Call and Text on other devices not availabe and Message+ is faulty

[hotman_in_atl]

The answer to the question of WHY Verizon chose to turn off a feature intrinsic to Samsung phones was asked in a previous thread.  In that thread, Verizon customer service adroitly avoided answering WHY the "call and text on other devices" feature was turned off for Samsung devices.   Instead, of answering the question as asked they used their rather annoying customer service skills to offer their app Messages+ as a "solution" to their self created "problem" of not being able to call and text on other other Samsung devices such as my TabS7 and S22 phone.   

The entire reason that I just upgraded to a S22 from my perfectly fine S8 phone is so that I could have this feature.   I was previously using the most recent upgrade of the Verizon Messages+ app when it started to randomly not send texts to people with Iphones.  The texts would appear as sent in the Messages+ app on my device but never appear on the Iphones.   I thought I was being ghosted but in reality it was bugs in Verizon's app.   This was never a problem prior to the Message+ app being updated.  Of course, I uninstalled and reinstalled.  I called 311 to report the problem.   I used the Message+ app to send a trouble report to the developers.  No response was ever given and the problem still exists right now.   

Verizon forced us to use their Messages+ app and that app is bug ridden.  I still can't get phone calls on my tablet reliably with it.  Further, no one can hear me when using their app to place or receive calls.  It randomly mutes my side of the conversation as well as randomly ends calls.   My microphone works perfectly for other apps such as Zoom and What's App so it is definitely a Verizon Messages+ problem.  After 3 months of dealing with the Message+ developers trying to resolve the problem (it got raised to a higher priority twice during this time), the problems still exist.   

Bottom line is that in my experience Verizon ignores complaints, avoids answering direct questions, forces us to use their app and then doesn't maintain that app.   If they force us to use an app it should be the best in the market place.  In my experience it isn't and it can never be because they refuse to fix problems when brought forth by users.   I recommend that you get another service.  I will be getting one for sure.  

[joelmp]

I agree with all the above comments.  As a new Verizon customer I am astonished at the Customer Support's inability to understand basic question, respond by reading the website's text that I have already researched and disconnect  the conversation.  My bill is confusing and fluid.  Activation charges after the first month seem excessive.  How many times does my service get activated? Once again, Customer Support helps little.  I am in preparations to change service.  I do appreciate Verizon in that I have been educated about what to avoid and new questions to ask! Thank You Verizon!

[vzw_customer_support]

Goodness, Joel! Your bill should never be a mystery! We always aim to for transparency! And we want you to enjoy your service! Please, send us a Private Note, so we can open your account and make sure that everything is correct, and you know exactly what is going on!

*Chance

[vzw_customer_support]

We are concerned to know about this situation, we want to make sure you get the service you deserve, please send us a private note to further assist you

>Jorge

[joelmp]

I am done with Verizon.  The constant restating of my issues.  The inability of the representatives to resolve issues or explain the Verizon position.  The  incorrect information given.  The constant unwillingness to answer direct questions.  The disconnection from chat and phone help lines. The removal of a manufacturer's feature to sell the feature back was the final straw.  If you are truly concerned you should reach to me!!

[whatever1616]

I am also done with Verizon. I 've had the same issue on my S21 for years and now having it on my Pixel7. I can't sent texts with pics to multiple people using Messages + or any other Android App. Each time I engage Verizon tech support it's the same thing - Reset network settings, Factory reset the device, etc. The issue always comes back. I've asked them for a plan on how to troubleshoot this and nothing comes back. As a technical person,  I would think they would wan traces, logs or something to try and recreate the issue, but I think they just want us to go away.

I'm dropping them as I can. Will go to T-Mobile or AT&T.

[joelmp]

Whatever1616, I am sorry to read that your experience with Verizon has been similar to mine.  I think it's shameful .  I am glad read that you like myself will be exercising what little power we have by not patronizing Verizon's services any longer than is convenient for us.

To VZM:

Being responded to by a someone named Chance made me laugh hard.  Is  your first name Slim?  Slim Chance is what you have  in retaining me as a customer!  Simply responding to post is not reaching out.  I have no interest in going around the mulberry bush again with customer support.  Having customer support read the help page to me is a waste of my time.  You service is bad.  You people are unqualified. 

THE POINT OF THIS THREAD IS TO ADDRESS THE REAL QUESTION:

Is it dishonest to modify the manufacturer Samsung's product by disabling and removing a key feature such as call and text on  other devices then sell customers access to the feature through a service known as a shared line?

Thank you for your time!

