Database Users

Should I Make the Switch?

So my first android device I bought was a mytouch3G a few days ago. I love it, but it's just a bit slow. I'm thinking about selling it and getting some cash to buy the N1. My question is, do you guys think this phone is worth getting right now? Or is there a better Android phone out there than this one? I'm NOT going to be using the T-Mobile data plan, btw. Is there anything coming out soon that will cause a price drop?
Thanks.
edit: mods I realized I posted this in the wrong forum, please feel free to move it.

The N1 is amazing, especially coming from something like the mytouch3G. The Nexus one (tmobile version) can be bought as a Dev phone currently from Google at the normal price ($529) plus a $25 developer activation fee. You certainly wont regret the N1 if you decide to get it.
Another good Tmobile phone is the Vibrant, in general it meets if not slightly beat the nexus one in many departments even without froyo's JIT. And you can get a Vibrant for a little less then the $550 you would pay for a Nexus One.
Of course both can be found on Craigslist or ebay at a huge degree of different prices also.
Nothing I can think of that would cause any major price drops in the near future. ALSO there is the new HSPA+ flagphone that will be out soon that I'm certainly interested in.
My advise is to look at the tmobile android lineup (curent and future) and see if you know of anyone or go to the store and see if you can test them and if you like them more then the mytouch.
-Cheers

Best phone ever best android experience as well
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App

To put this as objectively as possible coming from a n1 user. The nexus one is a nice phone if you're very into customizing, from my knowledge of android devices, it's the top for modding. However it all depends on what you're going to be doing on the phone. For example if you're going to be playing games that require multitouch (nova) then it does have an issue with its multitouch. To some that's not an issue cause they don't game to others it is. The other major issue that I see at least for me is the small internal storage space. 512mb, really google? That's just two of the issues that I would really liked to be different, they're the only real issues for me. An hdmi out would be nice, but I wouldn't use it that much i'm assuming so it's not a deal breaker for me, same thing with a front facing camera.
But then you have things like the trackball that's nice for notifications, the screen size is just right, it's powerful and everything AND it gets all the updates first! It has a flash, the camera is pretty good actually (even though I hate cell cameras).
The only device on T-mobile that I can see as being another option would be the samsung vibrant, especially if you plan to play games on it, since it doesn't have the multitouch issue, and the gpu is really powerful. Problems with the device for me is the lack of a flash for the vibrant.
As for is it worth it? Well that depends on if spending the money is worth it and if you're going to get another phone anyways, yes the n1 is a great phone if you can overlook the multitouch issue and the small internal storage space.
EDIT: one more issue that I have with the n1 is that the audio is kinda bad, the speakers are quiet, and the headphone's sound is also quiet. Just wish the sound could be up'ed more so that it's a reasonable sound quality. Just seems more quieter than other android phones that I've had.

htc420 said:
So my first android device I bought was a mytouch3G a few days ago. I love it, but it's just a bit slow. I'm thinking about selling it and getting some cash to buy the N1. My question is, do you guys think this phone is worth getting right now? Or is there a better Android phone out there than this one? I'm NOT going to be using the T-Mobile data plan, btw. Is there anything coming out soon that will cause a price drop?
Thanks.
edit: mods I realized I posted this in the wrong forum, please feel free to move it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Either get the N1 right now, it's still an amazing phone, and I see NOTHING in market right now that I'd trade it for.
Or, wait several months for next gen to come out, something with an even stronger CPU, maybe even gingerbread around Christmas. And NO, it won't be called a Nexus Two.
Me, I'm wating for that second option. No smartphone/PDA on the market today appeals to me as an upgrade.

unfortunately price wont drop for a while, it's now a dev phone. but once you have it in ur hand, im sure ud feel the price was worth it. you can always sell the N1 too with if you dont like it. and if you're geek enough, have a flashing addiction of nightlies, constantly making trying out something new with ur phone, this should be it.

I was in your same position. I got the My Touch 3g 1.2. And it was awesome, but I read somewhere that it was like a mini Nexus One and that made me more curious. I sold the phone soon after, and found a Nexus One, and it really is an incredible device, with an operating system built and tested specially or it (FRF91). The one downside is that you have to worry about the Nexus One a bit more. When my ipod is dead, the MT3G was ok for the gym, but not the N1. It has actually forced me to take better care of my phone, and other devices in general. It was a good decision, for sure.
Most of the upcoming Android phones seem to be rebuilt versions of this phone, and the N1 is still expected to get most updates, app add-ons and functions first. All dual core processor phones are still a long way away and are only rumored devices. If you are extremely patient you could wait it out, or just buy the N1 and sell it in a year.

One item on the list "to consider" might be - Nexus will be the 1st existing device to get Gingerbread update, probably by a considerable time margin.

If you're not gonna use data, I wouldn't drop money on a nexus one or a top of the line smartphone for that matter.

dooo it! my touch3g is old and slow!!!!

Buying a Nexus One for $554 plus tax without a data plan would be absolute and downright insanity.

Wouldn't do it without a data plan!

JCopernicus said:
If you're not gonna use data, I wouldn't drop money on a nexus one or a top of the line smartphone for that matter.
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galaxys said:
Wouldn't do it without a data plan!
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Haha, why not? I'm surrounded by WiFi literally EVERYWHERE. Is it because this phone limits what you can do on it without the data plan, like what BlackBerry does? I know with BB, you can't use certain apps, programs, features, etc without having a data plan. Is this the same?
And I'm not dropping 500+, hoping somewhere in the 300-350 price range, used on craigslist.
edit: Also, If I wanted to add a data plan, would I be able to do it without starting a new contract? Because a dealer that I personally know hooked me up with a no contract plan for tmo ($30+tax for unlimited calls and text, but no web).
Thanks.

no there is nothing limited by not having a data plan. and if you are near wifi all day then its will be just the same. but when you're driving in your car and want to use navigation, or look something up on google maps, wifi isnt gonna help you. that's what they're saying.
and yes you can add a data plan anytime without extending your contract on most any carrier nowadays.

