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Every thing i'm reading says you can make phone calls from the galaxy tab plus in receiver mode. is that strictly for the 3G versions? Because on my wifi version I don't have that option.
Sorry but off course you cannot do that with WiFi version...only 3G works as a phone.
aeon101 said:
Sorry but off course you cannot do that with WiFi version...only 3G works as a phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's only half-correct. You can't make phone calls without a wifi connection in the wifi-only version, and it is missing a traditional dialer, but there are plenty of apps, such as Skype, Vonage, and GrooVe IP which will allow you to make calls in receiver mode even on the wifi-only version.
Does anyone know if the 3G/4G GT 7.0 Plus can be flashed to enable voice calls, like the original Galaxy Tab? Thanks to the great devs here on XDA I was able to flash my original tab & was hoping to do the same if/when an AT&T model is released. Other web sites (samsung, gsm arena) show pics of the GT 7 Plus & the GT 2 with the dialer app. I'm sure these are the European versions, as was the case with the original Galaxy Tab.
....if not, I may have to settle for a Galaxy Note.
rkmj said:
That's only half-correct. You can't make phone calls without a wifi connection in the wifi-only version, and it is missing a traditional dialer, but there are plenty of apps, such as Skype, Vonage, and GrooVe IP which will allow you to make calls in receiver mode even on the wifi-only version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I understood we were talking about phone function with dialer application, which wifi version is unable to offer. And off course there are plenty devices which are able to make calls through VOIP, Skype etc...but not through GSM if there is only wifi version. This is general for tablets and computers.
Does this the t869 version have the "Voice Receiver" mode?
Talked about on the Samsung site or just speakerphone?
samsung.com/global/microsite/galaxytab/7.0/feature.html
No it does not. Tmobile variant is missing some hardware = crippled.
Sorry guys so does the 3g model work as a fully functional phone on T-Mobile?
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using XDA App
Or does any version run on T-Mobile US 3g that can be used as a fully functional phone?
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using XDA App
claud_face said:
Or does any version run on T-Mobile US 3g that can be used as a fully functional phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is the million dollar question that I am trying to get answered too. I have the original Samsung Galaxy Tab and make phone calls all day long with it. Of course I am using a SIM that originally worked on a Samsung Galaxy S so I don't have just data on my plan.
If you are like me, you are absolutely frustrated that you can either have Phone+2G or swap modems and boot into pure 3G mode without phone calling ability. So, I have a couple people confirming that the Huawei Springboard can make phone calls and I believe also utilize 3G/4G on the TMobile USA network (unconfirmed on the 3G/4G portion). I want to stick to having a 7" device that makes phone calls as my phone but I want my 3G/4G ability that I am paying for.
So, here are the tablets that are out and if they work with TMobile USA network:
Huawei Springboard Phone=Yes, 3G/4G=?
Samsung Galaxy Tab Plus Phone=?
Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.7 Phone=Yes according to one website
Samsung Galaxy Note Phone=No, not unless new radio is put in unit.
Dell Streak 7" - Not sure
Thoughts? Errors that you see on my info above?
From what I understand the Springboard is also missing the hardware to do voice calls without Bluetooth, speakerphone etc.
Is it possible to purchase the int'l unlocked version of the Galaxy Tab 7+ that has the voice receiver hardware and flash the modem, etc from the T-Mobile version so that tmo 3G/4G?
Or is that a hardware incompatibility with the int'l version?
Juanpv, I believe you are right about the Springboard not having the hardware/microphone to handle phone calls without bluetooth or headset.
I believe the international version of the Tab Plus doesn't do the 1700 bandwidth which the TMobile USA network needs.
I'm so frustrated right now. Does anyone know of a 7" device that works on the TMO USA network and allows phone, 3G/4G without having to reboot?
I've been using the T-Mobile galaxy plus as my primary phone for about a month now. I etf'ed(if that's not a real word,it should become one) my original number to transfer it over it Google voice,only cuz i picked up a galaxy ii as well. I downloaded the groove IP app and that was pretty much that. Now granted,its not ideal,on wifi u get a small delay,and because I live in a market without 4g...its almost impossible to use it as it cuts out either when I'm talking...or the other person on a line. My tablet has two numbers attached to it also...the Google voice one and the T-Mobile data plan. Granted...I use really only about thirty minute a month for voice...its been pretty ideal for me. It was also very easy to attach a blue tooth headset to it. Also,I don't think it allows u to call 911...but with two other cell phones in the house,I hope it wouldn't b a problem. So I've been pretty happy with this setup..playing games is great, I've been reading way more then before and I have yet to find pants that I own that it doesn't fit in....watching Netflix or other movies is great,especially on the treadmill ...and that'd really when it becomes awkward...is listening to music at the gym...but its cool to use apps like jetfit pro to keep track of your sets. Is it ideal...no...but more then functional. Let me know if anyone has any questions.
