knowledge. I have been supporting Linux for 10 years, so quite honestly my first priority is to root the device and install Busybox so I have a portable device with command line access via wifi with the most Linux commands available to all of my Linux servers at home, especially my Raspberry Pi for a project that I am building. Also hoping for Ubuntu on Android for this phone (Actually would prefer Red Hat/Centos/Fedora for Android). Second priority is phone calls. Third priority is data (HPSA+, 3G, 4G, etc.). I figure what I would have to pay for a camera, GPS, etc., as standalone devices, of which I own none, this is a fantastic deal.
hp420 said:
yes. every device is obsolete the moment it hits retail. there's always something better in development.
btw, there are a few things I should clear up:
1. the radio/baseband is NOT the operating system. it only provides reception to the device.
2. android is not an operating system. it is random optional memory, or a firmware, if you prefer to look at it like that.
3. just use the old radio and the newest version of android together. the only change wiith the new radio is they killed band 4 so you can't connect to lte. I'm coming from a nexus s 4g, and I never updated my radio for the whole life of the device until about 3 months ago. the only thing it affects at all is your voice/data signal. Your phone wouldn't ever know the difference, unless they start making radio updates mandatory.....then you can start crying about losing lte. and I'll be right next to you with a tissue in my hand, as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How is android NOT an OS???
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
hp420 said:
crippled?!?!?! hahahaha!!! what you read were reviews immediately after the phone launched where it waspointed out that the lte chip is present, but no one was connecting. the only thing that could be construed as 'crippled' is the fact that it can only connect to band 4 lte. but if you use band 4, you would never know anything was different.
Just sign up with a carrier that uses band 4 lte and you'll be fine. None in the US currently do, but tmobile is going to launch theirs soon, and it will be band 4. I've also heard rumors of users getting lte working on at&t, but since my hatred for at&t runs deep, I wouldn't even consider using them, so I never paid attention to how it's done.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is crippled. There is no amplifier.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2
joshnichols189 said:
It is crippled. There is no amplifier.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sigh. There is an amplifier and all the hardware necessary to connect to and use LTE if your carrier uses band 4. Plenty if canucks have been doing it for months.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
shultz11588 said:
How is android NOT an OS???
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
by definition, that's how.
wikipedia said:
An operating system (OS) is a collection of software that manages computer hardware resources and provides common services for computer programs. The operating system is a vital component of the system software in a computer system.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
android is not software, but rather firmware
wikipedia said:
Computer software, or just software, is a collection of computer programs and related data that provides the instructions for telling a computer what to do and how to do it. Software refers to one or more computer programs and data held in the storage of the computer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
wikipedia said:
In electronic systems and computing, firmware is the combination of persistent memory and program code and data stored in it.[1] Typical examples of devices containing firmware are embedded systems (such as traffic lights, consumer appliances, and digital watches), computers, computer peripherals, mobile phones, and digital cameras. The firmware contained in these devices provides the control program for the device. Firmware is held in non-volatile memory devices such as ROM, EPROM, or flash memory.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Notice the bold in the last quote? This is the defining difference.
hp420 said:
by definition, that's how.
android is not software, but rather firmware
Notice the bold in the last quote? This is the defining difference.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you interpret and connect the two definitions like that, then iOS, Windows Phone 8, etc., none of them are OSes. If someone load an OS onto a ROM, it automatically becomes NOT an OS? Firmware contains program code, and part of the code can be the OS. Firmware and OS are not mutually exclusive. An OS is defined by its functionality, not where or how it is stored.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
hp420 said:
by definition, that's how.
android is not software, but rather firmware
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I installed and ran android on my laptop. So how does that fit with your clever definition!!
An OS is not defined by the media it is on, you can run Linux off a USB stick,its still an OS.
Your interpretation of that definition is wrong, you have decided to just force it to fit in with your incorrect understanding
Also correct me if I am mistaken but the radio is also what starts the boot process? I read somewhere that it is the first thing to load and bootstraps in the rest of the OS? So it does a bit more than just provide reception.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
The Nvidia FAQ no longer lists the international version which supports LTE band 1 and phone calls. It still says there are three LTE versions of the Shield tablet but lists only 2. This may mean that Nvidia has eliminated the model. Unfortunately, that is the version I am interested in buying. I need support for band 1 and I want to be able to make phone calls.
Does anyone have any info on this?
http://shield.nvidia.com/tablet-faq/
WHAT CELLULAR NETWORKS DOES THE SHIELD TABLET LTE SUPPORT?
There are three versions of SHIELD tablet LTE. There is a North American version that works on AT&T, T-Mobile and Rogers on LTE bands 2, 4, 5, 7, and 17 and HSPA bands 1, 2, 4, 5.
There is a second International version that works on popular European and Asian networks. It supports LTE bands 3, 7, 20 and HSPA+ bands 1, 2, 5, 8.
Check with your favorite carrier to verify coverage in your area.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
PS If they actually produce the third LTE version, I would like to purchase it in the USA.
PPS The description below no longer appears in the FAQ.
The third version also works on popular International carriers, in addition to including voice support on compatible networks. It supports LTE bands 1, 3, 7, 20 and HSPA+ bands 1, 2, 5, 8.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Explore3 said:
The Nvidia FAQ no longer lists the international version which supports LTE band 1 and phone calls. It still says there are three LTE versions of the Shield tablet but lists only 2. This may mean that Nvidia has eliminated the model. Unfortunately, that is the version I am interested in buying. I need support for band 1 and I want to be able to make phone calls.
Does anyone have any info on this?
http://shield.nvidia.com/tablet-faq/
PS If they actually produce the third LTE version, I would like to purchase it in the USA.
PPS The description below no longer appears in the FAQ.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well spotted.
The UK site confirms all three but perhaps that is just slow to update
http://shield.nvidia.co.uk/tablet-faq/
Could you work around this by flashing the radio from the recovery image of the LTE variant that suited you? Or is it a bit more complex than that?
The UK FAQs page has been updated. The statement "There are three versions of SHIELD tablet LTE" remains but only two versions are listed.
Typical Nvidia debacle. At least edit the statement to read 'two versions'.
is there a way to enable the Band 1? im here at the Philippines and im only getting 3G connection whilst using my Phone with same Simcard i can get LTE signals
You can still text and phone from shield; as long as you're connected..
I know this might not be the info youre looking for specifically, but...
I believe it can help some people, like it helped me
I couldnt sleep without having a chance of a phone options on this tablet until i found the solution the day 3 since owning the Shield. There is an app for this purpose on playstore, and its totally free. To some extent, still worth the try.
Look for editor choice app, after typing in "textplus" you should have it burning into your eyes upon confirming that search. textPlus Free Text + Calls
Now, i havent tried phone calls yet, you get free 5 minutes and the rest can be added free by watching 15 second videos, completing surveys, sharing on social sites etc. (Videos work decent easy , if you got time and patience you could get 100 minutes a day, if not more than that )
You register an account with them, email, simple, pick your area phone and get a number from them. Text works like a charm. Although i did not try to install any other sms app on it, only using the very app itself for messaging and it does serve its purpose well.
I hope i helped to some of you guys. No rooting, common sense simple, free. Exactly what i was looking for.