LOL
i buy my N1 without data plan xD
i dont regret since i have wifi around in my work and home and im outside wifi range like 4 hours at day in bus or subway.
and im fine perhaps its like kill a fly wit a cannon
i will get in 10 days my 3g plan (too expensive here >_< )
but yea after months with wifi, all its ok but with 3g AMAZING phone

htc420 said:
Haha, why not? I'm surrounded by WiFi literally EVERYWHERE. Is it because this phone limits what you can do on it without the data plan, like what BlackBerry does? I know with BB, you can't use certain apps, programs, features, etc without having a data plan. Is this the same?
And I'm not dropping 500+, hoping somewhere in the 300-350 price range, used on craigslist.
edit: Also, If I wanted to add a data plan, would I be able to do it without starting a new contract? Because a dealer that I personally know hooked me up with a no contract plan for tmo ($30+tax for unlimited calls and text, but no web).
Thanks.
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Click to collapse
I guess anywhere I have wifi, I have computer access, so I don't really touch my phone during those times.
There's no restrictions from the OS itself regarding data.
If you want super cheap data, go to the t-mo website, set up and account. The when it asks you for your phone type, just put in a generic non-smartphone phone. You'll be able to add the $10 "dumbphone" internet, which is the same as the "android" plan.

JCopernicus said:
If you want super cheap data, go to the t-mo website, set up and account. The when it asks you for your phone type, just put in a generic non-smartphone phone. You'll be able to add the $10 "dumbphone" internet, which is the same as the "android" plan.
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Click to collapse
Interesting. First time I hear of that. Can't they find out what phone you have once they scan the phone?
[Edit]: I just checked my T-Mobile account and it shows up as Unknown Phone: "Sorry—we’re not sure which phone you’re using, so we’re not able to display resources. Please select a phone".
What's to prevent me from changing my account to the $10 dumbphone plan?

Paul22000 said:
Interesting. First time I hear of that. Can't they find out what phone you have once they scan the phone?
[Edit]: I just checked my T-Mobile account and it shows up as Unknown Phone: "Sorry—we’re not sure which phone you’re using, so we’re not able to display resources. Please select a phone".
What's to prevent me from changing my account to the $10 dumbphone plan?
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Click to collapse
Scruples.
If you're on contract you won't be able to change the android plan without an ETF.
They surely can scan your imei and figure out which phone you have (ATT does this), but T-Mobile has not not started doing that yet.

JCopernicus said:
Scruples.
If you're on contract you won't be able to change the android plan without an ETF.
They surely can scan your imei and figure out which phone you have (ATT does this), but T-Mobile has not not started doing that yet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Because T-Mobile is the ****! I cautiously walked away from ATT and Verizon a few years ago and was amazed at what I found in Tmobile, I will never go back

Paul22000 said:
Interesting. First time I hear of that. Can't they find out what phone you have once they scan the phone?
[Edit]: I just checked my T-Mobile account and it shows up as Unknown Phone: "Sorry—we’re not sure which phone you’re using, so we’re not able to display resources. Please select a phone".
What's to prevent me from changing my account to the $10 dumbphone plan?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nothing...many other carriers check your imei number but tmobile rarely does anything with it. Try it, the worse that could happen is they figure out you have a smartphone and bump you back up to what you are currently paying. Theoretically there is no difference between the dumbphone and the smartphone variant (im pretty sure).

Nexus 4 On Solavei or...?

Hey guys, so I have been with Straight Talk since this phone came out, and I have had it with them. I didn't get throttled this time, they completely shut down my data. I called to ask as to how much I used so I can be aware and watch my usage next month, and they said that they cant disclose that..... WTF So i have no idea if I got throttled at 2GB or 3 or 4GB? I never received a warning either, they simply just shut me down, i thought it was my rom or something...nope. BTW i never download files to my phone and if I do i wait till I am home on WiFi... they did this to my brother too, and I have lost data several times with them on other occasions where they say that they're updating their towers(BS) but I am left with out data for up to 2 days in some cases. Now what good is a smartphone without data? Or yet how are we to know when unlimited is truly not u unlimited.
I have also looked into simply going with T-Mobile prepaid but their expensive compared to other companies for the amount of data they offer.
Anyhow I am looking for another MVNO to go to, the one that is catching my eye is Solavei because they INDICATE that they will throttle you after 4GB. My question is do they throttle you, or do they cut you off like ST?
Anyone have another company that they recommend?

Jess813 said:
Hey guys, so I have been with Straight Talk since this phone came out, and I have had it with them. I didn't get throttled this time, they completely shut down my data. I called to ask as to how much I used so I can be aware and watch my usage next month, and they said that they cant disclose that..... WTF So i have no idea if I got throttled at 2GB or 3 or 4GB? I never received a warning either, they simply just shut me down, i thought it was my rom or something...nope. BTW i never download files to my phone and if I do i wait till I am home on WiFi... they did this to my brother too, and I have lost data several times with them on other occasions where they say that they're updating their towers(BS) but I am left with out data for up to 2 days in some cases. Now what good is a smartphone without data? Or yet how are we to know when unlimited is truly not u unlimited.
I have also looked into simply going with T-Mobile prepaid but their expensive compared to other companies for the amount of data they offer.
Anyhow I am looking for another MVNO to go to, the one that is catching my eye is Solavei because they INDICATE that they will throttle you after 4GB. My question is do they throttle you, or do they cut you off like ST?
Anyone have another company that they recommend?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Amen. I've had it with Net10 also. They shut down my wife's data completely after her family conducted a brilliant tethering experiment and she is at 730MB of 1.5 GB. She needed Navigation for a visit to the frakkin ER and had no data. I'll be hunting a new MVNO soon.
I've seen some feedback on Red Pocket, but it's $60/line for 2GB/Mo. and I've seen some complaints on that too. I haven't seen Solavei in my travels, but let me know what you decide. I'll be tracking responses to this thread for feedback.

