Hi all!
**EDIT** It is a US996, not an H996, my mistake!****
Ok I am so confused on what to do and hope I can get some insight here
I ordered an LG V20 unlocked from Amazon.com. I fell in love with the phone but within a couple of days it started to develop vertical lines on a portion of the screen. LG can take it in and fix it but I find it's easier to do a return to Amazon. I ordered another and it arrived before I returned the other one.
However!
This one, under the same listing, is a LOCKED T-Mobile version, model H918.
My previous unlocked one is H996.
Geeez!
So my dilemma. I am in the US and return to Canada for the summers. I am with Freedom Mobile (once Wind Mobile) who now is LTE (band 66). When I received my first V20 from Amazon I called LG to inquire if my model H996 would work with them, and if it had band 66....because everywhere online it said it hadn't. I was informed it did indeed have band 66 now....even if it doesn't say it on their site or anywhere else online!
I know from research that H918 has band 66.....but....
1. This replacement cost me 80 more on Amazon
2. I'd have to get it unlocked
3. I very much dislike all this T-Mobile stuff on it that I will not use
4. Probably the worst thing is the T-Mobile Start up. I loved my normal H996 LG start up. I know silly, but true!
So I guess my questions are....
A. Does anyone know about this band 66 thing? I am going to call LG again to confirm that the H996 will work if I have it fixed.
B. Does the H918 have anything that the H996 doesn't have? I've researched on here and apparently it has an FM radio....and more roms available.
C. If I keep the H918 and decide to root it....are there roms that can change the start up into something else other than T-Mobile?
Thanks in advance
The H918 (and some other models as well) have the Band IV or AWS or 1700/1900 on the 3G/3G+/HSPA/HSPA+ frequency set (this Band IV in the 3G band only affects 3G). T-mobile uses Band IV on it's 3G network as well as the same 3G bands as AT&T, Bell, ROGERS, Telus (and Canada's little three including Koodo, Virgin Mobile, and FIDO) (for a long while, T-mobile only had the Band IV in 3G set which is why T-mobile needed it's own phone (but most of this has been replaced by LTE (4G, 4G LTE).
The Band 66 serves as one of the LTE bands on T-mobile and Freedom Mobile in Canada (western Canada only at this point) while LTE Band IV serves eastern Canada on Freedom.
If you are the type that likes to customize your ROMS, you will want a phone BOOTLOADER unlocked or BOOTLOADER unlockable like the T-mobile LG V20, G5, and other phones.
The problem with T-mobile phones in regards to SIM unlocking (i.e. using a ROGERS or EE or Orange SIM) is that the use a Device Unlock app (this has several requirements that have to be met before the phone can be unlocked. One of which it has to be on the T-mobile network for 40 days before it's even eligible).
See http://www.gsmarena.com/lg_v20-8238.php for the details of the various models but it looks like that:
Both the H918 and US996 (not sure if that is the same as H996) have that particular 3G Band (so both will work on T-mobile and Freedom (that uses BAND IV exclusively for it's 3G).
So far, the H918 (T-mobile) and the H915 (Freedom) band 66 are not accessible (I'm guessing a future software update will fix that).
The Freedom Mobile version is not BOOTLOADER unlockable (I already tried) though if someone has found another way to get root, then you should be able to put on custom roms or delete the things from the stock rom you don't like or use (I usually do the latter).
The H918 does have FM radio (not sure about the H915 or other models; otherwise, should be basically same (except the phone radio which determines the frequencies and networks you can access).
Hope this helps.
crazyut said:
The H918 (and some other models as well) have the Band IV or AWS or 1700/1900 on the 3G/3G+/HSPA/HSPA+ frequency set (this Band IV in the 3G band only affects 3G). T-mobile uses Band IV on it's 3G network as well as the same 3G bands as AT&T, Bell, ROGERS, Telus (and Canada's little three including Koodo, Virgin Mobile, and FIDO) (for a long while, T-mobile only had the Band IV in 3G set which is why T-mobile needed it's own phone (but most of this has been replaced by LTE (4G, 4G LTE).
The Band 66 serves as one of the LTE bands on T-mobile and Freedom Mobile in Canada (western Canada only at this point) while LTE Band IV serves eastern Canada on Freedom.
If you are the type that likes to customize your ROMS, you will want a phone BOOTLOADER unlocked or BOOTLOADER unlockable like the T-mobile LG V20, G5, and other phones.
