Hi,
I've been tempted by the Axon 7 for some time now having seen it in Beijing, and was excited to see it demoed in the ZTE Demo truck that went to our local shopping centre, presuming that it would be released imminently. Unfortunately, it hasn't appeared and since the mini version *has* appeared (Car Phone Warehouse), I presume it isn't going to be released at all.
So, I have been wondering what my options are. Is it plausible to buy one when I'm next in China and use it easily in the UK? I'm reasonably literate with phones and flashing/etc, so I could perhaps do that too, if it is an option. Does the Axon 7 in China have all the same hardware features as would be expected in the UK? I'm particularly thinking of things like NFC for Android Pay - NFC isn't used much at all in China, so it would be (almost) sensible for them to leave that off phones sold there, but it is something I would want. I would certainly want the Play Store and such like.
I have used a Chinese phone in the UK and successfully installed the Play Store on it (and it had an Intel CPU so it wasn't completely straight forward). It was also a ZTE phone (Geek v975) as it happens.
Any advice on what to do?
Max.
PS. My main reason for the Axon 7 is the front-facing speakers. However, other than not allowing *both* microsd *and* 2nd SIM, it is pretty much spot-on (note that HTC One X9 has a dedicated microsd slot and great front-facing speakers, but I can't find one that isn't locked to CMCC, and it doesn't seem to be so well thought of on this forum, though I see it does have a forum so I'll ask there too).
Axon 7 is a greate deal of hardware.
Of course you can use Chinese version on UK, but you have to flash Global rom and modem.
I myself own a Chinese version, but I flash US rom, because chinese rom is lack of play store and full of crappy app
Hi David
I did exactly what you are thinking about. I'm typing this reply from a 128gb Chinese zte axon 7. I bought from Ali express. When you but from china the seller will root the phone to enable Google play store. That's fine but it screws up obtaining the OTA updates. I can walk you through how to overcome this and get onto 7.1.1. No root nothing like that. My advice it's easy and you can save a packet getting a great phone.
Currently you can pick up an axon 7 for 270. Job done.
I'm running my 128gb Cuba version as well. I have 2 sims and an sd card running on it. There's a few threads on how to go about it. There's not much that needs doing apart from installing Google on the phone. Everything is simple. Just use the search function and you will get everything you want.
Sent from my ZTE A2017 using Tapatalk
Hello everyone ! I'm considering buying a new phone since mine is almost dead. I saw le pro 3(x720) for less than 200€ that is a great price for snapdragon 821 with band b20 support ( in Europe it is somehow a deal breaker).
So I came up here to ask you guys about then customs ROM support and stability with Microg. I don't use gapps and other fancy google apps. I saw that the camera is OK so I'm ok with that but I saw that there ia some inconsistency with battery life and SOT ? So in your opinion, x720 worth buying or is better to go with other brand with couple of bucks more ?
Look at the custom ROM section of this forum and see if you're satisfied.
I don't know what your use case is, but I think LeEco phones are great... as long as they've got official LeEco ROMs on them. Sellers like Banggood/Gearbest/Geekbuying put shop ROMs on most of the LeEco devices they sell which don't pass SafetyNet. Plus the build quality of phones from these sellers can be quite iffy.
Get a phone from HongKong-Goldway on Aliexpress if you're looking for a new Chinaphone. They do VAT-free shipping to Europe and they're super careful about ROMs. Just beware that, if there's a hardware defect returning the phone will be a pain. Also, always pay with PayPal in case something goes wrong (in this case avoid Aliexpress).
If you want to go with the LeEco Pro 3 and need native SafetyNet passing without Magisk, get the x727 U.S. model. If you don't care for SafetyNet, the x720 is the only Pro3 model with custom ROMs. Avoid the x722. Personally, I'd go with Xiaomi because they've not gone bankrupt like LeEco has. The Xiaomi ROM community is super active. Now even LeEco's main site hosting their official ROMs is down.
