Will Verizon be carrying the new Windows Lumia 950 and the 950 XL in October?
Not likely, unconfirmed leaks say ATT & T-mobile, but no one knows for sure until Microsoft and Verizon says they are or are not. We will know more from Microsoft's announcement on October 6.
Microsoft's Announcement
I sincerely hope so.. I responded on a previous Lumia 950/950XL question that I (and my other 4 lines) will likely leave Verizon if they don't offer flagship phones with the Windows OS. There are probably over 1 million Windows phone users on Verizon alone, and I think whoever is using Windows OS phones uses it because they love it, despite the lack of sales support they get from Verizon and despite all the droid and Apple fanboys bashing it because it is a great operating system (and therefore a threat).
I honestly doubt they are going to carry it. It seems like VZW is not a big fan of Windows Phone... Their management made it pretty clear that they didn't think windows phone was going to make it since day one. I doubt they are going to proof themselves wrong. Lumia Icon is a good example. A windows flagship barely made any appearances on most VZW retail stores, and their staff tried to talk me out of it every time I asked for it. Why even carry it if they are not going to sell it.
I for one will switch carrier if I can't get 950 XL here. Of course, I doubt VZW is going to care if a few of us leave.
Here's another thought... Why charge early termination fee, if every company is paying each other's ETF?
Another tell-tale sign is that Verizon Wireless will not allow the 4G/LTE iteration of the Microsoft Surface 3 directly onto it's network. A surrogate device like a smartphone or a Jetpack is needed.
Watch for VZW to not allow the new Lumia phones to be brought onto the network either.
It looks like Microsoft and VZW will be parting company by the end of the year.
Tablet and phones are different. If the device supports the 700 spectrum it'll work no matter where you bought it from. If it doesn't it's not Verizons problem but MS problem for not supporting said spectrum.
Look at Nexus 6, iPhone 6, and Moto X 2015. They support the spectrum so they can't be blocked from using.
Verizon Wireless advised that simply inserting a SIM card into a Microsoft Surface 3 isn't enough to bring the device online. There needs to be a product code for the S3 built to assign/associate to the SIM card.
As of now, there is no code for the S3 in the system...and with the sour relationship between Microsoft and VZW, I'm not going to hold my breath waiting for that to change.
Agreed! I will be ordering a 950XL and Band2 ASAP after October 6th. Although I currently have 7 lines on Verizon, if they won't allow me to activate the 950XL on Verizon, I will definitely switch to AT&T under my Parent's plan.
More leaked 950 images:
8 images of the Lumia 950 & Lumia 950 XL the Microsoft Store did not want you to see | Windows Central
I'm leaning towards very unlikely since it's been rumored to be universal GSM, but more and more phones are having all US major frequency models within the phone. It's actually sounding like Microsoft will sell it unlocked through the Microsoft store possibly only. I'd be surprised if not best buy too. Very similar to how Google is doing the two new Nexus phones. A lot of people are just used to buying their phone through their cell carrier. The real question is will Microsoft make a CDMA model or include CDMA, GSM, and WCDMA in all their phones. Since universal GSM is rumored along with nothing else. I don't like the odds, but since they're not likely selling it through cell companies I think there's hope. There'd be a lot of confusion for a lot of people that don't understand these things. Nor do I 100% fully understand it. This will likely be a deal breaker for me.
I think that CDMA vs GSM will decline in significance as VoLTE progresses. Moving voice onto the data network will allow for more phones outside of the ones VZW sells in house to be brought online.
As of now, Windows Mobile devices are not permitted onto VZW's network (it clearly states that in the discussion about what is currently permitted under BYOD). It may get to the point where VZW throws open the door, allows everyone in...but...does so with the understanding that the performance of "outside" devices will not be guaranteed by VZW.
This is similar to what the Bell System did pre-divestiture. Today the RBOCs have largely gotten away from selling telephones and any phone purchased from Best Buy or even the cheapo models sold at CVS will work well with landlines.