The problem with T-mobile phones in regards to SIM unlocking (i.e. using a ROGERS or EE or Orange SIM) is that the use a Device Unlock app (this has several requirements that have to be met before the phone can be unlocked. One of which it has to be on the T-mobile network for 40 days before it's even eligible).
See http://www.gsmarena.com/lg_v20-8238.php for the details of the various models but it looks like that:
Both the H918 and US996 (not sure if that is the same as H996) have that particular 3G Band (so both will work on T-mobile and Freedom (that uses BAND IV exclusively for it's 3G).
So far, the H918 (T-mobile) and the H915 (Freedom) band 66 are not accessible (I'm guessing a future software update will fix that).
The Freedom Mobile version is not BOOTLOADER unlockable (I already tried) though if someone has found another way to get root, then you should be able to put on custom roms or delete the things from the stock rom you don't like or use (I usually do the latter).
The H918 does have FM radio (not sure about the H915 or other models; otherwise, should be basically same (except the phone radio which determines the frequencies and networks you can access).
Hope this helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh wow! Thanks so much for the info, I had to read it a couple of times to understand....it's all so confusing!
So basically, I should be sending the T-Mobile one back (H918) and keep/repair the US996....I am in Eastern Canada (Toronto) and don't plan on going west anytime soon, ha ha! I'm fine with keeping it stock too....just as long as it works on Freedom, I'm cool!
Thanks again!!!!
You wouldn't by any chance be interested in a trade would you? Brand new US996 for your H918?
Related
Hi there guys! Now that the phones are finally shipping, can anyone please test the real band compatibility? I want to buy an unlocked G2 and use it here in Italy, but only if I can get at least a fully working 3G connection.
Please fellas, I badly need this info..
Thanks
Neuromansa said:
Hi there guys! Now that the phones are finally shipping, can anyone please test the real band compatibility? I want to buy an unlocked G2 and use it here in Italy, but only if I can get at least a fully working 3G connection.
Please fellas, I badly need this info..
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No such luck chief. The only 3G band on the G2 is AWS. It will only work on carriers like T-Mobile (USA), and Wind (Canada).
The stock Desire Z, however, has HSDPA 900 / 2100 and should work in most non-US countries on 3G, but check your carriers bands first. The downside, Desire Z has 1.5 GB storage, the G2 has 4 GB.
Neuromansa said:
Hi there guys! Now that the phones are finally shipping, can anyone please test the real band compatibility? I want to buy an unlocked G2 and use it here in Italy, but only if I can get at least a fully working 3G connection.
Please fellas, I badly need this info..
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately I think you are going to be disappointed. I posted a buzz about this a while back. You can look at page 3 of the test report in the FCC submission. The nutshell summary is that the device will only support Band IV for 3G, or in other words T-Mo US' UMTS 1700. This is unfortunate since I used my unlocked G1 quite a lot overseas, thanks to its UMTS 900/2100.
You'll probably have to go with a Desire Z if you want this device with European radios.
Can't believe it's for real...I mean, the 2-year-old G1 does that...and what about people working overseas?
That's a MAJOR fault from T-Mobile, and it's totally weird to say the least.
Neuromansa said:
and what about people working overseas?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Perhaps tmo figures that frequent int'l travelers are a small enough percentage of their userbase that omitting the Band I poweramp was worth the cost savings?
Oh, it gets better. I only paid attention to the UMTS bands when I read the report, assuming that any modern smartphone would be a quad-band GSM device. Turns out the G2 is only GSM 850/1900, which means this device is truly unusable in Europe and Asia.
Wait a minute, what GSM bands are used in Asia?
The HTC site says otherwise : http://www.htc.com/us/products/t-mobile-g2#tech-specs
According to T-Mobile and HTC sites specs, the phone is GSM quad band (850, 900, 1800, 1900).
The HTC site says "UMTS: Yes"
Superfrag said:
Wait a minute, what GSM bands are used in Asia?
The HTC site says otherwise : http://www.htc.com/us/products/t-mobile-g2#tech-specs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Europe and Asia are GSM 900/1800, generally. What is interesting is that the HTC page claims the G2 is quadband, but the FCC testing documents don't show any 900/1800 data at all. The phone cannot legally operate in the U.S. in that band unless testing data has been submitted to the FCC. I'm wondering if HTC marketing just c&p from the Desire Z specs and forgot to edit the GSM infos. We'll see soon enough I suppose.
it doesn't make sense why they would release a phone that wasnt quad band. it must be a mistake. it is like power seats on a luxury car. it's just there lol.