Thanks for superfast reply I've been through the android development section and we do have a lot of choice in custom rom ! Sure Xiaomi est sure value but they lack multiple bands over LTE network. In Europe, B20 and B28 (recently) are massively used outside of cities so a phone without b20 will be a handicap. Since, i'll be travelling in Europe, b20 is deal breaker.
I don't use google apps (even maps), or any other apps that needs safetynet so i don't care a lot !
In the meantime, I was also considering 1+5 but it's out of stock :'(
greenpays said:
Thanks for superfast reply I've been through the android development section and we do have a lot of choice in custom rom ! Sure Xiaomi est sure value but they lack multiple bands over LTE network. In Europe, B20 and B28 (recently) are massively used outside of cities so a phone without b20 will be a handicap. Since, i'll be travelling in Europe, b20 is deal breaker.
I don't use google apps (even maps), or any other apps that needs safetynet so i don't care a lot !
In the meantime, I was also considering 1+5 but it's out of stock :'(
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I'd say wait until Black Friday, when many stores will be having sales. Is this going to be a secondary phone or your main phone? I guess the x720 would make for a decent daily driver as long as you get it from a legit source. Don't get the 32GB version since there's no SD card slot (even 32GB is way too little in this day and age). Sadly the x727 doesn't have band 20. Since you don't need SafetyNet, flashing LineageOS on the x720 would be your ideal choice.
Quite a few Xiaomi phones have band 20, like the Note 4X (Snapdragon 625). Do explore all of your options before making a final decision.
sk8223 said:
I'd say wait until Black Friday, when many stores will be having sales. Is this going to be a secondary phone or your main phone? I guess the x720 would make for a decent daily driver as long as you get it from a legit source. Don't get the 32GB version since there's no SD card slot (even 32GB is way too little in this day and age). Sadly the x727 doesn't have band 20. Since you don't need SafetyNet, flashing LineageOS on the x720 would be your ideal choice.
Quite a few Xiaomi phones have band 20, like the Note 4X (Snapdragon 625). Do explore all of your options before making a final decision.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ohh! Never thought about black friday thanks i'm not in a hurry to buy ! Yes it will be going to be mine main phone. I read somewhere that the next Oneplus 5t will be released on the 5th of Novembre so can be worth waiting :fingers-crossed:
Now the price for this axon 7c is 180-190 dollars and for such a price 2k amoled screen, snapdragon 821, audio chip + stereo speakers + good camera + NFC, this offer is even better than LeEco Le pro 3 for profitability, but there are no firmware
Does it make sense to buy and will there be in the future firmware?
Don't bother. Chinese ROM, no updating or mods.
Waste of a good device
Which phone would be a good alternative to the 7s? The Google Pixel 3 has front-facing stereo speakers, too!
It sounds like an OK deal but I would lowball for 150$ if it's on Craigslist or whatever. Just flash A2017U firmware on it, then install a good LOS/AOSP-based ROM. But if you dont live in Asia or have a carrier in that area, then it may not be such a good deal because you will have trouble getting 4G LTE because of the modem/baseband, I believe you will only get 3G. Up to you though.
AnonVendetta said:
It sounds like an OK deal but I would lowball for 150$ if it's on Craigslist or whatever. Just flash A2017U firmware on it, then install a good LOS/AOSP-based ROM. But if you dont live in Asia or have a carrier in that area, then it may not be such a good deal because you will have trouble getting 4G LTE because of the modem/baseband, I believe you will only get 3G. Up to you though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good luck flashing firmware from a phone with a different SoC on it...
Assuming you can get it unlocked, of course.
Then you need to develop your ROM yourself because there's no Treble, and flashing U firmware wouldn't really make it have an 820 (i.e. our treble or custom ROM's won't work)
@Choose an username...: It has different SoC? I thought that all A7 variants had same SoC, but with differing amounts of RAM/storage. Thanks for the clarification.
Definitely a bad deal, you'll be locked to Chinese firmware forever. And probably unable to unlock bootloader, install TWRP, etc. But hey, it's your money.