Based on everything I've heard, they won't be having the 950 or 950XL.
I did hear something about Samsung supplying a windows 10 phone to Verizon.
They had better
I hope they carry both the lumia 950 and 950XL, since I want to get the 950 XL for me and the 950 for my wife
We may get some answers during tomorrow's presentation.
If they don't, I'm pretty sure I'm switching to ATT...and I'm grandfathered into unlimited data. So maybe VZW will be happy to see me go.
We are never happy to see any customer even considering leaving, IAmVortiguant. I understand the importance of having the best selection of phones for your needs. You can certainly sign up at http://bit.ly/dDumph to be the first to know when any new devices do make their way to our line up. What is it that you're looking for in your new phone? I'd love to find you a phone that we currently carry to continue as your wireless provider.
JenniferH_VZWFollow us on Twitter @VZWSupportIf my response answered your question please click the "Correct Answer" button under my response. This ensures others can benefit from our conversation. Thanks in advance for your help with this!!
Is it just me or did two new windows phone get added just this morning to Verizons website and neither are the flagship phones we are all wanting?
Nope, same three phones have been there for awhile.
Thanks, they just apparently weren't showing up in the Windows filter before.
Just adding my voice to the crowd here.
If Verizon does not carry the Lumia 950 or 950XL, I'll move my FIVE lines to a different carrier.
So the announcement is over but we still have no answer.
Nope. No carrier was announced today, just unlocked versions of the phone. Neither of which will work on VZW network.
Probably will know more in November when they are actually released.
Where are the Lumia 950 and 950XL. I want to place an order. My family is looking at leaving Verizon if they can't or won't support these phones.
I hope Verizon does carry the 950 and 950xl (even the 550 too). I have had my Lumia 928 coming up on 3 years and it is a great phone. I still get compliments on the photos I take from it. Please Verizon support these phones. I am not a fan of changing but the family may need to rethink our phone carrier as we do often.
Here are the specs I'm looking for:
I think the many posts and threads are pretty clear - a lot of us want a flagship @Windows10 mobile phone on Verizon. We would like Verizon to make an announcement ASAP to let us know what its plans are regarding these devices. If there are not going to be any devices in the near future, that's important and we customers should not be strung along in the hopes that one might show up. If some are in the works, then we would appreciate a time frame so we don't jump to another carrier in haste. Keeping us in the dark only frustrates your customers.
Microsoft can do it themselves. They don't need Verizon to do anything. Verizon doesn't need to announce a thing. That's the beauty of block C. I'd rather have carriers hands off and block C allows that.
Jennifer,
Much of the discontent expressed here is due primarily to Verizon Wireless's perceived lack of support...or...outright disdain for Windows based phones. Thus Paul Thurrott noted that VZW and Microsoft would likely be parting company by the end of the year.
Windows mobile devices are not allowed on Verizon's network??
I currently run a Microsoft Lumia Icon on Verizon network.
It was hard to buy from Verizon because all their salespeople push Android or Apple but the Lumia Icon works great on Verizon's network. Very snappy, versatile and the camera is so far superior to iPhone 6 it's not even funny.
Dexman so true, Verizon treats Windows Phone different than Android and iOS.
The ones previous released with the compatible radio frequencies are allowed. It is the new announced today that don't have the radio frequencies to be compatible with the Verizon Wireless network.
It sounds like initially it will be an att exclusive and possibly the 950 will be. The 950 XL is already on Microsofts website so we know we can always buy it unlocked. Which is better anyways. I was told the WDCMA 2 band (1900) will work on Verizon. Is that enough and correct I'll leave that for the smarter people then I.
Nolan
Here is what I think will happen - Verizon won't carry the new Lumia phones. Here is what I'm thinking of doing - take my three lines and go to att. I had an iPad, replaced it with Surface Pro 3. Now i'll be dumping my iPhone 6 and will go with the 950XL. Call me a Windows junkie but I love the idea of having my computers, tablet, and phone being part of the same ecosystem.