Ps. While the camera takes decent pictures...its def a drop off from the quality of the s ii I got use to before I gave it to a family member.
Sent from my SGH-T869 using XDA App
reymunoz said:
My tablet has two numbers attached to it also...the Google voice one and the T-Mobile data plan.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for sharing in what way you are using the TMO Galaxy Tab Plus. Have you tried or found any hacks to get one of the sim cards, from another phone, to utilize the phone features of the tablet?
I see on the Samsung website that it has phone calling capabilities but I also read somewhere/someone believes TMO had Samsung remove the physical hardware to support standard phone calls. I personally believe that is erroneous information as they thought the same with the original Samsung Tab.
I am just using another "data" sim card from T-Mobile...so I have two numbers attached to my tablet ...sorry...I did scour the interweb to find a trick to just use my original one...but no dice :-(
Sent from my SGH-T869 using XDA App
From what I have gathered, and excuse me if this has already been said (It doesn't look like it above)...
Galaxy Tab 7 Plus (USA Version) won't allow 3G/GSM Calling. No one has hacked it like you can on the original tab. I actually bought the Galaxy 7 Tab Plus in hopes I can, and sadly found out after hours of reading that I can' t
Now, the Galaxy Tab 7 Plus (International Version) does allow you to! It will run you around $700 for it (I was able to find one for $460 in Australia, but shipping is expensive).
The reason the USA version can't, is the same reason why no tablet in the USA can make calls the carrier (I believe) blocks it. I don't know exactly why they do, perhaps data usage or something... there is only 1 or 2 tablets out there that support gsm calling, I don't recall what they are though, but nothing fancy like a Galaxy Tab 7 Plus.
I'm all about GSM Calling and anti-VOIP calling, but as I do more research I might migrate to VOIP phones, mostly because there is no limitation on what device you use...And I'm leaning towards the Sony Tablet P (Fold/Clamshell design)... I know, 99% of people out there hate that device, but I love the idea. Comes out in a week, so I'm pretty excited
Hi NineT9, having used cell phones in a dozen countries while living there, I can assure you that in US, cell because just sodomize you and take fortune out of your pocket for that matter.
================================================
Is there a difference on hardware level between this one
http://www.samsung.com/uk/consumer/mobile-devices/tablets/tablets/GT-P6800LSAXEU
And the
http://www.samsung.com/us/mobile/galaxy-tab/SGH-T869MABTMB
http://mobile-broadband.t-mobile.com/tablets/galaxy-tab/plus
I would love the phone feature the EU version has!
Is that possible on T869? Like installing a rooted EU rom on T869
So that I can retire my G2 on eBay
Hey I am getting plus on Friday I will use my G2 sim in it and post you guys how the VOIP stuff goes
Last edited by jijus; 29th February 2012 at 10:53 AM. Reason: plus
I was under the impression that I could use my G2 sim which has unlimited data on this Tab, but that not the case!
TMO wants me to sign up for another data plan, so said KMB and send the damn thing back. As I could only load T-Mobile website on it using my sim card.
Now I am ordering EU tab thru my friend who lives in London. I will post updates after getting it
NineT9 said:
I'm all about GSM Calling and anti-VOIP calling, but as I do more research I might migrate to VOIP phones, mostly because there is no limitation on what device you use...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See, I feel differently about utilizing VOIP or relying on it. I personally have been using VOIP on older Windows Mobile devices, Nokia N800 and my Samsung Galaxy Tab when in 3G mode. But, I can tell you it's like having cell phone access about 1/10th of the time that you would have Cellular phone ability. Maybe it's even less but I don't want to be too critical. The amount of dropped calls, weird echoes, inability to even call, etc. is just too frustrating to rely on for a day to day phone. Plus, you'll upset everyone that you are talking too because they suffer through the same problems as you do. It's been a great way to alienate my friends.
I think I'm going to have to just give up and go back to a dumb 4"+ phone just so I have a dual core, Cellular, 2G/3G/4G capability all at the same time SINGLE device.
Damn the US phone companies! Every last one of them. At least with T-Mobile's business plan I get 1000 minutes, unlimited data (5GB), unlimited text for $39.99 a month. If I wanted unlimited everything then it's just $10 more at $49.99 as of Feb 2012.
Munk0 said:
See, I feel differently about utilizing VOIP or relying on it. I personally have been using VOIP on older Windows Mobile devices, Nokia N800 and my Samsung Galaxy Tab when in 3G mode. But, I can tell you it's like having cell phone access about 1/10th of the time that you would have Cellular phone ability. Maybe it's even less but I don't want to be too critical. The amount of dropped calls, weird echoes, inability to even call, etc. is just too frustrating to rely on for a day to day phone. Plus, you'll upset everyone that you are talking too because they suffer through the same problems as you do. It's been a great way to alienate my friends.