AnonVendetta said:
@Choose an username...: It has different SoC? I thought that all A7 variants had same SoC, but with differing amounts of RAM/storage. Thanks for the clarification.
Definitely a bad deal, you'll be locked to Chinese firmware forever. And probably unable to unlock bootloader, install TWRP, etc. But hey, it's your money.
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Click to collapse
It has an SD821, not much different but different nonetheless. Different camera setup too. Apparently no extra DAC like the SD820 versions have.
A bit of give and take. If the software was available I would have the 7s as I don't use wired output much although still like having the option to use it, but would gladly sacrifice the extra DAC for better camera, more storage and faster SoC.
Seems like it would be an amazing device if someone managed to unlock it.
Hi guys, so my little brother is wanting the one plus phone. I noticed from AliExpress etc , the oneplus 6T is significantly cheaper as it’s from China. He can only afford this as in the U.K. it’s 100+ more in cost.
It states it’s running global firmware oxygen. I’m asking the seller what LTE bands this runs on to ensure it works with the EE network here in England.
I just wanted to see if anyone here had experiences with buying from China? Let me know if it’s worth it
Polaflex said:
Hi guys, so my little brother is wanting the one plus phone. I noticed from AliExpress etc , the oneplus 6T is significantly cheaper as it’s from China. He can only afford this as in the U.K. it’s 100+ more in cost.
It states it’s running global firmware oxygen. I’m asking the seller what LTE bands this runs on to ensure it works with the EE network here in England.
I just wanted to see if anyone here had experiences with buying from China? Let me know if it’s worth it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It should work properly.
Just to be safe, run the phone through MSM Tool to get rid of any Chinese SW.
If the seller has good feedback from foreign buyers you should be ok. The 1st thing I would do though is unlock the bootloader, install twrp, and flash the latest version of OOS, regardless of what rom they say it has. This should eliminate any issues with shady or corrupt or spyware software.
Option 2 find a used 6t locally, that is what I did.
As stated above I would run this through the msm tool to restore the phone to 100% stock international software. Unless you understand root and have a need for it I would leave the device that way as well.
So, i notice sites like Giztop and Aliexpress sell the Chinese variant of OnePlus 8 Pro for very cheap. Around 800-900 bucks. and they advertise with "global rom" What does this mean? Can they actually flash on a real Global ROM, entirely supported by OnePlus already on the CN versions? What do i lose by getting a CN version over a global version that i can buy in a store in my country for 1100bucks?
I am torn on buying a OnePlus 8 Pro CN version for 850bucks or the Sony Xperia 1 Pro for 1200dollars global from my country. But that is quite the price difference. On the other hand, i'm scared of the supposed massive OP 8 Pro screen issues? are those more prevalent on the CN versions? i see people reporting major loss in max screen brightness, calibration being way off, green tints etc etc? Hoping someone here can give some reassurance. I feel like the safe option is the Sony, but yeah dunno.
If you're buying the device from "abroad" recommend you send flowers first.
"Sorry I'm bored "
Cakkerlakker said:
So, i notice sites like Giztop and Aliexpress sell the Chinese variant of OnePlus 8 Pro for very cheap. Around 800-900 bucks. and they advertise with "global rom" What does this mean? Can they actually flash on a real Global ROM, entirely supported by OnePlus already on the CN versions? What do i lose by getting a CN version over a global version that i can buy in a store in my country for 1100bucks?
I am torn on buying a OnePlus 8 Pro CN version for 850bucks or the Sony Xperia 1 Pro for 1200dollars global from my country. But that is quite the price difference. On the other hand, i'm scared of the supposed massive OP 8 Pro screen issues? are those more prevalent on the CN versions? i see people reporting major loss in max screen brightness, calibration being way off, green tints etc etc? Hoping someone here can give some reassurance. I feel like the safe option is the Sony, but yeah dunno.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nothing wrong..
IN2020 China
IN 2021 INDIA
IN 2023 EU
IN 2025 GLOBAL
These phones are probably the chinese (IN2020) with global rom..
