Unlocked vs Carrier (T-Mobile) Note20 Ultra - Access program

[JoshuaP]

I was wondering what the differences will be for the Note20 Ultra between the Unlocked version and the T-Mobile Carrier version. From what I read, it looks like hardware is exactly the same.

I usually buy from T-Mobile, but I always thought there were advantages to the unlocked version, is this true, and if so what? or should I just get the carrier version?

Also, does anyone know if the Note20 Ultra will be available on the Subscription Samsung Access program?

[WorldOfDarkness94]

unlocked phones can use any sim card where some networks like Verizon and Sprint use a CDMA type of sim where only their sims work on that phone for use on that network

[Ziltaris]

And some features like WiFi calling will only work on some carrier devices.

[userjp2SYFtFer]

Is there any truth in a T-mobile branded phone is better tuned to its network and will get better reception?

[JoshuaP]

IDK, I would love to know. I also heard you lose RCS and video calling. Would love to know for sure though, granted, we have switched to mainly whatsapp video calling now-a-days.

[userbKPJC4KWfv]

I haven't lost RCS and video calling on my unlocked Note 10 +. 

[JoshuaP]

That is good to know. I may try out the unlocked with the note 20, but keep my note 9 to compare signal, but the 20 will have 5G, so may not be the best comparison, haha.

[Kbarn]

I have the Unlocked note 20 ultra on tmobile. wifi calling and lte calling are working fine but I've lost RCS chat function. A Samsung Support Member told me the note 20 ultra doesn't currently support the Universal Profile 1.0 for RCS yet, but is a planned update (not sure if they actually knew though)

If you get your 20 Ultra and are able to get RCS Chat working could you let me know? I loved it on my note 9 and miss it.

[RJCNKC80]

If you download Google Messages, RCS will work on your unlocked Note 20 Ultra on T-Mobile.

[JohnLoose · Accepted solution]

@JoshuaP @userbKPJC4KWfv @userjp2SYFtFer 

• The hardware should be the same.
• The firmware version and updates will differ as carriers work on those themselves.
• Unlocked devices also are freer of "Bloatware".

I don't like being locked in so don't choose locked devices, but you can learn more below:

• https://www.tomsguide.com/reference/what-is-an-unlocked-phone
• https://www.androidauthority.com/unlocked-phones-vs-carrier-phones-1023517/
• https://www.cnet.com/how-to/unlocked-phones-vs-locked-ones-everything-you-need-to-know/

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