I think I'm going to have to just give up and go back to a dumb 4"+ phone just so I have a dual core, Cellular, 2G/3G/4G capability all at the same time SINGLE device.
Damn the US phone companies! Every last one of them. At least with T-Mobile's business plan I get 1000 minutes, unlimited data (5GB), unlimited text for $39.99 a month. If I wanted unlimited everything then it's just $10 more at $49.99 as of Feb 2012.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow, thanks for that post I've been asking numerous people and read a few threads/articles online about VOIP, and what you said is exactly what I was afraid of, and I've been told it won't happen if you have a connection... but I thought, well what if I'm driving? That means the speed will only decrease drastically, and like most people I talk while driving a lot...
I was afraid of the dropped calls, echos, upsetting the other end, etc etc... looks like that will happen still
Sadly, I think I will also have to go back to a dumb 4" phone too :\ I really want to use the new Galaxy Tab 7 Plus as a phone, shame it's not possible like the original :\
NineT9 said:
From what I have gathered, and excuse me if this has already been said (It doesn't look like it above)...
Galaxy Tab 7 Plus (USA Version) won't allow 3G/GSM Calling. No one has hacked it like you can on the original tab. I actually bought the Galaxy 7 Tab Plus in hopes I can, and sadly found out after hours of reading that I can' t
Now, the Galaxy Tab 7 Plus (International Version) does allow you to! It will run you around $700 for it (I was able to find one for $460 in Australia, but shipping is expensive).
The reason the USA version can't, is the same reason why no tablet in the USA can make calls the carrier (I believe) blocks it. I don't know exactly why they do, perhaps data usage or something... there is only 1 or 2 tablets out there that support gsm calling, I don't recall what they are though, but nothing fancy like a Galaxy Tab 7 Plus.
I'm all about GSM Calling and anti-VOIP calling, but as I do more research I might migrate to VOIP phones, mostly because there is no limitation on what device you use...And I'm leaning towards the Sony Tablet P (Fold/Clamshell design)... I know, 99% of people out there hate that device, but I love the idea. Comes out in a week, so I'm pretty excited
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am using the Galaxy Tab t mobile SGH t849 7 ich that allows me to use GSM 2g voice + data and 3g data only using modem switcher.
For those of us who will be using T-Mobile as our carrier and are considering buying an international variant of the Z3 instead of the T-Mobile variant, what are all of the pros/cons? There's only a few that I can think of, and some important ones that we need someone to confirm if possible.
Pros:
Unlocked bootloader
Color options other than black
Cons:
No international variant with LTE Band 12 support
No VoLTE support?
No WiFi Calling support (Android 4.4.4 or Android 5.0)?
Can't use Jump! (ie. no insurance)
Although perhaps negligible, less battery life (from having more frequency support)?
16GB Internal Storage
Pretty much summed it up. The battery life difference should be negligible. T-Mobile version does have 32GB internal storage as well.
se1000 said:
Pretty much summed it up. The battery life difference should be negligible. T-Mobile version does have 32GB internal storage as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is only one thing I cannot find any clarification on, and that's whether or not the T-Mobile version as Band 12 support. T-Mobile's site says no - Sony's site says yes. Do we know which to believe?
-Collin-
CollinFX45 said:
There is only one thing I cannot find any clarification on, and that's whether or not the T-Mobile version as Band 12 support. T-Mobile's site says no - Sony's site says yes. Do we know which to believe?
-Collin-
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would say that the T-Mobile version definitely has Band 12, but that it isn't active yet and will be turned on when the network is ready.
CollinFX45 said:
There is only one thing I cannot find any clarification on, and that's whether or not the T-Mobile version as Band 12 support. T-Mobile's site says no - Sony's site says yes. Do we know which to believe?
-Collin-
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's no debate on this. The T-Mobile version (D6616) has LTE Band 12. T-Mobile may simply not be listing it because they don't want to advertise a network that isn't up yet.
se1000 said:
Pretty much summed it up. The battery life difference should be negligible. T-Mobile version does have 32GB internal storage as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Forgot about the storage difference. I've added that now.
s1dest3pnate said:
There's no debate on this. The T-Mobile version (D6616) has LTE Band 12. T-Mobile may simply not be listing it because they don't want to advertise a network that isn't up yet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, glad to hear it.
After the Moto X "Pure Edition" I purchased as supposedly having Band 12 and finding out it didn't, I'm overly cautious I guess! Then again, I live in the Bay Area and I think T-mo has a lot of work to do to clear up the Band 12 licenses here unfortunately.
