[Q] Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 7.0 Bluetooth Keyboard Will Not Work

Hello all,

Thanks for having me here, this is my first time posting on this site. I recently purchased a Galaxy Tab 3 7.0 from Sprint as they're running a deal and they're cheap. I'm using the tablet for my startup company, we will be using it for route delivery. In order to make things more efficient when visiting customers and placing orders, I purchased a MoKo Bluetooth Keyboard Cover Case from Amazon. I can't link it since I'm a noob haha. I also purchased a Zebra RW420 mobile receipt printer that I have already gotten to connect via Bluetooth with the tablet. However, when I try to use the Bluetooth keyboard that is already paired with the device, it does not work. I've tried factory resetting, unpairing/repairing, etc. Just typical troubleshooting protocol. I know my issue is not with the keyboard as it connects to other Android devices, such as my phone which is a Galaxy S4 and my buddy's tablet by NVIDIA; both are running Android 4.3 while I'm stuck at 4.2.2 on the Tab 3.

I literally JUST bought the device; should I return it and get something else? I got it because it was cheap and I'll only be using it for work so it doesn't have to be spectacular. Is it worth it to root the device as opposed to doing the latter? Are there any risks I have to worry about with rooting that could affect my deliveries (i.e. the device bricks)? Do I have any other options besides what I mentioned? Will I still be able to connect to Sprint's network even after it is rooted? I've been researching all night and the only thing I've really found was that 4.2.2 broke Bluetooth for a lot of devices and that the only way out of 4.2.2 on the Galaxy Tab 3 is to root it. I plan on taking it to the Sprint store tomorrow but figured I'd share my issue with others and come straight to you guys as I'm sure you'll probably be more informative.

Thanks in advance, I look forward to hearing from you all.

Update

Update: Went to Sprint, got the answer I expected there's nothing they can do about it; I can either wait it out and hope they release the 4.3 update or return it since I'm within the first 14 days

Thanks for the response. I know it's not the keyboard, I've connected it to other devices, the problem is specifically the Tab 3. When I took it into Sprint they went through the standard troubleshooting protocol on both my device and one that they had in the store and it paired with both of them, the keys just don't register. I'm convinced that it is Android 4.2.2 that is causing it as that's what I've seen in my research; Bluetooth was rewritten in 4.2.2 and broke Bluetooth for a lot of devices. I'm considering rooting it and putting either 4.1 or 4.3 on it, I just have a few questions:

1) Will it rooting/flashing it affect its ability to connect to Sprint's mobile network?
2) I'm using it for route delivery so I can't have it brick on me while I'm out; what are the chances/common causes of bricking?
3) Would I be better off with 4.1 or 4.3? Which is more stable (if either)?