When will the 950xl launch? I switched from sprint to get the Lumia 928 back in the day. Will I have to switch to att to get the 950xl?
AT&T or T-Mobile if you buy the unlocked one.
I certainly hope that MS and Verizon strike a deal to provide the Lumia 950/950XL on Verizon or that it will work unlocked on the Verizon network. I compared the networks and bands specified for the Lumia 735 on Verizon and the 950/950XL both have everything the 735 is reported to have (ala the MS store and Phone Arena). But the lack of CDMA per se seems to indicate that they will not work on Verizon's 3G network even if it will on the 4G LTE.
As for updates, I think you can get updates via the Windows Insider program to get around the carrier's slow distribution.
Initially it will be sold through att and likely on Microsoft so you can buy it unlocked. Will work on t mobile and att. Release is November
Kody_Z your voice is heard. We appreciate all feedback that helps us be better for you in the future. There's no need to leave. We offer a variety of devices that will fit your needs. You can stay tuned for upcoming devices here:
http://www.verizonwireless.com/news/LTE/Overview.html
LasinaH_VZWFollow us on Twitter @VZWSupportIf my response answered your question please click the "Correct Answer" button under my response. This ensures others can benefit from our conversation. Thanks in advance for your help with this!!
Wow, several post from VZW Customer Support telling you what phone you need instead of the phone you want. Apparently we all "need" the ibone or a Galaxy.
I love my Icon. I love Windows 10. I "want & "need" a phone that will run Win10 & will leave VZW to get one. (I'm sure I can get AT&T to pay my ETF's.) Don't tell me that I will be able to upgrade my Icon to Windows 10, I remember Denim.
So Verizon, be happy as the worm in the Apple; I will take my business elsewhere. I don't want to be told what phone I need; I already have a government that tells me what I need.
So with this info, can someone tell me if an unlocked Lumia 950XL purchased from Microsoft will work on Verizon?? Thanks
Do you offer the Lumia 950 as one of your devices? If not then your variety of devices is sorely lacking. No, I'm not going to sign up for upcoming devices so I can get a bunch of email about Android and Crapple devices I don't care about. If you are truly looking to satisfy all your customers then carry the devices they want, NOT just the devices you want to sell them.
I've been a customer of Verizon for close to 14 years, I don't really remember. I originally came from AT&T. Due to numerous dropped calls in my calling area at that time I had to switch. I've loved Verizon ever since. I've been doing research as of lately and found that AT&T has much improved there network do to the IPhone fiasco.
Through the years I've waited on several new phones. Some came to Verizon others didn't and I made due. I've currently been holding out, I still have a Samsung Galaxy S3 with free unlimited data. I've been waiting for the new Windows phones and now they are finally here. I've been on Android for the past couple of phones and I just don't feel it anymore, and I've never been an Apple guy. So I'm heading towards Windows. Looks like I'm going to be buying the Lumia 950 XL unlocked from MS Store. Not sure as of yet where I'm bringing it though. Might go back to AT&T. Thank you if you've read my mega post.
I think these phones have been pre-arranged agreements from the beginning. AT&T said yes, Verizon said no, T-Mobile was never in the loop according to there presidents twitter page. He's pretty pissed that MS never offered it to T-Mobile. I guess it still can happen, the hardware is compatible?
You can buy it unlocked and it'll work on T-Mobile, but as far as certain support goes like wifi calling, RCS, and their video calling will not happen.
Are all of those features supported with AT&T?
No as AT&T doesn't offer those. They plan to eventually have wifi calling but then again they just got approved yesterday by the FCC. RCS is only run on T-Mobile, and they are pushing for all carriers to have it and make it interloping so it'll work like regular texts.
neccoboy,
There is a lot of buzz going on about the Lumia 950 device. I can understand wanting to have the latest technologies in the Window line. We would love to take care of your wireless service through the Lumia device. We want to keep you in the Verizon wireless fold. Since you motioned that you was going to purchase the phone unlocked, I want to invite you to take the device to one of our stores to see if can work on our network.
