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Lumia 950 and 950 XL (or some variant)

genegh

Just contacted Verizon and was told the following

I show that we are going to get the phones but there is not a release date yet.

[Full chat transcript removed as per Verizon Wireless Terms of Service ]

So it looks promising that something will be happening soon. When? We'll just have to wait and see.

Thanks Verizon for not making me leave for AT&T.

Comments

primortal

Take this with a small grain of salt. I've lost count of how many times via chat or actually speaking with support that they tell misleading information. We just have to wait for an official response from VZW or Microsoft.

Tidbits

The rep said the truth, but people are putting specifics when the rep speaks general terms.

Yes Verizon is getting phones with no release dates. What phones are there? You may be talking specifically windows phone but that response sounds in general.

Tidbits

Like Primo says. I don't understand why people always ask the lowest of the totem pole for information. They'll always be last to know and they never know about any new devices UNTIL they get training on it. If they get training on it there would be a press release about the product.

genegh

Absolutely correct primortal and Tidbits!

I was just wanting to point out something promising (never wanted to imply this as fact). One thing I didn't post of the original conversation was the part that specifically called out Lumia 950 and 950 XL.

Thanks,

Gene

sonkel

I too am a long time Verizon customer and very much would like to see Verizon truly support WPs. If they don't come out with something this fall (either the Lumia 950 or something akin to it), I will be switching carriers.

tiggerddw

I too am a long time Verizon that will move to ATT if a 900 or 1000 series Windows phone is not carried on Verizon. I have carried a Windows phone since the first windows 7 phone Verizon offered. I do not want to give 5 lines to ATT

JBass3

Even if Verizon chooses not to sell these awsome looking phones directly in-store does this ruleout using an unlocked version on their network. Lumia 928

genegh

Some interesting news from ZDnet.com. Here's what I walked away with:

AT&T has no exclusive deal regarding the Lumia 950 and 950 XL
AT&T is only reporting plans to carry the 950 right now
Microsoft may have purposely not provided carrier details during the event because they don't know who will or won't carry the phones

So my guess is that Verizon will play the "wait-and-see" game, watching AT&T's adoption rate before deciding to jump in. The only way I see Verizon carrying one or both phones, is if Microsoft ponies up some money (or other incentive) in exchange for getting Verizon on board.

All of us Windows fans just don't provide enough of an economic incentive to get Verizon help us out.:smileysad:

Source: If Microsoft builds it, will carriers come? Not for the Lumia 950 and 950 XL | ZDNet

sinatra_33

I too am a long tim VZW member, over a decade. However, if they do not provide me with a newer WP soon, I am switching carriers. This is ridiculous. I don't want to be 'pushed' to an iphone. I can do everything with my (nokia) lumia phone..then it broke and I had to get a htc which sucks. The camera is not at all good or comparable to what I had. :smileysad: I hope they announce it soon.. I'm due for an upgrade!!!

47seijar

The Lumia 735 is available right now at a very compelling price.

Brink04

I have been waiting almost a year for a flagship windows phone. If they cannot provide on Verizon, I will be taking my money and accounts elsewhere.

jnewton3D

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.

Alexvrb

The 735 is a good phone but it's not really comparable to the new flagships. If you're truly in the market for a 950/950XL/similar I don't think you'll be cross shopping with the 735. :smileyhappy:

npsofmpls

I am getting really tired of Verizon email me about telling me I have a phone ready for swapping out. I have a Lumia Icon, do you have something as good or better? Nope! Verizon needs to off the Lumia 950 and XL, I would update my phone once they get these. I even tweeted at Verizon about the Lumia 950 XL. I refuse to get an iPhone and I don't care for the Android OS. Come on Verizon, step up to the plate.

SickFreak

Yea, I get those e-mails for the android and even iPhones too. But when any Windows Phone, like the Icon, came out for VZW, did I ever get an e-mail announcement that it was available? NOPE!

topher36

I really don't want to switch carriers, but if I can't buy a Lumia 950 or 950XL and use it on Verizon, then I will be forced to go to AT&T. I don't necessary need Verizon to sell them directly (although it would be nice), but I just want them to work on the network. Make it happen Verizon.

kevinnoland

Add another person to the list of frustrated consumers. Verizon and Microsoft have a terrible working relationship that has cost us the opportunity to get the best of the Windows phones.