So a unlocked G2 could be used on WINDs network here in Canada (because they use the same frequency), can some one confirm this please
PremiumReview said:
So a unlocked G2 could be used on WINDs network here in Canada (because they use the same frequency), can some one confirm this please
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wind uses AWS (UMTS Band IV)... So, yes. But if they do not have HSPA+ enhancements you won't get the famed and promised super speed. The phone should be able to be used on USA (T-Mobile, Cincinnati Bell Wireless), Canada (WIND Mobile, Mobilicity, Videotron)
Based on the G1 test reports...
... the bands listed in the FCC test reports are not at all definitive.
I pulled the FCC exhibits for the G1 and they listed:
GSM 850
GSM 1900
WCDMA Band IV
(plus 802.11 etc)
In other words, no Band I.
However, I've been successfully using my G1 on 3G in both Europe and Asia for over a year now, so it actually has Band I.
I suspect the FCC tests only cover the frequencies that the device is going to be used on *in the US*. Frequencies the device may or may not be capable of using outside the US just aren't relevant.
That being said, the more significant detail is that the T-mobile site lists the G2 as only having Band IV, even though it lists the Vibrant as having Bands I and IV. Looking at other phones, it seems that T-mobile isn't terribly consistent in how they list their frequencies, but that's a (relatively) slim thread to hang onto.
crr127 said:
it doesn't make sense why they would release a phone that wasnt quad band. it must be a mistake. it is like power seats on a luxury car. it's just there lol.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is quad-band -- for GSM -- as all (most?) modern non-CDMA phones (and some of those) are. But the OP question is about 3G.
ravi_n said:
I suspect the FCC tests only cover the frequencies that the device is going to be used on *in the US*. Frequencies the device may or may not be capable of using outside the US just aren't relevant.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good sleuthing. I didn't consider this possibility.
That being said, the more significant detail is that the T-mobile site lists the G2 as only having Band IV, even though it lists the Vibrant as having Bands I and IV. Looking at other phones, it seems that T-mobile isn't terribly consistent in how they list their frequencies, but that's a (relatively) slim thread to hang onto.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wouldn't put it past T-mo to have just messed up the detail.
I suppose the easiest way to determine would be for someone with an unlocked G2 (or even a locked unit) to take it to Europe or Asia and see if the system status shows UMTS signal or not.
Unlocked G2 Australian user
Hey Guys,
I actually received my G2 a few days ago. Yesterday i purchased an unlock code and entered this in to the phone which it advised was accepted.
The device then rebooted, however once the system loaded i noticed my signal bar had an "x" through it.
Browsed to Network Operators and tried selecting to search for networks and also to select automatically. Both of these selections returned an error "error searching for network" or every second try it would say "unable to connect to network".
I tried a factory reset of my phone but still the same issue.
I tried dialing *#*#4636#*#* which opens a testing screen. I noticed on this screen i can see i have a signal of -85 dBm which is similar to on my galaxy s.
Tried playing with the settings on this screen, i had the option to select network band to which i alternated between all options including auto and AUS, AUS2.
I can confirm this is a Vodafone simcard and it works perfectly in other phones.
I tried a Telstra, 3 and a friends Vodafone simacard all of which produced the same error.
I noticed there are several Australian sites selling unlocked Tmobile G2's.
At this point i would like to try flashing the stock rom on again however i am not sure on the button combo to access the recovery screen.
Last thing to note is yes i have spoke with Vodafone, HTC AU and HTC US, none of the techs were able to help me. =(
TheRiceKing said:
I tried dialing *#*#4636#*#* which opens a testing screen. I noticed on this screen i can see i have a signal of -85 dBm which is similar to on my galaxy s.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What was the network type when you saw the -85 dBm signal?
jashsu said:
What was the network type when you saw the -85 dBm signal?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just checked right now and it says,
Signal stregth -91dBm 11 asu
Under Network Type it says unkown CID is also unkown.
Would a G2 work on Softbank (Japanese Carrier) They use the 2100 band IV I believe. I know my T-Mobile Nexus One worked fine on there 3G.
I could care less if the HSPA+ worked just 3G would be fine.
Okawa said:
Would a G2 work on Softbank (Japanese Carrier) They use the 2100 band IV I believe. I know my T-Mobile Nexus One worked fine on there 3G.