[joelmp]

To all concerned VZM did reach out to me in a private message .  I can't read the message because the website is broken.  The black table of contents at the bottom of the page is covering the private messages text.  Verizon scores again.  Yes, I know I can view it on my phone, but I'm good.  My resolve is firm.

[vzw_customer_support]

Hello Joelmp! Thank you for reaching out to me today. I'm really saddened to learn that you are disappointed in our services. I am here to help to the best of my ability. I can reassure you that I will do my best to answer all of your questions today, and help resolve any issues that you are experiencing. What exactly is going on with your device? Just to confirm, you stated that we removed the text and calling feature from your device?

*Kay

[joelmp]

Kay, that is correct.  If it is  not correct please direct me to this feature.  Be aware I have already been directed to the Samsung website. That website clearly instructs users how to enable the feature.   I can enable the feature on my non-Verizon tablet,  The feature can be searched for and found in settings. It is not a hidden feature.  It is actually advertised.  Verizon  disables and removes the feature in order to to sell the feature back as a Shared Line.  If you can find the feature please let the community know how.  Remember copying and pasting an answer from the Samsung website will not solve the issue.

* Who will respond next,?  Wil it be Kay, Chance, Rhonda, Jorge or will it be another unhelpful VZW_CS that had a free minute to respond to a post in thread they care nothing about?

[vzw_customer_support]

Please send us a Private Note.

*Carla

[joelmp]

NOPE!  The last time I actually tried to private message I was asked to a secure chat which is only text messages.  I don't like doing business on text messaging services.  I spent 10 hours explaining to 8 different VZW CS reps what is clearly written on the FAQ page. I was passed around without being notified that I was being transferred.  Each person required I explain the issue to them for clarity.  If the goal was to wear me down Verizon was successful.  I am done with Verizon.  I've been to the T-Mobile store.  Their CS was helpful and friendly,  They were familiar with my issue or should I call it Verizon's issue.  I am currently reviewing their documentation to make an informed decision.   The purpose of these interactions was to raise awareness of Verizon's dishonest business practices and terrible customer service.  Each person will form their own opinion according to their experiences.  My experiences in the short time I have been with Verizon have been horrible.  I wish you all well.

[whatever1616]

I'm also done with Verizon I will probably go to T-Mobile. Did they give you any insight as to what the issue is since Verizon won't tell us?

[joelmp]

Hi whatever1616!

After researching this issue  on the forums of Verizon and Samsung.  The issue (as I see it) is Verizon is allowed to disable and remove the feature Call and Text on other Devices from the Samsung product.  Verizon then sells the feature back to customers as a Shared Line.  Samsung is aware of this.  Apple does not allow their features to be modified.  T-Mobile does not share in these practices.  AT&T does.  Perks and prices vary for each carrier.  At this point T-Mobile seems the best option for me.  Your requirements may differ from mine, and  you may come to a different conclusion.  I am only trying to raise awareness to the dishonesty of this carrier by disabling a feature that is advertised by a manufacturer.  I actually purchased the phone, tablet and watch for the synergy only to blindsided by Verizon bad business practices.  Do not reward bad business with your good money!

P.S.  I could be wrong about any or all of this.  I have yet to find anyone that can point out my error.  To my point about the VZW CS they rarely understand my issue and repeatedly refer me to the help page on the Samsung website about the feature.  I do  follow the instructions to find the feature, but it is not present due to the Verizon software.

[vzw_customer_support]

If you need assistance, please send us a Private Note.

*Carla

[Asturen]

Just found out about this feature. I was really sad it doesn't work because Verizon is gouging us.  I won't use it very often so it's not a deal breaker but it adds to my negative experience.  4 lines high cost plan.

I know if anyone recommends a cell service I will mention that they are willing to gouge you for no reason and in fact went to extra effort to provide an inferior program just to do so..

[vzw_customer_support]

Our goal is to provide a world-class experience when it comes to your service and bill. The last thing we want is for you to have a negative impression of us. We sent you a Private Note, please review at your best convenience.

~Gilbert

[joelmp]

No, I have no new private messages.  I think you're lying to look good on this thread.  I personally know for a fact Verizon is a dishonest company.  If you're a new customer amazed that Verizon disables a feature provided by the company whose product you purchased through Verizon, yea, they got me too!

[vzw_customer_support]

That is definitely not the experience we want you to have. We strive to provide hones and reliable service. Let us help, I'll be sending you a Private Note, please reply to it, so we can get started.

~Maria

[joelmp]

I've already been 'round and 'round the the mulberry bush.  The only thing I found was a snake.

Don't reward bad companies with your good money!

[vzw_customer_support]

If you need assistance with Message+ please send us a Private Note.

*Carla