surferdude73 said:
Amen. I've had it with Net10 also. They shut down my wife's data completely after her family conducted a brilliant tethering experiment and she is at 730MB of 1.5 GB. She needed Navigation for a visit to the frakkin ER and had no data. I'll be hunting a new MVNO soon.
I've seen some feedback on Red Pocket, but it's $60/line for 2GB/Mo. and I've seen some complaints on that too. I haven't seen Solavei in my travels, but let me know what you decide. I'll be tracking responses to this thread for feedback.
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Yep tell me about it, and when you call and ask about it, they transfer you to an automated system. In the message it says " If you would like to take your number to another provider, we will happily release it...... WOW
yeah right now I am looking into this post on this website and it looks like Solavei(uses T-Mobile) is the best one....
http://www.extremetech.com/mobile/1...locked-nexus-4-american-gsm-networks-compared

I have heard decent things about Solavei, worth a try. They cap 4G at 4GB which is pretty decent for a prepaid carrier.
-Sent from Marino's Maxx-

Jess813 said:
Yep tell me about it, and when you call and ask about it, they transfer you to an automated system. In the message it says " If you would like to take your number to another provider, we will happily release it...... WOW
yeah right now I am looking into this post on this website and it looks like Solavei(uses T-Mobile) is the best one....
http://www.extremetech.com/mobile/1...locked-nexus-4-american-gsm-networks-compared
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Click to collapse
Thanks for the link. You might also want to check this... Airvoice looks ok:
http://www.howardforums.com/showthread.php/1795278-Ranking-the-Att-mvnos
And you are right about the "releasing your number" message line. That was enough to make me switch just on principle.
I Am Marino said:
I have heard decent things about Solavei, worth a try. They cap 4G at 4GB which is pretty decent for a prepaid carrier.
-Sent from Marino's Maxx-
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Click to collapse
Yeah 4GB would suit us fine. Historical usage is around 1GB /month.

How much data and minutes do you need and what's your budget?
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app

[Q] Pros and cons of Sprint S4

Hello,
I have been using an S2 for years, and while receiving/sending text messages my phone locked up Steady blue light, hold power button on and a momentary led off period and then a steady blue light. The short story apparently I have a bricked phone.
I really like the S2, and I was all ready to upgrade to the S4 and then I started reading reviews and became a bit worried about the S4 and the screen being ""more fragile" than previous models among various other issues including poor wifi and battery etc.etc. I would appreciate some user input on the S4, good and/or bad, and if it looks grim I may just pick up a used S2 and stick with that.
Thanks!
Tom

Best phone I've had (so far) and I've owened about three dozen over the past 30 years of all makes, manufactures, operating systems and carriers. I've dropped my s4 a dozen times and have had no issues (and I only used a screen protector and soft 'caseology' case. Though I did just acuire an Otterbox waterproof jobber; but it's useless without BT because people can't hear ME)

I really love my S4 from sprint. I have been using it for about three months now. No complaints at all thus far. I use an otterbox case. The raised rubber ridges do a very good job of keeping the screen protected.
Sent via mobile

I upgraded from a S2 and it's been a night and day difference for me.
Faster, better looking, much better screen in terms of clarity, detail, and legibility under sunlight, better battery life, more case choices & other accessories, better sound, reliable & fast-locking GPS, and more custom ROM options. It has also been very stable and easy to keep up its stability & performance.
Although I was very fond of my S2 b/c it was my first smartphone, I gladly left it behind.
I also daily a Nexus 5 with a monthly T-Mobile SIM plan and I like my S4 more. Before that, I owned a Note 3 for a couple weeks but returned it b/c it was too big for my pockets, especially my work dress pants.

That S2 is going to feel like an old Texas Instruments calculator once you fire up the S4.

I agree with All of the Above and since I upgraded w/o knowledge of Knox I've not rooted this yet. The phone has a lot of customizing already which makes it a lot easier to handle not being rooted.
MY Only issue is Sprint getting ready to add Spark LTE which means I would need a TRI Band phone and this is Not! I feel ripped off by Sprint to be pushing the S4 so strong knowing they would be adding a service this phone can not use.
My Sprint tech said current TRI band is LG2 but I want a phone with a sd card and removable battery. Not sure because didn't want to get my hopes up but the S5 maybe TRI? I figure why tick myself off more by looking at phones I can't get until this 2 yr contract expires.
All that to say check the Spark LTE service for your area and if it is going to happen get yourself a TRI band phone.
Disclaimer: 2 of my Sprint contacts disagree about Spark because once says reality is OKC is not a major market for Spark yet and by the time we get it I'll be up gradable? The other says we will have the service. So for me it is a 50/50 issue.
checkout: www.phonearena.com Great Side by Side Comparison Ability
This is really a great phone!

jtsv said:
I agree with All of the Above and since I upgraded w/o knowledge of Knox I've not rooted this yet. The phone has a lot of customizing already which makes it a lot easier to handle not being rooted.
MY Only issue is Sprint getting ready to add Spark LTE which means I would need a TRI Band phone and this is Not! I feel ripped off by Sprint to be pushing the S4 so strong knowing they would be adding a service this phone can not use.
My Sprint tech said current TRI band is LG2 but I want a phone with a sd card and removable battery. Not sure because didn't want to get my hopes up but the S5 maybe TRI? I figure why tick myself off more by looking at phones I can't get until this 2 yr contract expires.
All that to say check the Spark LTE service for your area and if it is going to happen get yourself a TRI band phone.
Disclaimer: 2 of my Sprint contacts disagree about Spark because once says reality is OKC is not a major market for Spark yet and by the time we get it I'll be up gradable? The other says we will have the service. So for me it is a 50/50 issue.
checkout: www.phonearena.com Great Side by Side Comparison Ability
This is really a great phone!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you read this article yet? http://www.geek.com/android/sprints-tri-band-lte-phones-offering-crippled-service-for-the-forseeable-future-1577462/
Many people I know have gotten tri-band devices are are experiencing these same issues currently.