Go for it ..on alli 760€ the 8/128 pro
just do note in2025 even its dual sim only works with single sim
cultofluna said:
Nothing wrong..
IN2020 China
IN 2021 INDIA
IN 2023 EU
IN 2025 GLOBAL
These phones are probably the chinese (IN2020) with global rom..
Go for it ..on alli 760€ the 8/128 pro
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So it doesn't matter if i get the Chinese version or not? It's still the same rom as the 2025 global? There is no difference at all?
Ok let's get this straight..
First and foremost.
No one, in any situation unless you want to our feel like losing all your money, should order anything from the likes of Ali Express.
The clue is in the name.
if you want a Oneplus phone, then order it from the correct channels.
Or get it on contract, or be ready to sit through a total turd storm when you need to return to sender.
The likes of Ali Express shouldn't even be mentioned in XDA im amazed that you've been allowed to name this thread.
Ali Express is one toe dipped into the dark web, recognizable by the amount of bad deals you think you're going to get but don't.
Short answer??
Avoid Ali, period.
Pay for the phone you want and stop spreading misinformation, unless you're in China and in a OnePlus sellers shop..
Modem is probably the key factor. The band support is what you'll need.
I, too, have wondered also. iN2020 supports n41 5g but not sure if that's the same 41 that Tmo uses. If so, that would be great
dladz said:
Ok let's get this straight..
First and foremost.
No one, in any situation unless you want to our feel like losing all your money, should order anything from the likes of Ali Express.
The clue is in the name.
Don't be a complete idiot, if you want a Oneplus phone, then order it from the correct channels.
Or get it on contract, or be ready to sit through a total turd storm when you need to return to sender.
The likes of Ali Express shouldn't even be mentioned in XDA im amazed that you've been allowed to name this thread.
Ali Express is one toe dipped into the dark web, recognizable by the amount of bad deals you think you're going to get but don't.
Short answer??
Avoid Ali, period.
Pay for the phone you want and stop spreading misinformation, unless you're in China and in a OnePlus sellers shop..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mate, what are you talking about. Nothing about this post was even remotely true. AliExpress is pretty reputable. It's basically the Chinese Amazon. This isn't the wild west days of 2010 with Chinese e-commerce.
I order stuff off AliExpress all the time. 99% of time something arrives as advertised. When it doesn't - I just open a claim and I get my money back. Items take longer these days to arrive due to ePacket and covid-19 - but I always get what I ordered.
I think you might be thinking of Alibaba, which also in turn has dramatically improved in the last few years.
Burt Squirtz said:
Mate, what are you talking about. Nothing about this post was even remotely true. AliExpress is pretty reputable. It's basically the Chinese Amazon. This isn't the wild west days of 2010 with Chinese e-commerce.
I order stuff off AliExpress all the time. 99% of time something arrives as advertised. When it doesn't - I just open a claim and I get my money back. Items take longer these days to arrive due to ePacket and covid-19 - but I always get what I ordered.
I think you might be thinking of Alibaba, which also in turn has dramatically improved in the last few years.
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Click to collapse
Totally agree..
Bought 3 devices from alli( op5, xiaomi mi 6, mi9lite)
2 pairs of buds , mi box..etc...
Never had a problem , very fast shipping....
---------- Post added at 05:03 AM ---------- Previous post was at 04:50 AM ----------
Cakkerlakker said:
So it doesn't matter if i get the Chinese version or not? It's still the same rom as the 2025 global? There is no difference at all?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its the Chinese model (IN2020) with global ROM (IN11AA)
The same ROM as the IN2025 model
I will also order one next month..
You could also try Wonda Mobile, they are based in Hong Kong. They have a complete section of faq on the actual device, the only main difference would be the bands like 5g. They also have a section which lists them so have a look at that to make sure your network supports it.
I bought a OnePlus 8 Pro from Giztop and it's the Chinese version with Oxygen OS on it. I immediately regret it and now I can't return it. If you're in the US, don't do it.