Verizon, please listen to those of us who want to own the 950 Lumias. If you don't want to sell them, allow us to buy them unlocked from Microsoft and use them on our network.

I'm already paying more for Verizon than I would with the other carriers. Not allowing the 950 to work might just be the final push I need to leave for someone who will give me what I want.

Yamatatsu

If Verizon doesn't offer the new Lumia 950 then when I return from my Jordan trip in December, I am moving to AT&T. I will pay more for international data and voice on AT&T but at least I will have the cellphone that "I" want.

ScubaCPA

Agreed. I have been with Verizon Wireless since the old name. I have an iPhone 4S which badly needs to be replaced. I have been holding off waiting for the new Windows10 phones. If Verizon does not carry it I will have to switch to AT&T (3 phones in my plan). I hate to do that since Verizon has much better coverage in my area.

Tidbits

Microsoft isn't talking to other carriers. They may be interested but MS isn't talking so there seems to be some sort of exclusivity regardless if MS says or not. If they are not going to talk how are they going to get other carriers on board?

http://pocketnow.com/2015/10/09/microsoft-lumia-950-att-exclusivity

genegh

When I first read the article you posted, I couldn't believe it...but darnit, it's true.

http://www.phonearena.com/news/Microsoft-admits-that-other-U.S.-carriers-besides-AT-T-wanted-the-new-Lumia-models_id74580

Cliff Notes: The article basically states that MS is getting rid of the Lumia line in favor of Surface phones. Furthermore, that "the speculation is that Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and Surface VP Panos Panay want to reset Microsoft's mobile division, ridding the unit of anything that reminds them of the previous regime, including Lumia phones. Behind the scenes, Panay is rumored to be working on a Surface phone that would include PixelSense pressure sensitive touch inputs."

Source: PhoneAreana

PaulFenoglio

I totally agree with the comments asking for Verizon to carry the 950.

Customer1234567

Yea, Verizon reps, oh, it must be true !

Truth is, they don't have access to this information till there was a press statement about it. When you know, they will know. Over the 15 years, it's been dozens of times where I was told information from a VERY NICE rep, that was 100% wrong, Or talk to 3 different reps (store, online and calling in) and get 3 different stories on some things.

Most of Verizon's reps information comes from other reps or what WE all can read about on WC or other WP related sites, only referring to rumored or upcoming phones.

Till Verizon or Microsoft makes an official statement (or a Microsoft rep leaks it), I would take this info with a 100% grain of salt... Just not true...maybe at this point.

I hope they do carry the 950XL but, I have a feeling I am going to have to move to AT&T or TMOUS to get it.. I remember when the Luima 900 came out to AT&T only, and we were in the same boat...

VzwAndMyLife

It's the 950XL or carrier change so.......hope they get it.

Tidbits

Carrier change. Already confirmed MS isn't talking to any carrier. AT&T or unlocked is your choices.

FXi

Probably just playing for time, like the 1520 that never arrived. AT&T demonstrates outright that they prefer our business. Pretty large credit too, for switching and getting the phones we want (win win!)

terrykeeler57

I am a 25+ year AT&T customer, in the early years it wasn't called AT&T, anyway I never changed carriers they just kept changing the name. I am seriously thinking of changing to Verizon because AT&T is shrinking their rural coverage. Places I have used my phone in Eastern Oregon for most all of those years I found last year wouldn't work, zilch...nothing. I thought there was something wrong with my phone, even did a hard reset still nothing. When I got home I checked the coverage maps and sure enough no more AT&T coverage in that area. Everyone else I was with was using their Verizon phones just fine. I currently have a Lumia 920 (since 11/2012) and love the phone and would like the 950 or 950XL but not from AT&T. Need to do something soon as I believe the battery in mine is failing and the LED for the camera flash quit some months ago.

JaxJohn

I hope that it's true to Verizon will get the 950 and 950XL. Undoubtedly the best phone on the market now (soon). Enough that I am considering switching to AT&T and moving my whole company to them so we can better integrate with our Win 10 system that we are upgrading to. I've been with Verizon for 20 years and moved one multi-billion company to them completely. I hope it's not time to rethink that decision.

tradeintrick

Verizon reportedly blocking new Microsoft Lumia 950 and 950 XL phones from their network | Windows Central

As Thurrott and Foley note, Microsoft is trying their best to these phones into user's hands, but the company is facing many obstacles. Having the largest carrier in the US shun Microsoft is a big blow, but should not be surprising. In the past, Verizon has requested exclusive phones like the Lumia 928, Lumia Icon and Lumia 735 only to promote them half-heartedly after months of delays for approval.