tkepk181 said:
Have you read this article yet? http://www.geek.com/android/sprints...ed-service-for-the-forseeable-future-1577462/
Many people I know have gotten tri-band devices are are experiencing these same issues currently.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Really even after 4 months from the publication of that article? I've seen triband phones in LA and they work fine.
Sent from my SPH-L720 using Tapatalk

tkepk181 said:
Have you read this article yet? http://www.geek.com/android/sprints-tri-band-lte-phones-offering-crippled-service-for-the-forseeable-future-1577462/
Many people I know have gotten tri-band devices are are experiencing these same issues currently.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
NO hadn't seen it Thanks that makes things a whole lot better. I'm with you I couldn't pass up on a Pre Black Friday Sale at Sam's .96 cent S4.
Just quite carrying my rooted 4.4.2 S3 (cracked screen) wifi only use because I needed to just stop w/root and use my new phone. Been running great but had junked up memory w/too much stuff so clean factory reset yesterday been a lot better so far. My son's iP5 was having issues because of google voice and sprint integration so I've left it off this phone for me for now until I figure out if i need it or not.
---------- Post added at 12:20 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:04 PM ----------
daniel4653 said:
Really even after 4 months from the publication of that article? I've seen triband phones in LA and they work fine.
Sent from my SPH-L720 using Tapatalk
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Guess it is on an actual phone by phone basis depending on the coverage area. Where I live in OKC, older area of the city everything is poor. Sprint has towers close by but my service is very spotty, cable has more issues. U-verse just dropped in the area however they said it wouldn't because they didn't want to have all the issues with the older neighborhoods and historical preservation.
I can have 4G on my phone while my wife with the same phone sitting next to me has 3G. Sprint tech's here say all issue are because we are not a major market.

daniel4653 said:
Really even after 4 months from the publication of that article? I've seen triband phones in LA and they work fine.
Sent from my SPH-L720 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's all well and good but the internet is littered with Sprint tri-band phone owners talking about the issues that are brought up in that article. I was merely pointing out something to consider when thinking about upgrading to a tri-band phone on the Sprint network that's all.

Thank you all for your input, I appreciate it greatly! I currently have the S4 and can say that it does indeed survive a fall (not more than 10 feet outside the Sprint door). I have it rooted and am enjoying the speed (both LTE and CPU) gains I have made with the upgrade. :good:
One thing I never gave a single thought about was the dedicated button, depending on how you hold your phone, it can be a pita to actuate! I may go against the status quo, but I really like the soft keys of the S2 and the more centered back button of the S2. Time will tell, and those are some trivial things, but some very often used items.
For those interested I used Saferoot, and ran it twice in order to get busy box installed. I must have toggled a security setting "Verify Apps" as it blocked the install on the first attempt. Phone came with 4.3 MK5 installed and I honestly couldn't tell you how the battery is as I have had my hands on it non-stop. I much prefer the older Samsung charge/USB cords, the new ones are extremely stiff. I forseee more charge port problems

The home button isn't hard to reach if you've got real man hands. Haha I'm just kidding. But the stiff charger will loosen up the more you use it. I'm able to roll it up and throw it into my front picket with no problem.
Sent from my SPH-L720 using Tapatalk

lol, my man hands have failed me, remember - I dropped my phone already haha! Also, I briefly read about the info concerning tri-band phones and had no idea that the S4 had the T variant. I wondered what the spark video was when I booted up my phone and thought they were going to tease me for 2 years until I am eligible for another upgrade :laugh:
I officially have the SPH-L720T :good:
/me makes mental note for rom selection

I recommend it! I just upgraded today from my Red HTC One and damn it's blazing fast!!! I'm running the latest S4 with the Spark LTE bands on it and it makes the phone stand out at how quick it loads videos, pages, anything! Get it.

Cudeh said:
I recommend it! I just upgraded today from my Red HTC One and damn it's blazing fast!!! I'm running the latest S4 with the Spark LTE bands on it and it makes the phone stand out at how quick it loads videos, pages, anything! Get it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Fortunate to get the tri band that is a soft spot for me because of Sprint pushing the S4's so much only to release tri band and Spark. I could of held off a while to get it verses jumping early for the S4.

Sprint Support Sucks!

So I went into a Sprint Server Center because my Galaxy S 5 had been acting up for the last couple of months. The most clearly observable problem is that the LTE signal was barely ever engaging anymore, and when it did, it would only get about 1 bar unless I was right next to a tower.
Anyway, the device had a variety of issues that a factory reset would not resolve. I have NEVER rooted this device.
Basically, the store techs told be that they believe me that there are issues with the phone, but since I didn't have the sprint service plan, that they would charge me $75 to return it to Samsung under warranty. What kind of customer service is that? I contacted Samsung direct myself and explained the issues. They gave me a shipping label and it is on its way for service. The only saving grace for sprint is that I was able to self activate my old S3 in the meantime.
ALWAYS keep at least one of your old phones laying around so that you can roll back to it as your own loaner while you wait for service on your real phone.
(Mod Edited to remove bypassed profanities.)

edufur said:
So I went into a Sprint Server Center because my Galaxy S 5 had been acting up for the last couple of months. The most clearly observable problem is that the LTE signal was barely ever engaging anymore, and when it did, it would only get about 1 bar unless I was right next to a tower.
Anyway, the device had a variety of issues that a factory reset would not resolve. I have NEVER rooted this device.
Basically, the store techs told be that they believe me that there are issues with the phone, but since I didn't have the sprint service plan, that they would charge me $75 to return it to Samsung under warranty. What kind of customer service is that? I contacted Samsung direct myself and explained the issues. They gave me a shipping label and it is on its way for service. The only saving grace for sprint is that I was able to self activate my old S3 in the meantime.
ALWAYS keep at least one of your old phones laying around so that you can roll back to it as your own loaner while you wait for service on your real phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Post "repair" your phone will still only show 1 bar of LTE unless you're right next to a tower. The S5, for some reason, is reporting any signal RSRP with a dBm of -100 or lower as 1 bar (down to -125dBm where the S5 will lose signal), even though this value (-100 to -115) is quite capable of holding/sending many datas. If you want a better readout, download the SignalCheck Pro app and have it display it's LTE bars in the notification panel. Then you'll have a better idea of your signal. This is something that I hope and wish that Sprint/Samsung fixes for this exact reason you just posted.
If you don't have Sprint TEP insurance, never walk into a store with your phone needing help. That's just how it goes. Without TEP, they won't do anything for you.