VeronicaM_VZWFollow us on Twitter @VZWSupportIf my response answered your question please click the �Correct Answer� button under my response. This ensures others can benefit from our conversation. Thanks in advance for your help with this!!
Verizon Wireless Customer Support neccoboy, There is a lot of buzz going on about the Lumia 950 device. I can understand wanting to have the latest technologies in the Window line. We would love to take care of your wireless service through the Lumia device. We want to keep you in the Verizon wireless fold. Since you motioned that you was going to purchase the phone unlocked, I want to invite you to take the device to one of our stores to see if can work on our network. VeronicaM_VZWFollow us on Twitter @VZWSupportIf my response answered your question please click the �Correct Answer� button under my response. This ensures others can benefit from our conversation. Thanks in advance for your help with this!!
Couple Questions.
1. If there's enough buzz will it mean Verizon will consider adding these phones to the lineup?
2. Doesn't Verizon Wireless already know if the unlocked phones will work on the Verizon network? Because after looking at several threads here it's evident that they won't work because the 950s don't support the Verizon frequencies which would make purchasing them a waste of money and a waste of time spent going to a Verizon Store to ask a sales rep if the device will work when all they know how to operate are the Androids and iPhones.
Hopefully Verizon and Microsoft will work this out soon because even though the Windows Phone platform is the smallest of the smartphone category it wouldn't have to be that way if was properly marketed. Instead of solely pushing Androids and iPhones they should give each platform and equal push and let the customer decide. It would also help if the sales reps were as knowledgeable in Windows Phones like they are with Androids and iPhones. When I got mine last year I was explaining the features and functions to the sales rep who didn't know what they were or where the phones were in the store, I had to walk him over to the table in the far corner of the store behind everything else in the store to show him what I wanted. I did my homework for the Icon/929 six months before I made the purchase because I had to wait for my contract to expire to be eligible for the discount price. All I did was familiarize myself with the features and functions that were here and on the Microsoft website; it wasn't intensive tedium but enough to whet my appetite and make the sale which is what most sales reps fail miserably to do.
I'm going out on a limb and say I'm speaking for the millions of current Verizon Windows Phone customers and prospective Verizon Windows Phone Customers switching from other carriers when saying WE WANT THE 950 and 950XL!!!!!!!!!
Thank you and have a nice day.
John
JohnFourtyTwo, we want you upgrade to the phone of your choice. We appreciate this feedback. We'll uplift it to our marketing team to ensure that your voice is heard. Meanwhile, we're unable to confirm if that device will be offered on our network. However, you may stay tuned for upcoming devices here: http://www.verizonwireless.com/news/LTE/Overview.html
Version needs to allow these devices on their network. Microsoft makes a great phone OS. I've been using Windows Phone since the 6.x days. WP8 / 8.1 was a breakthrough. WP10 is an evolution as well. These phones and their ability to look and feel like a full OS (Continuum), their cameras, standardized platform makes these a great choice for the casual and power user.
I'm tired of Verizon placing all sorts or focus on Android (oh and IOS). And it's not because "everyone" wants Android or IOS. I personally had several people go, when their plan was up, to check out Windows phones. What happens? The sales folks either laugh at the choice and / or push the latest Android handset. That sounds like some type of underground kickback occurring. Fair? I doubt it. MS is developing the OS as well as the handset. There are also others manufacturers making the HW. Verizon is not, so what gives on the control? Are Windows phone trashing their CDMA network? That would be ridiculous to claim.
I don't know what the story is, but Verizon needs to mature and more openly allow new and more Windows phone handsets into their CDMA family or folks (like me) will begin to look for other carriers. We may be a small percentage of the market, but it's still an impact. AT&T has improved their network coverage pretty well over the years That is my next choice. And since I can bring my phone number with me, I don't' see many downsides to the switch.