I could care less if the HSPA+ worked just 3G would be fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Band IV is commonly referred to as AWS 1700. From the gsmworld entry, it looks like Softbank is running on Band I ("UMTS 2100"). The G1 and Nexus One both had UMTS 900 & UMTS 2100 (the global bands) in addition to T-Mo specific AWS 1700. We're trying to determine if the G2 also has 900&2100 radios, but right now it's not looking very good.
Does any one know if I can use the tmobile G2 with a canadian wireless plan if its unlocked. I have read about all that tri band stuff but its a little above my head.
Thanks!
T-mobile does not have the same 3G/4G bands as Canadian carriers (Bell, Rogers, etc)
You will only get EDGE. If you want 3G/4G go with an unlocked AT&T phone.
and if ive read correctly, you need to go to a carrier that uses gsm (because tmobile phones use gsm)
Umm, not sure what only getting edge means. Does that just mean no data, just voice and texts?
dwang93 said:
Umm, not sure what only getting edge means. Does that just mean no data, just voice and texts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As of 2011 there are three levels of data speed that are used and the order goes like this:
4G
3G
EDGE
The speed decreases as you go from 4G to 3G, and EDGE being the slowest.
You will receive data, just not at blazing fast speeds.
From what I understand, T-Mobile uses AWS, of which three carriers here provide: Mobilicity, Wind Mobile, and Videotron.
It's not worth trying to get what EDGE you can from Rogers/Telus/Bell.
* Ontario biased *
I would recommend to get an unlocked ATT phone
So after some research, the G2 is a quad band gsm phone, which means it should work on any GSM based carrier. From what I've seen that would be mainly rogers and fido correct? Or are there cheaper alternatives?
Also I looked into the AWS but I'm not sure if my g2 is compatible with AWS. It seems as if tmobile uses both. Does that mean my phone is compatible with GSM and AWS? I'm wondering if you could confirm this Ariel?
Also I will be in the montreal area.
Yes. It will work but the G2 doesn't have the same 3G bands as Rogers. That means you'll only get EDGE which, by personal experience, sucks. I'm not sure about Fido, though.
k, what about an aws service like videotron? That should work as well correct?
Hi,
I am looking to buy a factory unlocked G2 and flashing custom rom on it like CM10.2, and use it on T-mobile. Just want to make sure I could get LTE speed, correct?
Currently on Nexus 4 on T-mobile monthly 4g, enjoying LTE 4G speed, so, just want to be sure...
I would suggest you still buy the T-Mobile version, depending on what's important to you. As far as I know, the AT&T version doesn't have 1700mhz AWS band for HSPA+ to fall back onto if you don't have LTE. The two devices (D800 and D801) both have the same LTE bands.
Which version are you considering? I don't know if any of the other versions work on T-Mobile's Band 4 LTE, but when I checked a few weeks back, they didn't. You may be stuck with a T-Mobile version.
-Collin-
CollinFX45 said:
I would suggest you still buy the T-Mobile version, depending on what's important to you. As far as I know, the AT&T version doesn't have 1700mhz AWS band for HSPA+ to fall back onto if you don't have LTE. The two devices (D800 and D801) both have the same LTE bands.
Which version are you considering? I don't know if any of the other versions work on T-Mobile's Band 4 LTE, but when I checked a few weeks back, they didn't. You may be stuck with a T-Mobile version.
-Collin-
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Factory unlocked, e.g. : http://www.amazon.com/LG-G2-32GB-Un...qid=1382743380&sr=8-3&keywords=unlocked+lg+g2
The specs listed on that page for LTE are:
4G Network LTE 850 / 1800
Neither of those are T-Mobile bands in the US. Are you planning to use it in the US, or T-Mobile in another country like the UK? I think the UK uses 1800mhz, but I'm just speculating at this point. Sorry I can't be more help!
-Collin-
Both Newegg and BH Photo will be selling the unlocked US Cellular V20 Model US996. It says it will work on all carriers since the LG site shows the supported bands.
http://www.lg.com/us/cell-phones/lg-US996-Unlocked-v20-titan
So I guess there should be no problem with it working with Verizon, AT&T , Tmobile, and Sprint?
Also holding out hopes that it can be bootloader unlocked and rooted.
It is missing bands for both Sprint and Verizon...and odds are is not whitelisted to work on Sprint.
Skripka said:
It is missing bands for both Sprint and Verizon...and odds are is not whitelisted to work on Sprint.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought VZW used 2,4 and 13 which are listed??
Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk
B&H has a pretty good guide and explanation of this. In either case CDMA carriers are always a pain. May be able to call your carrier and verify. But chances are they'll be lost and confused with such a new model. Or you'll get lucky...
Sent from my SM-T817T using Tapatalk
omegafiler said:
B&H has a pretty good guide and explanation of this. In either case CDMA carriers are always a pain. May be able to call your carrier and verify. But chances are they'll be lost and confused with such a new model. Or you'll get lucky...
Sent from my SM-T817T using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So true. So far with that guide and phone description any phone I ordered did work on VZW from BH including the axon 7. Otherwise, just return it. Keeping crossed.
Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk
Skripka said:
It is missing bands for both Sprint and Verizon...and odds are is not whitelisted to work on Sprint.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you look at the FCC for the Verizon VS995:
https://apps.fcc.gov/oetcf/eas/reports/ViewExhibitReport.cfm?mode=Exhibits&RequestTimeout=500&calledFromFrame=N&application_id=ft0NWPNMdRRxvx6HqFyc8Q%3D%3D&fcc_id=ZNFVS995
Click on RF Exposure Info 1 and open the PDF.
The first page lists these of the V20 models:
VS995, US996, H990T (the VS995 is the Verizon model and the US996 is the Unlocked).
Then look at the supported bands:
GSM/GPRS/EDGE 850 824.20-848.80
GSM/GPRS/EDGE 1900 1850.20-1909.80
UMTS 850 826.40-846.60
UMTS 1750 1712.4 - 1752
UMTS 1900 1852.4 - 1907
Cell. CDMA/EVDO 824.70 - 848.3 (This is Verizon CDMA voice and 3G)
PCS CDMA/EVDO 1851.25 - 1908.75 (This is Verizon CDMA voice and 3G)
LTE Band 12 699.7 - 715.3
LTE Band 17 706.5 - 713.5
LTE Band 13 779.5 - 784.5 (Verizon LTE Band)
LTE Band 5 (Cell) 824.7 - 848.3
LTE Band 66 (AWS) 1710.7 - 1779.3
LTE Band 4 (AWS) 1710.7 - 1754.3 (Verizon LTE Band)
LTE Band 25 (PCS) 1850.7 - 1914.3
LTE Band 2 (PCS) 1850.7 - 1909.3 (Verizon LTE Band)
So to me, this shows both the VS995 (Verizon) and US996 Unlocked has all of the same bands.
But even if a person (on Verizon) decided to go with the US996 and gets it to work just fine on Verizon, there is no grantee that VoLTE or WiFi Calling will be supported (because of the different software/firmware), and it's up in the air as to when firmware updates will be pushed out.
Compared to the ATT H910 frequency spec the US996 is missing UMTS 2100, LTE 29 & LTE 30. Is that going to cause issues should one by the US996 for use on ATT? I have no idea what those frequencies represent.
https://www.frequencycheck.com/compatibility/WloNsJX/lg-us996-v20-lte-a/united-states
Thanks for the link. Looks like it will be alright. Will advise if / when it arrives
othermark said:
https://www.frequencycheck.com/compatibility/WloNsJX/lg-us996-v20-lte-a/united-states
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So the US996 model should work fine with the Verizon bands, but not Fi or Sprint because it is missing a block in the CDMA 800 that Sprint uses. But would work on Fi/Tmobile.
Has anybody officially tried this variant on Verizon yet? I really want to pick up a V20. I'm stuck with Verizon, and I'm not looking forward to their bs locked down bootloader.
sequence2469 said:
Has anybody officially tried this variant on Verizon yet? I really want to pick up a V20. I'm stuck with Verizon, and I'm not looking forward to their bs locked down bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The US996 model isn't out until early-to-mid November, so still about 3 weeks out.
It supports all the Verizon bands for CDMA voice and LTE 2/4/13 for data.
The only questions is if Verizon will have any issues activating it in their system, and if VoLTE and Wi-Fi calling works. No way to really know until once it's release.
At this point, I plan on waiting to see if the US996 fully works on Verizon without any issues, and hope the bootloader can be unlocked and eventually rooted. I have only had phones that can been rooted, so hate to give that up.
US Unlocked bariant LG V20
I pre ordered the US unlocked VG 20 on B and H for $799 shipped. Included free tablet also. Looks like a good deal. I bought the S7 Edge US variant from them a month ago and use on T-Mobile with no problems at all. Suppose to ship around Nov 01.
yeah, but silver is the end of the month after the headphone deal expires. so why do people who want silver get screwed bc LG can't correctly stock the phone?
