I got an unlocked Note 8. Bad idea, good idea, or does it not even matter?

[AprilAr]

I've always loved to root and install a custom ROM. If I ran into issues I could always run back to Sprint's default OS. Will there be stock samsung software if I run into issues with flashing?

Also, is there any benefit to getting the unlocked vs Sprint version other than being able to use it on other carriers?

Thanks!

 

[xxx42069]

Umm... Bad idea, if you're getting it for rooting. To the best of my knowledge the unlocked version won't be anymore able to root than the sprint version because they are both the snapdragon variants made for North America. Unless by unlocked version you mean the international version? That's the only one that will be rooted for a long, long time, if not ever.

 

[AprilAr]

Oh wow, really? That sucks. I like being able to customize my phone. If this is the same with unlocked and the Sprint version, I might cancel my pre order :/

 

[Jay5583]

I've always loved to root and install a custom ROM. If I ran into issues I could always run back to Sprint's default OS. Will there be stock samsung software if I run into issues with flashing?

Also, is there any benefit to getting the unlocked vs Sprint version other than being able to use it on other carriers?

Thanks!

FWIW...From what the Samsung rep told me at my local BestBuy.. the Unlocked Note 8 is fully compatible with Verizon and AT&T. You might have some 'features/functionality' that is exclusive to the Sprint version because of the software tweaks that will only work on a Sprint version Note 8.
As you stated to be someone who roots/installs custom ROMs, think of it as why you need to install certain custom kernels, csc files, etc etc to make certain features work.

 

[Mike02z]

All "unlocked" means is that it's not locked into one carrier. It has nothing to do with a boot-loader unlock. I'm not saying it's not going to happen but I think the odds are slim. Someone may find a way to root the device which is all I really would like to see.

 

[AprilAr]

That really sucks. I guess I mainly liked not having bloatware which I have heard this phone doesn't have.... But I like to customize my menu and every other aspect of the phone. Hopefully the battery life is good compared to the Note 5

 

[imatts]

That really sucks. I guess I mainly liked not having bloatware which I have heard this phone doesn't have.... But I like to customize my menu and every other aspect of the phone. Hopefully the battery life is good compared to the Note 5

I agree, I have literally never used a stock (OEM ROM or aosp) ROM since like 2011. Resurrection for LIFE.

I will totally risk all that for the S-Pen though lol.

 

[AprilAr]

I don't use the S pen :/

 

[AprilAr]

That might make me a bad person, haha.