I will continue to monitor and hope Verizon comes through, so I can upgrade my phone device to a 950XL.
Microsoft isn't making them. Verizon wasn't even approached to even have the current devices and MS gave exclusivity to AT&T for a while. Blame MS why you can't have the phone on Verizon just yet if ever.
The plot thickens...
http://pocketnow.com/2015/10/09/microsoft-lumia-950-att-exclusivity
Maybe it has to do with control over updates.
Sent from my Windows Phone
I don't believe so. It's just Microsoft being Microsoft and not knowing what they are doing which is going to end up killing Windows 10 Mobile.
I can somewhat understand having one carrier for the initial rollout. What I can't understand why not sell the devices unlocked that will work on all carriers from you're own stores.
Regarding Microsoft Short and Long term strategy; Looks like Apple did the same thing, albeit Apple has already unlocked all the frequency bands and Carriers are ready and willing to allow an iPhone on their networks.
http://www.cultofmac.com/391682/iphone-6s-now-available-sim-free-from-the-apple-store/
I do agree it's oddly an Apple copycat strategy, but the iPhone truly was an Att exclusive. It was also at a time when smart phones were a relative new thing. T mobile users can easily buy and use either phones. The one thing Apple had that Microsoft doesn't is the kids (future market). Kids are getting smart phones at a young age. Apple controls the iPod market not the Zuma. Kids have gone from the iPod like all their friends to the iPhone. So many people are just using basic phone uses and won't be changing because it's an exclusive so I really don't get the strategy. How people aren't getting mad about not having what should be basic. A removable battery and sd card slot befuddles me. Internal storage is crazy expensive. I just get the feeling Verizon is getting another different version to try and please this community.
IMHO if Microsoft truly wanted Windows Phone to succeed they should have gone to all the companies that had the most popular iPhone and Android apps and said hey we'll develop and maintain apps for you just to show what can be done in the OS. Instead they waited for them to do it which we all know never happen being there's not a huge market share the OS.
I'm really hoping with Windows 10 Mobile and the introduction of universal apps and the ability to port iPhone and Android apps (http://www.tomshardware.com/news/microsoft-windows-10-phone-android-ios,29022.html) that Windows 10 Mobile will take off.
Yep, I agree. Windows 10 is a game changer is MS markets it right.
Completely agree Primortal and geebox. I was so excited and still am about the porting. Normally I could careless about companies market share, but it affects where developers create and maintain apps. Literally my only issue with Windows mobile is a lack of apps. Spec for spec it's really a no brainer. Not even factoring in its lower cost. I'm running 10 on my Xbox and all my computers. While I wasn't a fan of 8 on non touch screens. The efficiency of just integrating these two different products with 10 has been awesome. The OS really means the most to me right now. Knowing the 735 will get an update might be good enough for me to stay on Verizon. Just wish we had all the answers since as I've been wanting to buy a new phone as of a few days ago. I really thought the products would be available on 10/10. So of course thought we would have had answers 10/6.
primortal wrote: I'm really hoping with Windows 10 Mobile and the introduction of universal apps and the ability to port iPhone and Android apps (http://www.tomshardware.com/news/microsoft-windows-10-phone-android-ios,29022.html) that Windows 10 Mobile will take off.
primortal wrote:
Yea, I think the Universal App strategy is going to be a major game changer her in the USA.
Lasina,
As noted to Jennifer's earlier reply, it is known that Verizon Wireless has not been supportive of Windows phones to the extent that at&t has. So much so that Microsoft is not releasing new phones that can be brought onto the VZW network and that Microsoft and VZW will supposedly be parting company by the end of the year.
That's a real shame.
Then again, maybe BlackBerry will do the same. If Windows Phone and BB are gone from VZ, maybe some business customers will start realizing that their business communications/data is not secure on the whole Apple/Android duopoly and start leaving VZ.