For what it is worth, Verizon has done similar things in the past. The Nexus 7 and Nexus 5 have also had the same issue with Verizon's network.

If true, Verizon's actions appear to be more of spite than technological. Windows Central is reaching out to Verizon for comment on the matter, and we'll update this article if we received a response on the matter.

FXi

Well no 1520 for VZ is shame on VZ

No 950/XL on VZ shame on me if I'm not smart enough to seek out a new carrier.

You'd have thought after the debacle (later turned huger profit win) that was VZ's dragging their heels on the iPhone they would have the good sense to stick with it. But attitudes in stores and the polite but vague press releases are the real story. "We never told MS that" simply means they never made a written statement to said effect. But from high fees to lengthy delays, VZ feels that Win Phone is too much bother to be on board. Remember that updates were last Fall (2014) delayed because they claimed the update harmed "VZ Navigator" functionality. See what business they are trying to protect? And the customers they are trying to serve? Just like the iPhone it appears that ATT will have to show VZ how you foster a product from weak beginnings to flagship status (like the iPhone). It takes years and it takes effort. So as those CDMA networks fade and LTE is on everyone's tower, what will VZ offer? Will they lead or will they let others take the reins and show them how to produce a future flagship product?

With the news on the 950/XL, it appears they have no ability to lead.

Tidbits

That article is so wrong. If people actually read open access and read the FCC documentation they will find it is in fact technological as well as Verizon has nothing to do with it. People will also find the who ECID argument is out the window from 4 years ago. Verizon switched over to the authentication system that AT&T and T-Mobile uses...

tradeintrick

Let us look and see.

msgtrain

I will get the lumia 950 and if Verizon does not offer it I will have to move on to a different carrier! I have been with version for over 16 years and won't hesitate to move but as big of a company they are they should give us these options!

Tidbits

Do it now. There's already enough information out saying it isn't going to happen. Especially the FCC filings for the phone.

SickFreak

A little hard to do it now... but in a few days/weeks. We are still waiting on the phones to become available.

chris_windows

If Verizon can't lead the industry with new technology, IE: cutting edge phones, what is their value? all of the networks have similar coverage. Verizon's once awesome customer service looks more like AT&T everyday... Over 10-years a customer & they once again, block new phones (Nokia 920/928, Apple I-6, etc. etc.), this might be the end of it for me.....

tradeintrick

You are a real fan of Windows Phone.

glennhalm

I too am a long time Verizon customer (22 years), but I will move all eight of my lines if they don't support the Lumia 950XL. I use Windows, period.

Tidbits

Cya later. It isn't happening any time soon.

dexman

Microsoft never submitted the 950s for CDMA certification. The company only certified the phones for GSM and Microsoft later admitted that it was limiting the distribution of the 950s.

This is leading to speculation that the next iteration of Windows Mobile phones...which should be wholly designed by Microsoft...should be able to function on Verizon Wireless's network as long as Microsoft submits the phones for proper certification and pays all required licensing fees.

47seijar

Instead of folks complaining that Verizon won't make a deal with Microsoft to get a CDMA version of the 950, I'd like to see Microsoft step up and make a Lumia 950 that includes ALL the bands necessary for both CDMA and GSM. Apple does it with the iPhone. Microsoft is the 800 lb. gorilla in the room, and if they're serious about revitalizing WP as a mobile platform they need to take the lead and act like they're serious. It's really not Verizon's job to advocate for a platform or brand. Verizon responds to NUMBERS, and right now Windows Phone doesn't have the numbers. So Microsoft should be pushing their new offerings across all carriers, attracting users, and thereby attracting developers.

Microsoft, the ball is in your court!

FXi

I can't tell you how much misgiving I have. I want to be hopeful as I've been with VZ for a few decades plus. But maybe that's my mistake. We had a literal FCC picture of the 1520 coming to VZ and that failed. So what we get told it "might" be coming (zero official btw so it's all avoidable if the don't feel like it) and users sit and wait when there are devices they want to use right now? This feels like some bait to keep me around, and if it looks like a duck...

If this were truly motiving VZ you'd have a deal in days. MS and VZ are big kids they know how to sort this out with a few remote meetings, and a few internal memo's to manufacturing and distribution. VZ has plenty of automated internal testing systems to insure this system works well and if they are not currently trying out Win 10 mobile preview well then they aren't ready and that still tells me not to stay. They should know better, and they do.