Sent from my Samsung Galaxy S7 using Tapatalk
drtvadr said:
I pre ordered the US unlocked VG 20 on B and H for $799 shipped. Included free tablet also. Looks like a good deal. I bought the S7 Edge US variant from them a month ago and use on T-Mobile with no problems at all. Suppose to ship around Nov 01.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds like a plan! So it definitely has all the usa T-Mobile LTE bands?
LG V20
galaxys said:
Sounds like a plan! So it definitely has all the usa T-Mobile LTE bands?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well it looks like it does. I bought the North America version of the S7 Edge and I been using it on T-mobile for a while with no problems at all. It even takes the T-Mobile updates. I'm hoping this one does too. B and H says it does, good enough for me. Guess I'll find out when I get it. It shows the bands in the ad, check them out.
Cellular Network
2.5G (EDGE, GSM/GPRS) MHz: 850, 900, 1800, 1900
2G (CDMA/IS-95) MHz: 800, 1900
3.5G (HSPA+, UMTS/WCDMA) MHz: 850, 900, 1900, 2100
3G (CDMA2000, EV-DO) MHz: 800, 1900
4G (LTE) Bands: 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 13, 17, 20, 25
US Cellular now has their V20 listed for preorder for $699.
Their web site does not list model number, but I believe it is the same US996 that BH and Newegg are selling for $799.
Is there anyway to verify this, and if it is the same, be able to order it from US Cellular without being a customer?
https://www.uscellular.com/devices/phones/LG-V20.html?productId=prod7890145&customer-type=nc&skuType=prepaid&transactionType=addLine&filters={%22manufacturer%22:[%22LG%22]}
The LG site has both the US Cellular US996 and US996 Unlocked listed, so it makes me wonder that even thohgh they both have the same model number, the US Cellular ones is not unlocked and the other one is.
http://www.lg.com/us/cell-phones/lg-US996-Titan-v20
http://www.lg.com/us/cell-phones/lg-US996-Unlocked-v20-titan
So do we think the US996 will work with Project-Fi (unofficially)?
preilly44 said:
So do we think the US996 will work with Project-Fi (unofficially)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is missing the Sprint CDMA 850 MHz band.
markwebb said:
So true. So far with that guide and phone description any phone I ordered did work on VZW from BH including the axon 7. Otherwise, just return it. Keeping crossed.
Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
omegafiler said:
B&H has a pretty good guide and explanation of this. In either case CDMA carriers are always a pain. May be able to call your carrier and verify. But chances are they'll be lost and confused with such a new model. Or you'll get lucky...
Sent from my SM-T817T using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LOL. I called Verizon two weeks ago and they were totally lost. The store rep was clueless. When I talked to tech support they said "oh no problem" (even though I don't think they had any clue about the US996). I'm glad to hear that the B&H guide has worked out in the past. I'm worried that they will try to charge a 15% restock fee if I can't get it up on Verizon.
I'm in the UK and about to buy a LG V20 VS995 from Hong Kong off of Ebay. Pretty sure I've checked the available frequencies here especially the 800 & 900MHz bands as these are the ones which travel the furthest and are able to penetrate buildings better than the higher frequencies. I've attached a table of the main UK networks and what bands they use. So can anyone let me know I've got this right before I purchase. Many thanks
Hi
I am in the UK also and currently using O2 with no problems. I have also used an EE SIM again with no problems. The only thing you need to be aware that the VS995 will not pick up the SIM APNs automatically, at least that is what I found, so you will need to find the APN for whichever network you use. There are off-line APN finders you can find via Google. Hope this is of some help.
Sent from my Nokia 7 plus using Tapatalk
Ferg8080 said:
I'm in the UK and about to buy a LG V20 VS995 from Hong Kong off of Ebay. Pretty sure I've checked the available frequencies here especially the 800 & 900MHz bands as these are the ones which travel the furthest and are able to penetrate buildings better than the higher frequencies. I've attached a table of the main UK networks and what bands they use. So can anyone let me know I've got this right before I purchase. Many thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi, the LG V20 VS995 doesn't support ALL the bands used in the UK. It doesn't support one of the LTE bands used by Vodafone - the 2100Mhz band. So if you're on the Vodafone network, you may find that 4G/LTE speeds might be slightly slower.
I got all of this information from frequencycheck.com and it's usually where I get all my information on the bands that smartphones support.