Then maybe VZ will realize that bad mouthing one OS in favor of others IS NOT their job. They are a frequency carrier/provider, not a hardware sales company. Let people make their own decisions about phones.
At that point, would the Qualcomm "license"(sounds more like extortion to me) even be needed?
Would it be easier for VZ to tell Qualcomm buzz off, we don't need/want your antiquated hardware on our system any longer?
Does Qualcomm have sole monopoly of that frequency spectrum, or is there other hardware manufacturers that can access the frequencies? If its a monopoly, then it needs to be broken via the Sherman Anti-Trust act to allow competition.
They own the key components patents for CDMA. Verizon is moving away from CDMA but they still use it due to legacy.
Think of it this way... Verizon has 100M+ customers. At least 60% rely on CDMA. Cheaper to pay the licensing than to replace 60M+ phones and tear down a network to replace it with LTE. That could bankrupt Verizon. It isn't that simple. They are transitioning past CDMA and hoping between 2018-2020 to move everyone over the LTE to retire the CDMA network. VoLTE helps this happen sooner and reduces the costs.
Just saw this over on Windows Central:
(Look at the five print at the bottom.)
Can you drag and drop the photo over linking the website? A lot of sites are blocked at the office(99% of the internet)
It is a photo of the Lumia 950 XL sticker from the MS store and the fine print says that the phone not support CDMA and to check with your carrier to see if the phone is compatible.
Don't think that's US, pre orders are starting outside of the US. If its in the US show us a US link and in ordering today.
Geebox wrote: Don't think that's US, pre orders are starting outside of the US. If its in the US show us a US link and in ordering today. Sent from my Windows Phone
Geebox wrote:
That image is from an actual US Microsoft Store of the display model. You can go to just about any Microsoft Store and take a look at the phone and see the same spec card..
Paul Thurrott posted an article about Windows 10 Mobile OS Updates and it still status quo that carriers have the final say (unless unlocked, whole different story along with participating in the Windows Insider Program) :smileysad:
Thought this statement stands out the most
First, Microsoft is dropping the carriers—like Verizon—that activey undermined Windows Phone in the past.
So if you want a Windows Phone VZW isn't your carrier and really no use complaining here about being it's not a VZW decision but a Microsoft one.
Source: https://www.thurrott.com/mobile/windows-phone/6889/microsoft-will-not-bypass-carriers-for-windows-10-mobile-updates
Thanks sickfreak
According to the poster, it was in Northern Virginia at Tysons Mall - 10/12/15 3:45pm EST
Yeah, but I've only seen Pre Order coming soon in the Microsoft stores.
So basically, after seeing the above links, basically we can see that Microsoft is going where they think they can get the best service from a given carrier(s).
Understandable given Verizon and Sprints total lack of enthusiasm and support for the Windows Phone OS.
So, that being said, I will:
1) Just have to either wait till AT&T expands to my area (central Nebraska) to get a decent phone, which is doubtful given the fact that Viaero Wireless (a train wreck in and of itself) is squatting on the frequencies AT&T would need for this area.
2) Much to my disliking, may look at going to (barf barf), Android. Who knows, maybe I will just go to Straight Talk and get a dumb phone.
Had about enough of VZ screwing things up just so they can maintain their monopoly on this area for phone service. U.S. Cellular is a bad joke for phones and coverage, and Sprint is non-existent.
Either VZ needs to change their attitude, or they will be headed for the dust bin of technology, no matter how big their network is. If you can't give people choices, they will go where they can get them.
I visited the Boston Microsoft Store yesterday and saw a Lumia 550 on display with Verizon branding (I didn't think to make a call or see if was actually connected to Verizon at the time).
Unless there is an unannounced CDMA version of the Lumia 550, it has a subset of the bands available on the Lumia 950 XL (and presumably the 950 but I didn't check) according to the Microsoft web site and Phone Arena. If the 550 is going to be compatible with Verizon and all its bands and more are available on the 950 XL, shouldn't it also be comparable with Verizon. I am assuming this compatibility would be via VoLTE since neither phone supports CDMA.