Now if this is a supply side issue, MS needs to get themselves in gear too. This isn't a single sided issue. But if ATT is ready now, then these things have been in motion a while and it kind of says who is the more capable vendor. These devices are going worldwide, so it's probably not a supply issue. I really do enjoy VZ's expertise and service (all aspects of it). But if the best you can do is deliver that service in a Yugo, while ATT is ready to service my Porsche right now, then that service has very limited value. I can come back when your mechanics and your garage are capable of servicing the vehicle I want to use day to day. Nothing says I can't switch back, but you'd have to make a pretty strong argument as to why I would pay you in the meantime to use a Yugo...

MobileGeek42

Yes, take this with a small grain of salt. I have a transcript with a Verizon Wireless customer support person that made promises to me that never came to be. I called back after a week and spoke to someone for nearly an hour trying to resolve it. I was left with a supposed email address to continue work with someone on the issue. I'm sure the emails were sent straight to the trashcan.

I have no problem switching to AT&T. Verizon isn't all that anymore. AT&T is good enough and less expensive for me anyway.

MobileGeek42

Microsoft did make the phone with CDMA, but have to disable it to avoid confusion. Verizon will not authorize the phones on their network, as they will not register the MEIDs, even if you go buy your own device at the Microsoft store.

http://www.technobuffalo.com/2015/10/18/verizon-reportedly-blocking-microsofts-new-lumia-950-and-950-xl/

http://www.ibtimes.com/microsoft-lumia-950-lumia-950-xl-release-update-verizon-might-block-devices-its-2146053

I've worked directly with Verizon Wireless in the past through partnerships with my prior companies. They are a bunch arrogant Sons-of-guns. I use to attend conferences regularly in San Diego some years ago when "GET IT NOW" was the thing. It was unreal how incredibly condescending they behaved towards people. Everything was about more for them and less for everyone else, even though everyone else was flipping 100% of the bill and effort to bring great things to folks on the phones. They were gonna get their cut, no matter what, for simply being them.

OutlawFirebird1

Need unlocked phones on Verizon, I'm done buying there branded phones that they stop supporting after a few months.

andyjackoradam

Sorry if this is repeat info - but B&H Photo lists the 950 XL for pre-order and they are very explicit in excluding Verizon's bands from the compatibility list and excluding Verizon from the list of carriers (at least as of the date of this post).

I really don't think there's much question that these phones are not going to be usable on Verizon. I can hold on to my Icon until 1st quarter 2016 and see if MS pushes out a Surface phone, but if there's no solid evidence I don't know what I'll do. Already tried going back to android - that sucked for the 2 weeks I gave it.

What a waste.

dexman

I think at this point, the inability to use the 550 & 950s on Verizon Wireless and Sprint has been well documented.

I'm holding off upgrading until I get a sense of weather or not Microsoft will be creating the Surface Phone and weather or not there will be compatibility with Verizon Wireless.

If either answer is no, I'll spring for a 735.

bgoodbody

I have read that we may not have to wait long to find out about the 950 XL. That is the 950 959XL may become available Friday.

So far complete silence on VZW.

There is no word on a Surface phone, maybe next April?

SickFreak

bgoodbody wrote:

I have read that we may not have to wait long to find out about the 950 XL. That is the 950 959XL may become available Friday.

So far complete silence on VZW.

There is no word on a Surface phone, maybe next April?

AT&T has already announced that they'll have the 950 available on 20 Nov. No official word yet if they'll also carry the XL, but the MSFT stores will have both starting the 20th.

dstrack

I just chatted with a Rep who stated that while he does not know if VZW will sell the phones directly if you buy an unlocked version they will in fact work on VZW network without limitation.

primortal

dstrack wrote:

I just chatted with a Rep who stated that while he does not know if VZW will sell the phones directly if you buy an unlocked version they will in fact work on VZW network without limitation.

That's the $60k question. Microsoft choose not to enable the necessary bands on the 950's to work with VZW network plus the reps statement is partially true in that VZW needs to add the device IMEI to their database as well.

dstrack

Well... here's to hoping. I just pre-ordered the 950XL. Free returns in case it doesn't work.

primortal

I'll tell you right now is to cancel the order. The 950XL WILL NOT work as it stand on VZW network.

andyjackoradam

Just gonna tag along with @primortal and @dexman - the 950 XL will not work on Verizon as it is currently offered. Unless MS enables the CDMA bands needed and Verizon acknowledges the IMEI, this is all a bit pollyanna-ish. Its really just a dead issue.