-Collin-
One think to mention of the international version is that it isn't carrier locked and that it is free from T-Mobile's bloatware. I also like a device without carrier's logo on it. Copper and White Z3s looks awesome. Happened the same with my first Xperia Z1, it was international version purple color when all other T-Mo customers has black Z1s.
se1000 said:
I would say that the T-Mobile version definitely has Band 12, but that it isn't active yet and will be turned on when the network is ready.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is something else that is unclear to me: • VoLTE support! I did see the T-Mobile's version having an option in settings>call settings: Enable VoLTE if available (check mark). So international version won't have this?
I don't know if the D6603 has the VoLTE menu ootion, however on a hardware level I believe it does.
abhinav.tella said:
I don't know if the D6603 has the VoLTE menu ootion, however on a hardware level I believe it does.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. I was ready to buy an unlocked version, but I saw this thread, so I searched online yesterday for a good 30+ minutes, even Z3's white pages, specs, but nothing that would mention VoLTE. The interesting thing that I found is that Xperia Z3 Compact, does mention VoLTE support. I also emailed few people on youtube that had made videos about Z3, waiting on their reply.
Anyone able to confirm if T-Mobile VoLTE works on the D6603 model? Screenshot showing the HD icon?
I can confirm it does have volte. Now if we could just get root Haha!! __
Sent from my D6616 using XDA Free mobile app
s1dest3pnate said:
Anyone able to confirm if T-Mobile VoLTE works on the D6603 model? Screenshot showing the HD icon?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had a D6603 using it on tmobile for a good week. No Volte and no Wifi calling. Thats confirmed.
This white paper PDF from the Sony Developer World website contains charts showing the differences between all the Z3 models. It also shows LTE band 12 support in model D6616.
http://dl-developer.sonymobile.com/...ria_Z3_D6603_D6633_D6643_D6653_D6616_WP_1.pdf
Load TMobile software on a D6603 Z3??
Hey everyone. I own a international Sony Xperia Z3 model D6603 and was wondering if it was possible to load US TMobile D6616 software on it in order to enable WiFi calling/texting??
Thanks for everyone's help!
I would imagine so. Just use FlashTool and XperiFirm, but be ready to roll back with the proper files in case something goes wrong. So I'm not 100% sure, but I'd imagine you can if the hardware is similar enough. Do at your own risk, though - perhaps someone who knows more than me about this could chime in.
i just put my t mobile sim in a D6603 and can make calls, but i can't get 4g, 3g or even 2g...
what's going on? bad unit?
Sent from my XT1053 using XDA Free mobile app
gcbxda said:
i just put my t mobile sim in a D6603 and can make calls, but i can't get 4g, 3g or even 2g...
what's going on? bad unit?
Sent from my XT1053 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You likely need to add your APN. Should be plenty of info on how to do that online.
gcbxda said:
i just put my t mobile sim in a D6603 and can make calls, but i can't get 4g, 3g or even 2g...
what's going on? bad unit?
Sent from my XT1053 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did it work eventually???
Hello everyone..
I had a Galaxy S3 with Sprint and was happy I was able to browse and talk at the same time but can't anymore because of this Sprint Spark network. I've read hand full of messages about this issue and ppl are still pissed about it. I wished Sprint would have installed 2 antennas into my recently upgraded Galaxy S5 (and other Spark phones) while they are still working out the kinks. I use data and talk all the time, especially if I'm using the GPS. And definitely because I have a side gig where I drive and use GPS and talk on the phone for dropoffs/pickups.
My question is, has anyone figured out a work around to this issue to be able to talk and use data? And I'm not talking about using WiFi.
I was thinking if there's a hack where we can physically replace the antennae with the older LTE antenna,?
If the current Spark is triband, does that mean it should still be compatible with the older LTE versions? Is there a way to disable Spark, and use the other band so we can talk and browse?
Rooting apps?
I have 1 week left before deciding to stay with Sprint, or simply just use an older phone--i suppose the Galaxy S4. Or Tmobile would be the next better affordable carrier, but too bad they don't take corporate discounts anymore.
I hope when VoLTE rolls out, it is compatble with the GS5 and I won't need to get another device and its software related on my end. I read rumours it should have been mid-2015, but now I read some other msgs late 2015, nothing official.
Any thoughts? Thanks.
I know this is not officially supported, but does anyone know if this will work with a Verizon SIM? I know in the past, CDMA radios were required for Calls and Texts, but with VoLTE, shouldn't CDMA be unnecessary at this point? Can someone try throwing a Verizon SIM in it and see if it will work. I'm trying to find a Note 7 replacement here. The rest of the Verizon phones SUCK.
I'm really wondering about this too. I'd jump from my S7 Edge to this if it could really work. lol
Oh yeah, if any of you Xperia XZ owners could be so helpful in using this tool from the Verizon website: https://www.verizonwireless.com/bring-your-own-device/. I think this would help see if we could use the XZ on Verizon network. If any of you guys do it, can you post screenshots (blacking out any private info if you may), I'd really appreciate it!
Verizon uses CDMA which Xperia phones so not support. They only do GSM. I suspect a Verizon sim card would not find coverage in an XZ.