Thoughts?
Shelkyn wrote: I visited the Boston Microsoft Store yesterday and saw a Lumia 550 on display with Verizon branding (I didn't think to make a call or see if was actually connected to Verizon at the time). Unless there is an unannounced CDMA version of the Lumia 550, it has a subset of the bands available on the Lumia 950 XL (and presumably the 950 but I didn't check) according to the Microsoft web site and Phone Arena. If the 550 is going to be compatible with Verizon and all its bands and more are available on the 950 XL, shouldn't it also be comparable with Verizon. I am assuming this compatibility would be via VoLTE since neither phone supports CDMA. Thoughts?
Shelkyn wrote:
Interesting. The 550 isn't showing up on Microsoft's online store. And I thought I heard that the 550 was supposed to be Europe at first?
Shelkyn, my understanding is that the chipsets (808 and 810 Snapdragon) for both the 950 and the 950 XL do support CDMA frequencies, but Microsoft has not enabled them. So I believe the hardware within the phones could technically support all of Verizon's bands. The issue then becomes if someone paying for the phones to be CDMA certified and Microsoft issuing a firmware update to unlock the bands.
Ok, maybe this is nuts, but try following something I just thought of.
What if Microsoft is trying a 2-path idea?
1) These Nokia phones are designs started before MS bought them out, so, MS is wanting to get them out and gone basically, and what faster and cheaper way than unlocked and only on GSM freq's?
Now the 550 may be basically a "bridge" device to placate Windows users on VZ till...
MS releases a true "Universal" SURFACE phone, say after the first of the year, as a true "Microsoft Original" design.
This way they get Win 10 Mobile out to the public for testing/marketing buzz and any problems can be worked out before next spring.
Just a thought.
In a few years CDMA will be dead anyways
What you are proposing is possible, but considering that a Surface Phone wouldn't be released until the middle of next year at the earliest, it seems unlikely that the 550 would be to placate VZ users. My personal guess is that they want/wanted to see (and wanted VZ and Sprint to see) consumers reaction to the phone not getting the VZ and Sprint bands. Once they see there is enough demand for it, they will pay for and release CDMA versions.
I dropped Sprint 2 years ago b/c they didn't offer a Lumia phone and if Verizon don't get a Lumia that I want, I will drop them.
You do raise some good additional points, though I don't see why a Surface phone couldn't be released sooner.
Maybe hardware still in testing?
The idea of MS pushing VZ and Sprint's buttons with users raising a ruckus is a very good probability.
My current plan, unless new information comes to light in the next month or so which seems likely, is to purchase the unlocked 950 XL from Microsoft, and take it to a Verizon Store to see if they can get it to work on their network, probably via VoLTE. If not, take it across the street and AT&T has a new customer.
Are you in a major city Shelkyn? Appreciate if you let us know the results.
I couldn't agree more. This is ridiculous.
Kind Regards,
Tim
*Sent from my Windows Phone
Dexman, new phones always do create a buzz and Microsoft does exactly that with their new release. You may watch for any news on our releases at http://www.verizonwireless.com/news/.LorenB_VZWFollow us on Twitter @VZWSupportIf my response answered your question please click the �Correct Answer� button under my response. This ensures others can benefit from our conversation. Thanks in advance for your help with this!!
No. The 950 & 950XL are not built to operate on VZW's network. They will work on at&t's network.
The next chance for us VZW customers to get a VZW compatible high-end Windows Mobile phone will be next year when the first fully designed by Microsoft mobile phone(s) is/are rumored to be released.
dexman I think 950 and 950XL have everything they need, hardware-wise, to work on VZW. The Snapdragon chipsets support CDMA (LG G4 and HTC One M9 have them). I am certainly no expert in the requirements of CDMA, but it seems that all Microsoft has to do to get them to work on CDMA is to pay to have the CDMA testing done and update the firmware so it will connect to CDMA Bands.