mmark27 said:
Post "repair" your phone will still only show 1 bar of LTE unless you're right next to a tower. The S5, for some reason, is reporting any signal RSRP with a dBm of -100 or lower as 1 bar (down to -125dBm where the S5 will lose signal), even though this value (-100 to -115) is quite capable of holding/sending many datas. If you want a better readout, download the SignalCheck Pro app and have it display it's LTE bars in the notification panel. Then you'll have a better idea of your signal. This is something that I hope and wish that Sprint/Samsung fixes for this exact reason you just posted.
If you don't have Sprint TEP insurance, never walk into a store with your phone needing help. That's just how it goes. Without TEP, they won't do anything for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I actually had the signal check app. I believe what you are saying, but it does not describe my situation. I did side by side tests between my phone and my GFs phone and the radio issue on my phone was real. I showed greater degradation through SigChk than hers. In addition, my phone was regularly falling back to 3G when hers wasn't. Both sprint, both side by side. My phone was also suffering a whole bunch of other problems such as navigation orientation issues, digitizer freezing, and many more. None of these issues were present in my first couple of months of ownership.
On a side note, I am very disappointed that XDA sensors more than youtube does. That is bizzare to me.

Gotcha. Sorry then for my over-analysis. I hope they get you fixed up. Please report back.

edufur said:
I actually had the signal check app. I believe what you are saying, but it does not describe my situation. I did side by side tests between my phone and my GFs phone and the radio issue on my phone was real. I showed greater degradation through SigChk than hers. In addition, my phone was regularly falling back to 3G when hers wasn't. Both sprint, both side by side. My phone was also suffering a whole bunch of other problems such as navigation orientation issues, digitizer freezing, and many more. None of these issues were present in my first couple of months of ownership.
On a side note, I am very disappointed that XDA sensors more than youtube does. That is bizzare to me.
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Click to collapse
Your issue sounds like what I've been reading all over. I have the same issue. What kind of phone does your GF have? You cant compare an S5 to an older phone BC it is a tri-band phone. Compare it to another tri-band phone.
Sent from my SM-G900P using XDA Free mobile app

pastert33 said:
Your issue sounds like what I've been reading all over. I have the same issue. What kind of phone does your GF have? You cant compare an S5 to an older phone BC it is a tri-band phone. Compare it to another tri-band phone.
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Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The comparison was with my GFs Galaxy S4 (triband) and also with my Galaxy S3 (also triband) which I am using while I wait for mine to be returned. My S3, according to the signal check app is running about 15db better on average for the RSRP. The S3 is getting -88dB while my S5 was -103db and up (measured in the same area).
They better fix the phone or there will be hell to pay!

edufur said:
The comparison was with my GFs Galaxy S4 (triband) and also with my Galaxy S3 (also triband) which I am using while I wait for mine to be returned. My S3, according to the signal check app is running about 15db better on average for the RSRP. The S3 is getting -88dB while my S5 was -103db and up (measured in the same area).
They better fix the phone or there will be hell to pay!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've been out of the loop for awhile but I do not think there was ever an S3 tri-band. There were S4 tri-bands but those came after the S4 had been out a year or longer.
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pastert33 said:
I've been out of the loop for awhile but I do not think there was ever an S3 tri-band. There were S4 tri-bands but those came after the S4 had been out a year or longer.
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Click to collapse
I appreciate you input, but if you think about it, what you are saying does not make much sense. I might be wrong about which of those phones are not tri-band, but based on your own implications, tri-band is better.
So, it would stand to reason that even if neither the S4 or S3 are tri-band, then one or both should be worse in signal strength. The fact is that both perform better than my S5 in its last couple of months. Again, my S5 did great for its first two months of service. Something has definitely gone wrong with the radio. If it was a tower problem, it would not be isolated to 1 handset and it certainly wouldn't be consistent across many geographical regions. All of this point to handset, not towers.

edufur said:
I appreciate you input, but if you think about it, what you are saying does not make much sense. I might be wrong about which of those phones are not tri-band, but based on your own implications, tri-band is better.
So, it would stand to reason that even if neither the S4 or S3 are tri-band, then one or both should be worse in signal strength. The fact is that both perform better than my S5 in its last couple of months. Again, my S5 did great for its first two months of service. Something has definitely gone wrong with the radio. If it was a tower problem, it would not be isolated to 1 handset and it certainly wouldn't be consistent across many geographical regions. All of this point to handset, not towers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure how what I say doesn't make sense...if the S3 and S4 are single band radios for voice/data then they would not have issues. Tri-band phones are having the issues. I hope you get it sorted out and please update if/when you find out the problem.
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pastert33 said:
Not sure how what I say doesn't make sense...if the S3 and S4 are single band radios for voice/data then they would not have issues. Tri-band phones are having the issues. I hope you get it sorted out and please update if/when you find out the problem.
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Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'l try to put my S4, S5 and G3 all next to each other in the coming days over various areas and see if I notice a difference in signal.

garwynn said:
I'l try to put my S4, S5 and G3 all next to each other in the coming days over various areas and see if I notice a difference in signal.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
monsignor garwynn, could you please tell me how many Sprint signal bars your G3 reports at -100dBm RSRP on LTE? 1? Does it remain at 1 all the way through to signal loss around -120dBm?
I've tried to ask this question in the G3 threads and it just gets ignored.