Yakkosmurf said:
Verizon uses CDMA which Xperia phones so not support. They only do GSM. I suspect a Verizon sim card would not find coverage in an XZ.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But there is LTE support. If you have an XZ in your possession, can you try using the tool in the link I provided to see if it works?
To be able to use VoLTE, you will need to enable HD Voice or Advanced HD feature for your line and also the person you call has to have to same feature enabled. Both callers need to be in LTE coverage areas for VoLTE works.
So it isn't always working for you if you don't have CDMA capable phones.
Sent from my SGP771 using Tapatalk
All voice calls still go through the CDMA network UNLESS, you are on Verizon and have HD voice enabled on your phone. I
know, Verizon is still using 800 CDMA in almost every cell site. This this is so VZ customers can call other carriers..
This became very apparent a few months ago when Verizon had a CDMA network outage on the west coast and we could only call people with in Verizon that had HD Voice, no one else.
If the XZ does not support CDMA (can someone confirm?) that would mean NO "Cell Network " phone calls. Data should work fine if the XZ supports LTE 700 c, 1700 f, 1900
Kinda getting tired of this, I really wanted an S7 Active and now the XZ.
One of these days I am going to jump ship. I. just have a bit of "data coverage anxiety" is the only thing holding me back...
The reason Verizon keeps their CDMA network because they still have 3g devices which are CDMA only.
Sent from my SGP771 using Tapatalk
ngvuanh01 said:
The reason Verizon keeps their CDMA network because they still have 3g devices which are CDMA only.
Sent from my SGP771 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes but, not necessarily the reason why VZ is keeping CDMA.
3G (1900Mhz CDMA) will begin to get faced out sometime next year. This is not a secret, it's actually common knowledge. In fact, some areas already don't have 3G coverage.
(800Mhz CDMA) Voice will stay at least for 2017. This is because VZ's VoLTE aka VoIP is not quite ready to go.
Some guy already tried using a VZ SIM on a Xperia XZ, didn't work.
Search YouTube for: "Sony Xperia XZ Verizon CDMA Test"
CDMA faced out all over the world last year except VZW. Some areas do not have 3g coverage doesn't mean there is no CDMA network there. There is a lot of VZW basic (CDMA) devices in the market now.
Sent from my D6616 using Tapatalk
https://youtu.be/8RZxQDqunkM
ducksonetime said:
https://youtu.be/8RZxQDqunkM
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For this guy, it could be the first time he tried unlocked phone.
At least he need to add APN settings for Verizon network first. It's not gonna work what so ever since unlocked phones do NOT have it.
Sent from my D6616 using Tapatalk
ngvuanh01 said:
For this guy, it could be the first time he tried unlocked phone.
At least he need to add APN settings for Verizon network first. It's not gonna work what so ever since unlocked phones do NOT have it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you're not connecting to a tower, I don't think APN settings are going to help you.
ducksonetime said:
If you're not connecting to a tower, I don't think APN settings are going to help you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Of course you don't however, didn't that phone connect to the network briefly at start up, did it? Also it's only video so it can't prove xz doesn't work with VZW. It's my opinion even though I'm not with VZW.
Sent from my D6616 using Tapatalk
ngvuanh01 said:
Of course you don't however, didn't that phone connect to the network briefly at start up, did it? Also it's only video so it can't prove xz doesn't work with VZW. It's my opinion even though I'm not with VZW.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just to be clear; that's not my video. I'm no expert either but I really don't think APN settings would cause the tower to drop connection. AFAIK APN settings are just for data and MMS services.
I understand it's not your video and you knew APN is for data and mms. However, you forgot that in mean time, most VZW devices use CDMA for voice until they introduced HD voice (VoLTE) to have both voice and data work at the same time.
So without correct APN settings, nothing is gonna work including voice for non-cdma devices.
Sent from my D6616 using Tapatalk
Better late than never...
But yes. I am up and running on LTE+ right now. I would post a screen shot... But I don't know how
Can you help me?
MpV35 said:
But yes. I am up and running on LTE+ right now. I would post a screen shot... But I don't know how
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I saw your post also on the verizon regarding the XZ working with it. That's cool man! I bought the XZ based on the LTE network which I was betting that it would work but no good. I currently have a z3v working with HD calls and stuff so that's why I believed that XZ would work.
Thank you in advance!
APN configuration
Hi! I found out this configuration on a Google search claiming that XZ works with verizon.
Just Google for
1587_13_verizon_apn_settings_for_sony_xperia_xz
On "apn gishan net" and you will find out. I will try it as soon as I arrive on my vacation destination (currently driving)... Lol
Not that simple...
valtbn said:
Hi! I found out this configuration on a Google search claiming that XZ works with verizon.