I really want it too and it makes me a bit sick to acknowledge it, but there it is. I've thought about going to a MS store and buying one, tossing my SIM in and watching it fail, but I don't think I really need to. And I'd certainly love someone else to prove me wrong, but I don't expect it.

jmachats

I think Verizon lied to you

It's officially on AT&T - you should think about switching

Lumia 950 goes on sale from AT&T online on Nov. 17, in stores on Nov. 20 | Windows Central

bgoodbody

Time to move to AT&T!

BB10Refugee

Getting tired of this device game being played either by the manufacturer or these massive carriers who have lost touch with the customer. First left USCC for BB10, then BB abandons BB10 for Bloid, while there's no newer BB10 devices available (Passport) on VZW. Now looking to switch to Windows phone, 950XL, and run into the same BS. This is just getting flat out ridiculous.

VZW, get off your high horse, MSFT, get with it as well, and get the consumers out here the devices they want! We should only have to switch devices, not carriers every time we want/need to upgrade!

FormField

I have pre-ordered two unlocked 950XL's for me and my wife. I'll be taking my business to AT&T. I will never, EVER buy into a branded handset again. I will never sit on my hands while I wait for them to release firmware and updates for MY DEVICE. Their complete disregard for their customers and partners is astonishing.

Customers want, expect and deserve choice and support. Whether they like it or not, wireless service is a commodity. If they want to treat customers like we are slaves to the network, I will treat them like a bag of flour. The grass is not greener with AT&T or T-Mobile. They are packed to the gills with just as many idiots as there are at Verizon.

I'm buying unlocked and moving to AT&T because they won't DISRUPT support from the handset manufacturer and the single largest software company in the world. My expectations for wireless service are SO LOW that I consider it to be a bonus if my wireless provider stops acting like a carrier overlord.

If that isn't eye opening to Verizon and the wireless industry in general, I don't know what would be. They wouldn't have to do much to keep my business. Just maintain the network, work with partners to offer device and platform choice, cash the checks and GET OUT OF THE WAY.

For anyone else in the same situation, don't torture yourself any longer than need be. Find another provider, buy your next device off contract and unlocked and never look back. I would be SHOCKED if Verizon cares about whether you stay or leave. If I'm wrong, all the better but I wouldn't count on it.

pherson

Ok.... bye

Pynt

As a .NET developer, and employee at an institution with several thousand Microsoft devices I was excitedly awaiting the new WP10 devices myself. I'll be joining you in the exodus to ATT which is by far not my favorite company, but with the changes to the .NET and Windows ecosystem going to an open source setup where my code will now function on Windows, Linux, and Mac with easy porting from WP10 to iPhone when app developing I can't justify sticking with a provider that provides me with zero benefit other than another android device that drops support after 6 months. Verizon is also engaging in cherry picking like ATT used to do. They've sold their towers to ATT or let the land leases expire such that other carriers have picked up the slack. They seem to be focusing on the economies of scale in the larger cities rather than maintaining the great network they'd built up whereas ATT seems to be spreading again and becoming more dominant in our rural areas. Over a decade of service with Verizon and guess I'll be moving to a carrier that will cater to my work needs. Going to let the dust settle a bit and get reviews from active Lumia users regardless. Maybe Verizon will get off their asses and fix the issue.

FXi

I appreciate the insight you give into the matter. I've been noticing as well that VZ and ATT seem to be switching places in terms of rural coverage, and more "tests" seem to be noticing this fact. Supercookies that muck with VPN hotspot communications is another sign that ATT (which tried the idea and stopped) seems to be taking the higher ground on "customer first". I note that many other services targeting mobile users are finding it easier to roll out on ATT and are doing so "first". I'll see how the reviews and user experiences pan out and if VZ manages to accomplish a retake on their current position (regarding windows phone flagships) soon. If not, whether because ATT grabbed the ball first, or because they are uninterested won't really matter. I'll give them a short time and the devices being out and used by the masses a bit of time and then it's time to switch. I know a lot of corporate folks in a wide variety of companies who are fine with ATT as a vendor, so I don't think it'll be much of a problem.

Thanks for your insightful commentary and sensible business view

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