I have come back here to eat crow... sort of. Sprint support still sucks. But I thought there was a problem with my phone and Samsung has concluded that there isn't. So, it would seem that the triband issue is plaguing me as well as many others. How is it possible that this problem has gone on for so long? Is there no one addressing it? Can't they just turn off the spark? It all seems to have started when they rolled that out.

edufur said:
I have come back here to eat crow... sort of. Sprint support still sucks. But I thought there was a problem with my phone and Samsung has concluded that there isn't. So, it would seem that the triband issue is plaguing me as well as many others. How is it possible that this problem has gone on for so long? Is there no one addressing it? Can't they just turn off the spark? It all seems to have started when they rolled that out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, "you" can turn off the Spark, by just putting your phone in 3G mode only.....but that sucks.

mmark27 said:
Well, "you" can turn off the Spark, by just putting your phone in 3G mode only.....but that sucks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why would I do that when my issue is that I am mostly stuck in 3G?

edufur said:
Why would I do that when my issue is that I am mostly stuck in 3G?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
BC the technology of tri-band phones are causing this issue. You could set your phone to LTE ONLY but then you would miss calls...up to you
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garwynn said:
I'l try to put my S4, S5 and G3 all next to each other in the coming days over various areas and see if I notice a difference in signal.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use the DBM xposed module to see my exact signal. As far as I've seen, a PRL update can really make a difference to improve signal. My S5 is averaging 23 mbps inside a large building and 50 next to towers. Really its about if you're at a Spark Tower or not. There is still alot of network improvement going on right now, so it'll make a difference.

Wow this posts made me laugh. So let me get this correctly, you are upset because Sprint is the only carrier who offers service centers in store with techs and so they offer a protection plan that allows you to utilize their services like repairing and replacing factory warranty devices in which you chose not to purchase. You then start having problems with your Samsung device and are upset because Sprint offered you a $75 fee to replace your device that is still under manufacturer warranty? Not sure how Sprint sucks.
I personally have the plan. I pay the monthly charge. Guess what? I had an issue with my phone. Took it into a Sprint store. They seen I had the plan. They pulled a replacement (refurb) S5 out of the drawer behind him. I left with a working device that day. That is called a convenience sir. Had I not had the plan I would be just as upset as you are but to post a blog about how the company sucks is just over the top. Had I not had the plan guess what? I would have contacted Samsung. Sent my phone in. Then they would call me and say well sir we noticed this that and the other its gonna cost $ xx.xx to fix. If you dont want to pay then we will ship the device back to you as is. Why deal with that? Warranty is a free service and is not there to help you. The protection plan worked well for me. Now truth be told I actually opened the phone up trying to replace a cracked camera because I had dropped the phone. Screen didnt crack tho. But when I opened the phone I accidently ripped the soft key ribbons so after the reassembly my soft keys didnt work. I took it into Sprint and told them my soft keys "stopped" working. Replacement phone same day. Now just think.... If I took it to Samsung they wouldnt have played so nice. Sorry man but Sprint TEP for the win.
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---------- Post added at 01:48 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:45 PM ----------
Moral of that story: Just get the plan next time.
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youngpro83 said:
Wow this posts made me laugh. So let me get this correctly, you are upset because Sprint is the only carrier who offers service centers in store with techs and so they offer a protection plan that allows you to utilize their services like repairing and replacing factory warranty devices in which you chose not to purchase. You then start having problems with your Samsung device and are upset because Sprint offered you a $75 fee to replace your device that is still under manufacturer warranty? Not sure how Sprint sucks.
I personally have the plan. I pay the monthly charge. Guess what? I had an issue with my phone. Took it into a Sprint store. They seen I had the plan. They pulled a replacement (refurb) S5 out of the drawer behind him. I left with a working device that day. That is called a convenience sir. Had I not had the plan I would be just as upset as you are but to post a blog about how the company sucks is just over the top. Had I not had the plan guess what? I would have contacted Samsung. Sent my phone in. Then they would call me and say well sir we noticed this that and the other its gonna cost $ xx.xx to fix. If you dont want to pay then we will ship the device back to you as is. Why deal with that? Warranty is a free service and is not there to help you. The protection plan worked well for me. Now truth be told I actually opened the phone up trying to replace a cracked camera because I had dropped the phone. Screen didnt crack tho. But when I opened the phone I accidently ripped the soft key ribbons so after the reassembly my soft keys didnt work. I took it into Sprint and told them my soft keys "stopped" working. Replacement phone same day. Now just think.... If I took it to Samsung they wouldnt have played so nice. Sorry man but Sprint TEP for the win.
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---------- Post added at 01:48 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:45 PM ----------
Moral of that story: Just get the plan next time.
Sent from my SM-G900P using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Although I do agree with you in the circumstance you shared, the OP issues are not his fault nor should he have a protection plan for it in order to get it fixed. If you read through the thread, you would notice that his issue is with the tri-band phone and sprint service..
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youngpro83 said:
Wow this posts made me laugh. So let me get this correctly, you are upset because Sprint is the only carrier who offers service centers in store with techs and so they offer a protection plan that allows you to utilize their services like repairing and replacing factory warranty devices in which you chose not to purchase. You then start having problems with your Samsung device and are upset because Sprint offered you a $75 fee to replace your device that is still under manufacturer warranty? Not sure how Sprint sucks.
I personally have the plan. I pay the monthly charge. Guess what? I had an issue with my phone. Took it into a Sprint store. They seen I had the plan. They pulled a replacement (refurb) S5 out of the drawer behind him. I left with a working device that day. That is called a convenience sir. Had I not had the plan I would be just as upset as you are but to post a blog about how the company sucks is just over the top. Had I not had the plan guess what? I would have contacted Samsung. Sent my phone in. Then they would call me and say well sir we noticed this that and the other its gonna cost $ xx.xx to fix. If you dont want to pay then we will ship the device back to you as is. Why deal with that? Warranty is a free service and is not there to help you. The protection plan worked well for me. Now truth be told I actually opened the phone up trying to replace a cracked camera because I had dropped the phone. Screen didnt crack tho. But when I opened the phone I accidently ripped the soft key ribbons so after the reassembly my soft keys didnt work. I took it into Sprint and told them my soft keys "stopped" working. Replacement phone same day. Now just think.... If I took it to Samsung they wouldnt have played so nice. Sorry man but Sprint TEP for the win.
Sent from my SM-G900P using xda premium
---------- Post added at 01:48 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:45 PM ----------
Moral of that story: Just get the plan next time.
Sent from my SM-G900P using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Umm, his device is broken through no fault of his own, and is still under warranty. His device was purchased through Sprint, I am assuming. It should be replaced under warranty regardless of a protection plan.