Just Google for
1587_13_verizon_apn_settings_for_sony_xperia_xz
On "apn gishan net" and you will find out. I will try it as soon as I arrive on my vacation destination (currently driving)... Lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I did the setup but I wasn't able to get it work. @MpV35;73223832 can you please share the info that you got on the tier2 verizon help-desk? (I saw your comments on the verizon community)
Thank you one more time
I am starting this thread, since there seems to be a lot of confusion around "newer" LTE bands, like Band 12 on T-Mobile, which apparently require a fully functioning and "approved" VoLTE phone to get reception.
There are various threads in device-specific forums, but they are not getting a lot of attention, and this is a significant enough problem that it should be more visible.
T-Mobile at this point has pretty fantastic coverage via the 700MHz Band 12 LTE network.
The only problem is that Band 12 requires the phone to be VoLTE "certified". The rumor was that phones could still connect to this band/LTE-network and send/receive data, but that they would fall back to alternative bands, even 3G or 2G, for phone calls. For a lot of people that would be "good enough" if not ideal.
Based on some recent testing, this is NOT CORRECT:
While phones may "sometimes" connect to Band 12 for data, the much more common scenario is apparently that the phone will disconnect from Band 12 almost immediately, or will refuse to connect to Band 12, and will instead default to an alternative LTE, 4G, 3G, or 2G connection.
In other words: even if you have perfect LTE Band 12 coverage (5/5 bars, or 100%), your "Band 12 capable" phone may instead try to connect to a really ****ty GPRS or EDGE tower that has barely any reception for the phone.
I recently encountered this with my Xperia X Compact while travelling: My phone would barely be able to connect to a T-Mobile tower with a GPRS data connection, while my wife's Moto G4 would get 5/5 or 100% LTE reception. Swapping SIM cards had the same result, so we know the problem rests with the phone.
Searching for "Available Mobile Networks" on my "band 12 capable" phone would show various T-Mobile 4G networks, but the phone would be unable to connect to them.
Talking to other Xperia X Compact owners, they have the same problem: the phone will sporadically connect to Band 12, but it is not a reliable connection (if the phone even connects) and it will (more likely) prefer other networks/bands/frequencies.
Based on the phone having the proper frequencies, I would assume that T-Mobile has some mechanism on some (or the majority of) towers where they disconnect non-VoLTE certified devices.
Anecdotally, I also had a similar issue with my previous phone - a Nexus 5x. The phone is even VoLTE certified, but when using Cyanogenmod/LineageOS, it would have really terrible reception, despite the location having almost perfect Band 12 coverage - LineageOS/CM does not (or had no) VoLTE support.
I have also tried "hacking" the X Compact to enable VoLTE support by adding the relevant lines to the build.prop and enabling the option under Settings and (*#*#4636#*#*) but this does not appear to make any difference.
A list of T-Mobile "VoLTE certified" phones can be found here:
http://www.spectrumgateway.com/compatible-phones
Would be great if anyone has any suggestions how to resolve this, or force the phone to prioritize Band 12, but it would otherwise appear that the only solution is to get the phone certified by T-Mobile (so much for net neutrality and open access).
I'm using an Xperia X Compact and my home market only has band 12 lte and I can't connect to it. Which means I'm always in 3g or roaming and rarely have data in buildings. It's maddening because I will only buy Sony. I think they are the only manufacturer making attractive handsets and the build quality is light years beyond well marketed, poorly constructed brands like Samsung and LG. But regardless of anyone's choice of manufacturer, a device with a functioning 700 mhz lte radio should function just fine on the corresponding network regardless of where it was purchased.
Would certifying this device and enabling VOLTE be particularly costly to Sony? Correct me if I'm wrong but based on internal components this device should be capable of this ja?
I think it wouldn't hurt to send petitions to both the manufacturer and T-mobile USA. This certainly doesn't help Sony in a market they are seriously struggling in. It also isn't very uncarrier to favor certain devices over others.
The only reason I switched from Verizon was the ability to choose my device. That and the things John Legere was doing to change the industry. I believed in what he was saying. But right now it isn't working for me and likely many others. He should know. I can say firsthand that the guy answers his emails. I think we need to show both parties that this is worth their attention.
---------- Post added at 01:09 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:14 AM ----------
I should mention that after multiple calls to T-mobile tech support I received a cryptic call very late at night from someone high up in tech support.
Long story short he at least admitted that even though it wasn't a t mobile device and even though it didn't support VoLTE, it should still connect to band 12 just fine. He also said that they were having problems with this sort of thing in my area and that it should be resolved in a month. He also said my IMEI was logged and I would be given priority in the matter. Whatever that means.
I should also mention that was a month ago and he didn't have an email to give me. He did however give me a phone number (probably just the department) that I need to dig up.
Could just be a bunch of fluff because they are afraid to lose customers. Then again he was from tech support not customer retention. And as I said t mobile does listen to its customers.