The best option if you want to get a V20 that supports ALL bands in the UK (at this current time), is the LG V20 H990DS (Taiwanese Version).
That is the variant that I own and it supports every single band used in the UK.
The only other variant that supports all bands is the LG V20 H990N (Hong Kong version), but it only has Cat6 capability as opposed to the H990DS's Cat12 capability. Therefore, the maximum speed you'll be able to get is 300Mbp/s on the H990N - whereas on the H990DS you can get up to 600Mbp/s.
I got this information from techwalls.com/lg-v20-model-numbers-differences/
I hope that helped.
rikstar555 said:
Hi, the LG V20 VS995 doesn't support ALL the bands used in the UK. It doesn't support one of the LTE bands used by Vodafone - the 2100Mhz band. So if you're on the Vodafone network, you may find that 4G/LTE speeds might be slightly slower.
I got all of this information from frequencycheck.com and it's usually where I get all my information on the bands that smartphones support.
The best option if you want to get a V20 that supports ALL bands in the UK (at this current time), is the LG V20 H990DS (Taiwanese Version).
That is the variant that I own and it supports every single band used in the UK.
The only other variant that supports all bands is the LG V20 H990N (Hong Kong version), but it only has Cat6 capability as opposed to the H990DS's Cat12 capability. Therefore, the maximum speed you'll be able to get is 300Mbp/s on the H990N - whereas on the H990DS you can get up to 600Mbp/s.
I got this information from techwalls.com/lg-v20-model-numbers-differences/
I hope that helped.
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I'm not really sure that's true according to gsmarena it does support band 4(1700/2100) admittedly that's not the same as 1(2100). I'm sorry but in my ignorance I don't know . Maybe someone who is more enlightened could tell us what the difference is. See here.
Also the bit about the Cat 6, 9, 12 with LTE does not really bother me. For the VS995 it's LTE-A (3CA) Cat12 600/150 Mbps but for the H990N it's LTE-A (2CA) Cat6 300/50 Mbps. Now I ask you is anyone on this planet going to realistically even touch or even dream of a download speed of 300Mbps on a mobile network. I'm not even remotely getting this on my home fibre and we're watching UHD movies!!
Did find this
LTE Band 1: This is one of the paired bands that was defined for the 3G UTRA and 3GPP rel 99.
LTE Band 4: This LTE band was introduced as a new band for the Americas at the World (Administrative) Radio Conference, WRC-2000. This international conference is where international spectrum allocations are agreed. The downlink of band 4 overlaps with the downlink for Band 1. This facilitates roaming.
I guess I'll soon find out, not sure how though
Ferg8080 said:
Did find this
LTE Band 1: This is one of the paired bands that was defined for the 3G UTRA and 3GPP rel 99.
LTE Band 4: This LTE band was introduced as a new band for the Americas at the World (Administrative) Radio Conference, WRC-2000. This international conference is where international spectrum allocations are agreed. The downlink of band 4 overlaps with the downlink for Band 1. This facilitates roaming.
I guess I'll soon find out, not sure how though
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To be on the safe side, I would just go for the H990N or H990DS. You also don't get the horrible, disgusting Verizon watermarks and logos (software and hardware) if you go with either of the H990 variants. But if you're not going to be using Vodafone, it doesn't really matter - because Vodafone is currently the only UK network that uses B1(2100) for 4G/LTE. Have you already ordered the phone?
i have a h990n in the uk all networks with full 4g
Don't buy CDMA phones for use on GSM carriers, or phones not specific to your region! Though nearly all CDMA phones from Sprint and Verizon in the USA support GSM protocols like 2G: GSM, 3G: UMTS/HSDPA/HSPA+, and some LTE bands, they are not always accessible. VS995 doesn't support Vodafone UK's LTE B1. I ran into problems with invalid sims and poor coverage because not all bands were unlocked by Verizon. If you want a V20 save the hassle and buy a GSM unlocked V20: US996, H990, H910 (won't get OTA, so flash H915 KDZ), H915, H918.
More info: https://www.frequencycheck.com/countries/united-kingdom
patato21 said:
Don't buy CDMA phones for use on GSM carriers, or phones not specific to your region! Though nearly all CDMA phones from Sprint and Verizon in the USA support GSM protocols like 2G: GSM, 3G: UMTS/HSDPA/HSPA+, and some LTE bands, they are not always accessible. VS995 doesn't support Vodafone UK's LTE B1. I ran into problems with invalid sims and poor coverage because not all bands were unlocked by Verizon. If you want a V20 save the hassle and buy a GSM unlocked V20: US996, H990, H910 (won't get OTA, so flash H915 KDZ), H915, H918.