Right. It should be replaced. Through the manufacturer (Samsung) not Sprint. If its service related then Sprint needs to fix the service not the phone.
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---------- Post added at 11:05 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:51 AM ----------
Sprint is a cell phone service provider. Samsung manufacturers the phone. You guys keep mentioning warranty and Sprint doesnt even have one they have a return/exchange policy. Sprint offers extra protection as an extra service to convenience the customer. Samsung offers the 1 yr warranty. He claims to have LTE issues and feels it is the phone not connecting to the service. Which means the service is provided so Sprint did their job. Now if the phone doesnt connect to the service correctly then who is to blame? Samsung. So going to Samsung should be the first cause of action UNLESS you have Sprints protection plan that covers Samsungs device they manufacturered. The phone has a 1 yr MANUFACTURERS WARRANTY THROUGH SAMSUNG NOT SPRINT. Sprint has 14 day return for defective devices. Outside 14 days you have purchased a Samsung phone under samsung 1 year warranty and if the Samsung phone has warranty issues then take it to Samsung since they are offering the warrantly. Or pay $11 a month to have Sprint take over SAMSUNGS WARRANTY and replace the defective device that wont connect properly to a Sprints CELL PHONE service which is clearly there. I read the issue thoroughly. People just have the habbit of blaming the wrong people for stuff. Its Samsungs fault if the phone doesnt work after 14 days. He knew the policy when he got his phone. He just didnt think he would have an issue and now he is upset because the 1 company that can easily help him wont because he didnt want to purchase their protection plan. Now he is upset I get it. But he should be upset at Samsung for putting together a poor S5 that wont connect to the cell towers properly. Shame on Samsung!
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---------- Post added at 11:15 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:05 AM ----------
Oh and FYI the $75 that they charge IS NOT TO SEND YOUR PHONE TO SAMSUNG! You can do that for free. The $75 is for you to get a replacement phone. They order you 1 and it comes in 2 business days. Again Sprint DOESNT OFFER ANY 1 YR WARRANTY! Samsung does. So to avoid being out of a phone for a weeks because you have to deal with Samsung, Sprint told him okay you have issues we see that. WE are not the manufacturer but can help you for $75. Your device needs to be replaced and instead of you having to go through the trouble of that Sprint is offering him an out so he doesnt go weeks without a phone. Sometimes they even have the phone there. Im just really confused at all the people wanting to blame Sprint here. Its a warranty issue and Sprint doesnt EVEN HAVE A 1 YR WARRANTY! ON ANY PHONE BUT THEIR OWN SPRINT DEVICES! Smh.
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Sprint Note 4 thread

Looks like we now have official model number, rumors confirmed SM-N910P
www.samsung.com/us/mobile/cell-phones/SM-N910PZKESPR
...anybody get any responses yet from the pre-registration?

I have not yet. I even check the spam box.

lovekeiiy said:
I have not yet. I even check the spam box.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right. I'm hoping, since sprint supposedly is the only carrier that currently has signed up for VR and Note 4, that they do some sort of deal on the two for early adopters.

Can't wait for this. My s3 needs to be retired
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I'm only seeing black and white colors

ohbreeeezy said:
I'm only seeing black and white colors
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You wanted the pink?

fatboypup said:
You wanted the pink?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bronze Gold

evolone said:
Right. I'm hoping, since sprint supposedly is the only carrier that currently has signed up for VR and Note 4, that they do some sort of deal on the two for early adopters.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I suspect we won't see any notifications till October. My guess, the phone will probably release around mid-October and they'll start preorders about two weeks prior to release. The good news is that since Samsung has a page on the variant and a model number, It probably going through the FCC review, if not already, and supports an October release.
As the VR headset, I'm not sold on it. I think it'll be interesting device, but I think it'll be very limited in support. I just can't see it having a large enough install base to make it popular for a lot developers to devote time to develop or modify applications for it. And the $200US price tag seems high for a device that may so limited. It's only usable, as we know thus far, just on the phone. No external power source, so just your phone's battery. No way to use with your PC for those games. In fact, there was an article I read that showed that getting an Octulus for the PC was cheaper than the Note 4 and VR. If they throw it in free, I'll get one. If it was $50 or less, most likely, over $100, not likely.
Plus, I wonder how the VR works. I have issues--lazy eye and colorblindness--so I have no idea if it'll work for me. The new 3D technology does not work at all for me. I have 3D TV and Playstation3, and got the active 3D glasses to check out. The 3D did not work at all. I only saw a lower resolution picture since the 3D tech uses one's cross reference between the two eyes to create the depth perception. I use one eye significant more over the other. There's a reason why I've taken a few baseballs to the throat; yes it hurt. So, on the top of the support, you can understand my skepticism for my own potential experience with it.
I'm actually more curious about the S Gear in regards to the US or Sprint. I think that may be more a more useful device. I would have preferred it to run Android, or Android Wear. I like the hardware it's bringing, and hope it'll bring manufactures to do similar. My other concerns with it, will it work with devices that do not have TouchWiz? What about the glass? Is it crystal like a good watch, or some kind of gorilla glass. Watches tend to get scratched if they're any kind of glass. If they have some kind of bundle where they offer the Gear S on the cheap side, say about $100, I would probably go with something like that.
Ah, it's exciting times for new toy(s).