JodyBreeze901 said:
I bought a OnePlus 8 Pro from Giztop and it's the Chinese version with Oxygen OS on it. I immediately regret it and now I can't return it. If you're in the US, don't do it.
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Click to collapse
No option to return if you change your mind even paying a restocking fee?
JodyBreeze901 said:
I bought a OnePlus 8 Pro from Giztop and it's the Chinese version with Oxygen OS on it. I immediately regret it and now I can't return it. If you're in the US, don't do it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why regret it?
surge27 said:
Modem is probably the key factor. The band support is what you'll need.
I, too, have wondered also. iN2020 supports n41 5g but not sure if that's the same 41 that Tmo uses. If so, that would be great
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was looking at it when you couldn't get one in the US. The bands (n71 and n41) were the issue.
So far, have not seen any post from anyone in US TMO that has one that works on LTE and 5G over here.
gaww said:
I was looking at it when you couldn't get one in the US. The bands (n71 and n41) were the issue.
So far, have not seen any post from anyone in US TMO that has one that works on LTE and 5G over here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ya, 41 is on iN2020 but not sure if it's actually the same 41 here in U.S.
surge27 said:
Ya, 41 is on iN2020 but not sure if it's actually the same 41 here in U.S.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah - that's an issue, but 6000 mhz n71 is also big , as it both supports LTE and 5G. I didn't see that at all.
wilpang said:
No option to return if you change your mind even paying a restocking fee?
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Click to collapse
I can't afford to be without a phone for a month maybe more. My job requires me to have a cell phone and my note 5 backup finally died on me. So I'm stuck with this phone unfortunately
JodyBreeze901 said:
I can't afford to be without a phone for a month maybe more. My job requires me to have a cell phone and my note 5 backup finally died on me. So I'm stuck with this phone unfortunately
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But again, what's wrong with it?..
cultofluna said:
But again, what's wrong with it?..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, for one I'm missing a few bands compared to the IN2023 version. That's the most important thing to me. Two, I honestly feel like the 5g is not as strong due to me missing those bands.
Hey, just to give my 2 cents about ordering this phone from China....
Just did it and went for the 12/256 Ultramarine Oneplus 8 Pro at the end of April for about $930 USD, shipping included, on AliExpress.
Took a LONG time to arrive to me (6 weeks!) BUT... Phone is perfect, no defect, screen is gorgeous and nothing wrong with it, even though it is probably a "first batch" unit. Got a Chinese IN2020 unit flashed by seller with Global ROM (came with 10.5.3 or 10.5.4 ROM out of the box), had a pre-applied (plastic) screen protector that will allow me to wait a few more days/weeks to get my UV 3D glass screen protectors for a better protection and better light transmittance. Unit looked new, with all the packaging (even though it was flashed to Global ROM by seller, but still, they managed to make it look like it has never even been turned on, as the phone box itself was still fully wrapped/sealed with plastic).
Once turned on, immediately updated to 10.5.8 Global without any problem, unlocked bootloader, booted to latest TWRP, Rooted of course and applied my usual Magisk modules, as well as flashed a custom kernel (Omega, to be precise). Tweaked my unit to my desire, installed a Gcam to have more options regarding photography, and... well ,that's all, mate!
Nothing much to say, except I'm delighted by my purchase and by this phone for now! Coming from a Oneplus 5T with custom Android Q ROM, it is a BIG step ahead and definitely impressive piece of hardware. However, in terms of speed, can't say the difference is huge (sure, OP8 Pro is faster, but not by a 100X, not even a 2X factor when you use it normally).
If you have an opportunity to buy the Chinese version at a good price from AE or any other reseller, offering some warranty in case something goes wrong during transportation or with the unit itself of course, and if you are not able to get it from your local store (it was and still is not easily available in my country at a decent price right now), then go on and do it! Just remember, unless you go for DHL or other fast shipping carrier, you'll have to be patient.
Cheers!