POMF2K said:
I'm using an Xperia X Compact and my home market only has band 12 lte and I can't connect to it. Which means I'm always in 3g or roaming and rarely have data in buildings. It's maddening because I will only buy Sony. I think they are the only manufacturer making attractive handsets and the build quality is light years beyond well marketed, poorly constructed brands like Samsung and LG. But regardless of anyone's choice of manufacturer, a device with a functioning 700 mhz lte radio should function just fine on the corresponding network regardless of where it was purchased.
Would certifying this device and enabling VOLTE be particularly costly to Sony? Correct me if I'm wrong but based on internal components this device should be capable of this ja?
I think it wouldn't hurt to send petitions to both the manufacturer and T-mobile USA. This certainly doesn't help Sony in a market they are seriously struggling in. It also isn't very uncarrier to favor certain devices over others.
The only reason I switched from Verizon was the ability to choose my device. That and the things John Legere was doing to change the industry. I believed in what he was saying. But right now it isn't working for me and likely many others. He should know. I can say firsthand that the guy answers his emails. I think we need to show both parties that this is worth their attention.
---------- Post added at 01:09 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:14 AM ----------
I should mention that after multiple calls to T-mobile tech support I received a cryptic call very late at night from someone high up in tech support.
Long story short he at least admitted that even though it wasn't a t mobile device and even though it didn't support VoLTE, it should still connect to band 12 just fine. He also said that they were having problems with this sort of thing in my area and that it should be resolved in a month. He also said my IMEI was logged and I would be given priority in the matter. Whatever that means.
I should also mention that was a month ago and he didn't have an email to give me. He did however give me a phone number (probably just the department) that I need to dig up.
Could just be a bunch of fluff because they are afraid to lose customers. Then again he was from tech support not customer retention. And as I said t mobile does listen to its customers.
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Click to collapse
Since I did encounter this also on my Nexus 5x with LineageOS, I doubt that what T-Mobile told you is true. They must be actively blocking these non-certified handsets, since the phone should just attempt connecting.
So who do we need to appeal to? T mobile or Sony.?
POMF2K said:
So who do we need to appeal to? T mobile or Sony.?
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Click to collapse
Both. Maybe also complain to the FCC - I thought that carriers needed to provide open access to their network. Verizon got into hot water for not doing so ...
Does your compact ever connect to lte for a few seconds after a reboot?
I might try to force LTE and restart and see if that has any effect.
I just flashed the UK. T mobile networks work just fine. Well except lte/4g but that was expected.
POMF2K said:
Does your compact ever connect to lte for a few seconds after a reboot?
I might try to force LTE and restart and see if that has any effect.
I just flashed the UK. T mobile networks work just fine. Well except lte/4g but that was expected.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It does connect sometimes but it then usually kicks down to Band 4 or a GSM band (HSDPA, UMTS, EDGE, or even GPRS).
I cannot find any info how to prioritize LTE bands, so I assume this is T-Mobile's band 12 cell tower's kicking the phone off when they notice that it is not VoLTE approved.
Interesting discussion on Howard forums....
http://www.howardforums.com/showthr...rtphones-with-band-12-LTE-w-o-VoLTE-now/page2
POMF2K said:
Interesting discussion on Howard forums....
http://www.howardforums.com/showthr...rtphones-with-band-12-LTE-w-o-VoLTE-now/page2
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Click to collapse
Interesting discussion though nothing new.
Yes, we know that Band 12 phones should be able to get a data connection, yet T-Mobile apparently actively disconnects them (or bars them from connecting), especially in areas where Band 12 would give you great coverage but there is no other coverage.
F Sony and F T-Mobile for this!
BTW: here is an article about the follow up model: https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2017/08/sony-xperia-xz1-compact/
Please leave comments about Sony not getting their phones approved for VoLTE with T-Mobile and the phone therefore NOT REALLY WORKING with the carrier.
It would seem to me that the only solution to this problem would be either T-Mobile accepting a standard spec for VoLTE, they open source their code for VoLTE, or someone figures out how to implement VoLTE and trick T-Mobile to think it is an approved "whitelisted" phone.
Given that the T-Mobile network is getting worse and worse every day without Band 12 coverage, I find it really surprising that most people just don't seem to care. Does nobody use their phone outside of WiFi?
andTab said:
It would seem to me that the only solution to this problem would be either T-Mobile accepting a standard spec for VoLTE, they open source their code for VoLTE, or someone figures out how to implement VoLTE and trick T-Mobile to think it is an approved "whitelisted" phone.
Given that the T-Mobile network is getting worse and worse every day without Band 12 coverage, I find it really surprising that most people just don't seem to care. Does nobody use their phone outside of WiFi?
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Click to collapse
There is a standard spec, the problem is the certification. It requires a certificate from T-mobile to be used by the phone, which is gained through certification. And if SONY is detecting T-mobile at the modem level then there isn't anything a ROM can do with or without a ROM. I had a Z5, but this drove me crazy so I switched to a Pixel.