lovekeiiy said:
As the VR headset, I'm not sold on it. I think it'll be interesting device,...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It'll probably work for you since the device shows both eyes live feed (no shutter/no anaglyph). Also there are a bunch of programs that allow you stream PC games to the phone. They are not samsung supported/designed products but they do work (TriDef3D for example, there are also a bunch of android games that support the splitview 3D) I currently have a note 2 and built a custom "google cardboard" vr headset and it works great but the resolution is not so great. So, at least for me, I am accustomed to this type of headset and enjoy it quite a bit for games like Skyrim. In short, you can do everything with an android phone (any of them) that you can do with the Oculus, as there is software and hardware (DIY for most, but we have Galaxy VR now) that supports it.
Also, all US variants of the Note 4 have passed FCC as of a few days ago.

evolone said:
... Also, all US variants of the Note 4 have passed FCC as of a few days ago.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
that is excellent news. I hadn't heard Verizon and a couple other hadn't going through yet, but ATT and Sprint had.
And if what you say is true about the VR and my vision, that would be excellent. There's nothing like handing over the 3D glasses to my mother and asking, "is this working? Do you see a 3D picture" And her response, "yes, and it's so cool. wow look at the sky.." it should be noted, this has been the case with most 3D stuff such as 3D rides. The old 3D tech with the blue and red paper glasses worked a little bit, but I've never had that in your face image coming out of the screen. The sad part, if it actually works and does so well, I would probably buy just because of that fact.

Im eligible to upgrade now with Sprint but Should i get in on preorder list or wait until black friday to order the phone with deep discount price? decision decision..

SptMogul said:
Im eligible to upgrade now with Sprint but Should i get in on preorder list or wait until black friday to order the phone with deep discount price? decision decision..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Somebody correct me if I'm wrong here, I'm just going on what I've observed in the past. I've never noticed any savings during holiday season/black friday on phones (maybe the lower end / not as popular ones to get more subscriptions) but the newly released high-end phones usually don't get discounts (the year old Note 3 probably will get a liquidation price). I thought that's why manufacturers released phones around this time of the year is because people "have money" or are willing to spend less frugally than other times in the year, meaning full price on the phone. If you're buying the phone without subscription discount (~$800), the full price/non-contract phone might be discounted during the holidays.

SptMogul said:
Im eligible to upgrade now with Sprint but Should i get in on preorder list or wait until black friday to order the phone with deep discount price? decision decision..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you want to wait, why not wait. What's the worst that will happen? You won't get the phone on release day?
evolone said:
Somebody correct me if I'm wrong here, I'm just going on what I've observed in the past. I've never noticed any savings during holiday season/black friday on phones (maybe the lower end / not as popular ones to get more subscriptions) but the newly released high-end phones usually don't get discounts (the year old Note 3 probably will get a liquidation price). I thought that's why manufacturers released phones around this time of the year is because people "have money" or are willing to spend less frugally than other times in the year, meaning full price on the phone. If you're buying the phone without subscription discount (~$800), the full price/non-contract phone might be discounted during the holidays.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A quick search showed that a number of popular phones were discounted during Black Friday the past 2 years.
http://www.nerdwallet.com/blog/shopping/2013/best-black-friday-samsung-galaxy-note-3-deals/
http://dealnews.com/features/black-friday/predictions/smartphones/

If I could have held out on my upgrade. Got the S5 a week after release nowni want the note4 lol maybe I could just sell myS5 and my old S3 and get it

bootloader unlock
I'm a Verizon customer and want to jump ship. Sprint note 4 should have an unlocked bootloader if history repeats itself. Any long time Sprint customers want to fil me in on some pointers? Which plan is the best? Throttling on certain plans? Etc. Etc. I do have Sprint lte in my area soooo I'm very tempted.

droidrev71 said:
I'm a Verizon customer and want to jump ship. Sprint note 4 should have an unlocked bootloader if history repeats itself. Any long time Sprint customers want to fil me in on some pointers? Which plan is the best? Throttling on certain plans? Etc. Etc. I do have Sprint lte in my area soooo I'm very tempted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you're looking for an individual plan then sprint is going to be offering a $60 unlimited everything plan with a note 4 purchase.
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droidrev71 said:
I'm a Verizon customer and want to jump ship. Sprint note 4 should have an unlocked bootloader if history repeats itself. Any long time Sprint customers want to fil me in on some pointers? Which plan is the best? Throttling on certain plans? Etc. Etc. I do have Sprint lte in my area soooo I'm very tempted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you're looking for an individual plan then sprint is going to be offering a $60 unlimited everything plan with a note 4 purchase.
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thearch1tect said:
If you're looking for an individual plan then sprint is going to be offering a $60 unlimited everything plan with a note 4 purchase.
Sent from my SPH-L710 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Isn't that one throttled (optimized)? I think the Framily isn't. On Verizon I can swap my SIM around into any phone with no issues at any time. Can you do that with Sprint too?

droidrev71 said:
Isn't that one throttled (optimized)? I think the Framily isn't. On Verizon I can swap my SIM around into any phone with no issues at any time. Can you do that with Sprint too?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't believe it is throttled. The framily plan doesn't exist anymore. The new family plans are called family share pack and they have a bucket of 20gb that you share so not unlimited.
The quickest way to swap phones on sprint is by logging into your account and entering the imei of the new phone. Takes just a minute or two but not as simple as swapping sims.
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thearch1tect said:
I don't believe it is throttled. The framily plan doesn't exist anymore. The new family plans are called family share pack and they have a bucket of 20gb that you share so not unlimited.
The quickest way to swap phones on sprint is by logging into your account and entering the imei of the new phone. Takes just a minute or two but not as simple as swapping sims.
Sent from my SPH-L710 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just actually read in the fine print that the bandwidth is optimized. There are still Framily plans they just aren't advertised. Thanks for the SIM swap info that helps cause a person at Sprint said I needed to come in the Swype.