Ditto for me not an expert on the legalities that go on behind the scenes between the manufacturers and the carriers.
It could very well be a simple case of Microsoft needing to pay whatever fees are required to get the 950 & 950XL approved for use on VZW's network and then enabling the appropriate bands/frequencies in the software.
But then we circle back to VZW's disinterest (compared to at&t) for Windows products. Someone mentoned that the Lumia 735 was introduced over a year ago and VZW added it to their catalog only recently. People go into the stores to look at Windows phones and sales reps push iPhones. Not very encouraging to say the least.
I agree. I have never liked VZ's disinterest. The thing that gets me is that it shouldn't really matter to Verizon what phone a customer buys, because they pay the same amount for their service. The only argument that one could make is regarding customer service; to say that Android or iPhone customers are happier than WP users, but I don't think you could make a great argument for that. I have had Android (granted not since early on) and an iPhone. And with Androids fragmentation and instability, and Apple's disregard for older devices, you can't say that WP owners are less happy. In fact, I think overall, they are more happy, but that's just me. I just really hope the two companies get together and work it out so they can have customers happy with both of them rather than mad at both of them for having to compromise when it wasn't necessary.
There is a lot more involved. This is why companies do it in advance and if they ever do it. They don't do it after the fact as it is generally more expensive. Assume all the hardware is in there (they is more required than that universal radio)
1. MS would need to pay Qualcomm to test and license CDMA.
2. MS would need to retest with the Bluetooth, and wifi consortium as firmware will have changed.
3. MS needs to go through the FCC testing for recertification.
At any of these fail it goes back to square one and retesting costs money, and resources(albeit not as much as initial testing). This process could take months.
If it isn't approved beforehand then it is extremely rare for companies to go through the process. Often they get approval beforehand and just implement the code later. Check the FCC filings and it's safe to assume that's all you are going to get especially if they are going to put all their eggs in a basket with the surface moniker.
Tidbits My point is that the phone has everything it needs to physically connect to the Verizon's CDMA system. Now, MS has to enable it after it passes the tests and certifications (as you stated above). But that is just some hoops to jump through. They wouldn't have to add anything to the phone to make it work except changing the firmware.
http://wmpoweruser.com/weekend-discussion-verizon-sucks-new-build-last-gapless-playback/
I really think that this may finally make me change carriers. I've been struggling with VZWs lake of support for Windows devices starting with the HTC Trophy. I've loved the coverage area which is important to me as an OTR driver, but I've been overpaying for service for years. I'm also tired of waiting forever for approved updates. I REALLY want a 950XL. I'll wait a bit, but if VZW doesn't start carrying flagship Windows phone, I'm gone...
BTW: build 10586.11 on my Icon is really looking good. I think it's ready for prime time
It is highly unlikely that the 550, 950 & 950XL will be offered or made for Verizon Wireless & Sprint. Microsoft did not submit the new phones for CDMA certification. Microsoft only submitted them for GSM certification, meaning that they will only work on at&t, T-Mobile and their various resellers. Apparently the costs for CDMA certification are higher than GS certification. Microsoft would also have to pay licensing fees to Qualcomm for CDMA.
With the Surface Phone reportedly in the works, the restricting of the three new phones to GSM networks could be a simple cost cutting move on Microsoft's part. Also, Verizon Wireless is slowly moving away from CDMA in order to be fully able to participate in BYOD. So, if CDMA is going away, it doesn't make much sense to spend money to certify new devices.
Now, if the Surface Phone arrives an it is not compatible with Verizon Wireless's VoLTE bands, then there will be trouble.
I have chosen to upgrade my HTC8x to the MS Lumia 735 with the 100 discount from VZW while all this gets sorted out. It will get Win 10, but is a midlevel phone and will not support Continuum.