I wouldn't expect this to change based on SONY de-prioritizing the US phone market, so either upgrade to a new supported sony phone or move on (shrug)
sovanyio said:
There is a standard spec, the problem is the certification. It requires a certificate from T-mobile to be used by the phone, which is gained through certification. And if SONY is detecting T-mobile at the modem level then there isn't anything a ROM can do with or without a ROM. I had a Z5, but this drove me crazy so I switched to a Pixel.
I wouldn't expect this to change based on SONY de-prioritizing the US phone market, so either upgrade to a new supported sony phone or move on (shrug)
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That can't be true.
I accept that T-Mobile may issue a certificate but that must be processed on the rom/OS/phone.apk level. Otherwise, every custom ROM on any certified phone would work. We all know that is not the case.
If it's the rom/OS/phone.apk though, why can't we hack a phone to work with TMUS / VoLTE?
I have an x compact and while it is the best device I have ever owned it is essentially unusable on T-Mobile or att.
andTab said:
That can't be true.
I accept that T-Mobile may issue a certificate but that must be processed on the rom/OS/phone.apk level. Otherwise, every custom ROM on any certified phone would work. We all know that is not the case.
If it's the rom/OS/phone.apk though, why can't we hack a phone to work with TMUS / VoLTE?
I have an x compact and while it is the best device I have ever owned it is essentially unusable on T-Mobile or att.
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Click to collapse
Because the SONY modem firmware doesn't even attempt to negotiate VoLTE, which does *not* happen in user space. It is likely possible to hack the qualcomm modem with QPST to enable this, but without documentation and correct values one will not get very far.
sovanyio said:
Because the SONY modem firmware doesn't even attempt to negotiate VoLTE, which does *not* happen in user space. It is likely possible to hack the qualcomm modem with QPST to enable this, but without documentation and correct values one will not get very far.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If it was the modem, then flashing a new system (eg custom ROM) should not make any difference.
I also have a Nexus 5x. With stock it is fantastic and uses VoLTE on T-Mobile. With LineageOS, it is useless on Band 12. SAME MODEM!
Experience therefore shows that it is the OS/System that somehow prevents this from working.
andTab said:
If it was the modem, then flashing a new system (eg custom ROM) should not make any difference.
I also have a Nexus 5x. With stock it is fantastic and uses VoLTE on T-Mobile. With LineageOS, it is useless on Band 12. SAME MODEM!
Experience therefore shows that it is the OS/System that somehow prevents this from working.
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Click to collapse
The Nexus 5x is a different phone made by a different manufacturer with a different firmware scheme. You cannot compare them directly.
I noticed that the XZ1 Compact says right on the website compatible with t mobile band 12 and wifi calling... this is infuriating. It should be easy for them to patch the Xperia x compact.
I would have never purchased this if I had known. Especially since they apparently flashed an update to my old t mobile z3 that allows voice over lte and band 12.
Sony X Compact
sovanyio said:
There is a standard spec, the problem is the certification. It requires a certificate from T-mobile to be used by the phone, which is gained through certification. And if SONY is detecting T-mobile at the modem level then there isn't anything a ROM can do with or without a ROM. I had a Z5, but this drove me crazy so I switched to a Pixel.
I wouldn't expect this to change based on SONY de-prioritizing the US phone market, so either upgrade to a new supported sony phone or move on (shrug)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It has to be on Sony, use the t-mobile BYOD app to check, I have a Huawei mate 9 that I just purchased, connects perfectly on band 12, VoLTE works just like it's supposed to. On a side note I went through three Sony phones before I bought this Huawei, had to return all three due to quality control issues, one had worst touches that made the phone unusable, one wouldn't pick up the SIM card, and the third wouldn't power on at all, thank good Amazon refunded my money on all three. They may have the Sony name on the phone, but they are still build by the lowest bidder in China and makes with Sony's name.
revjamescarver said:
It has to be on Sony, use the t-mobile BYOD app to check, I have a Huawei mate 9 that I just purchased, connects perfectly on band 12, VoLTE works just like it's supposed to. On a side note I went through three Sony phones before I bought this Huawei, had to return all three due to quality control issues, one had worst touches that made the phone unusable, one wouldn't pick up the SIM card, and the third wouldn't power on at all, thank good Amazon refunded my money on all three. They may have the Sony name on the phone, but they are still build by the lowest bidder in China and makes with Sony's name.
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See this: http://www.androidpolice.com/2015/0...cked-smartphones-and-yep-its-still-confusing/ It is up to an OEM to decide to go through this process per-phone. Since no US carrier carried the phone they didn't not bother spending the money or time to certify it. I loved the SONY design, but since they weren't supporting the market I had to abandon them for other phones.