More info: https://www.frequencycheck.com/countries/united-kingdom
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Had a look at the above link and have got the following compatibility
GSM: 2G, 2.5G 100% (2/2)
UMTS: 3G, 3.5G, 3.5G (4G speed) 100% (2/2)
LTE: 4G 75% (3/4)
So I'm chuffed especially after reading this concerning the band/frequency I'm missing...
2.6GHz frequency band
The 2.6GHz band is the other frequency which was auctioned by Ofcom and it’s essentially the opposite of the 800MHz band. So it’s not great at travelling over long distances, meaning that masts need to be closer together to deliver reliable coverage and as such it’s not so suited to rural areas.
It’s also not all that adept at penetrating walls so indoor signal on the 2.6GHz band won’t always be perfect.
But on the other hand with 35MHz blocks available it has a high capacity. So it can cope with thousands of simultaneous connections, which in that sense makes it a good fit for cities and other busy areas.
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I ordered the phone and hope to get it in the next couple of weeks and I will post back my experiences. I ended up getting it at a good price too
Stransky said:
Hi
I am in the UK also and currently using O2 with no problems. I have also used an EE SIM again with no problems. The only thing you need to be aware that the VS995 will not pick up the SIM APNs automatically, at least that is what I found, so you will need to find the APN for whichever network you use. There are off-line APN finders you can find via Google. Hope this is of some help.
Sent from my Nokia 7 plus using Tapatalk
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Out of curiousity were you able to update from Nougat to Oreo? I had a quick preliminary look and didn't see any straightforward method via official channels.
Ferg8080 said:
Out of curiousity were you able to update from Nougat to Oreo? I had a quick preliminary look and didn't see any straightforward method via official channels.
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No, very few American V20 users have been able to update to Oreo as the providers have not released Oreo for the phone. To keep ahead with security updates I use a custom Rom on my V20 (Alpha Rom ) but you need to have the Bootloader unlocked and the phone rooted to use it. Hope this offers some clarity.
Sent from my Nokia 7 plus using Tapatalk
Stransky said:
No, very few American V20 users have been able to update to Oreo as the providers have not released Oreo for the phone. To keep ahead with security updates I use a custom Rom on my V20 (Alpha Rom ) but you need to have the Bootloader unlocked and the phone rooted to use it. Hope this offers some clarity.
Sent from my Nokia 7 plus using Tapatalk
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Will probably stick with the stock ROM for a while until I'm settled in with the phone. Has choosing the Alpha rom negatively affected the performance of the camera or sound quality at all?
Some of the reasons for getting this phone is the renowned DAC and the camera esp in manual mode (apparently auto could be disappointing).
Ferg8080 said:
Will probably stick with the stock ROM for a while until I'm settled in with the phone. Has choosing the Alpha rom negatively affected the performance of the camera or sound quality at all?
Some of the reasons for getting this phone is the renowned DAC and the camera esp in manual mode (apparently auto could be disappointing).
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No negative affects. Alpha Rom is actually based on the last stock Rom from Verizon with some modifications.
Sent from my VS995 using Tapatalk
Stransky said:
No negative affects. Alpha Rom is actually based on the last stock Rom from Verizon with some modifications.
Sent from my VS995 using Tapatalk
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Okay thanks for all your help. I'm expecting to get my phone sometime before Christmas
Just looked at the delivery estimate and it was anywhere between Sept 4th and October??th and it was ordered about 10 days ago. I guess it's to be expected coming from Hong Kong.
:good:
Stransky said:
No, very few American V20 users have been able to update to Oreo as the providers have not released Oreo for the phone. To keep ahead with security updates I use a custom Rom on my V20 (Alpha Rom ) but you need to have the Bootloader unlocked and the phone rooted to use it. Hope this offers some clarity.
Sent from my Nokia 7 plus using Tapatalk
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Click to collapse
Well picked up my new V20 VS995 today and before I launch myself head long into customising it I've posted some questions in the main thread here I would really appreciate any help you might be able to give. I was going to post it here but I thought that would be unfair to load you with a barrage of questions.
The whole process seems so much more complicated than with my Note 4 and I there is a lot less handholding esp with the AΩ ROM'S initial post. For a relative novice it seems an absolute minefield.