Do Vodacom "network lock" devices

J

JohnWal

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Hey guys,

I've been a Vodacom customer for a couple of years. However, around 3 years ago I opted to get out of "handset included" contracts and rather save up and buy the phone I wanted, and just stay in basic contracts with SP.

Anyway, I had a mishap with my S3, which I then subsequently replaced with an S4, which I bought from Vodacom cash.

Now, here's my question, when I start up the device, it shows a vodacom splash screen. Is the device network locked?

I just want to make sure as I dont want to sign up with another SP and then I have issues.
 
Last edited:
No, that's just operator bloatware. You might find some vodacom apps installed.
 
No, network locking devices is illegal in RSA.
All you are seeing is a customized version of Samsung firmware.

Network locked means using an MTN sim in the phone wouldn't work.
 
igi said:
best is to borrow a sim-card from a friend to test for 5 minutes.
that's all it takes.
:)
Click to expand...

No I think they still lock them. I know cause my one phone is one of them.
My Motorola Microtac 8200 I tried to use the other day (works perfectly even after almost 20 years) but will only work with a Vodascum sim card.

Sucks totally.
I even called the help desk to find out how to unlock it but they were all too stupid even the manager didn't know how or even what my problem was !!! - Vodacom employ total idiots these days that don't know what you talking about.
 
ArchStanton said:
No I think they still lock them. I know cause my one phone is one of them.
My Motorola Microtac 8200 I tried to use the other day (works perfectly even after almost 20 years) but will only work with a Vodascum sim card.
Click to expand...

You claim they still network lock devices ... and a brick is your proof? :erm: lol?

Please tell me you are joking.
 
Pho3nix said:
No, network locking devices is illegal in RSA.
All you are seeing is a customized version of Samsung firmware.

Network locked means using an MTN sim in the phone wouldn't work.
Click to expand...
If only.
 
ld13 said:
You claim they still network lock devices ... and a brick is your proof? :erm: lol?

Please tell me you are joking.
Click to expand...

Nope it is locked. Only works on Vodacom pal.
So they have not changed their policy - not in my case anyway.
 
Is it possible it was not network controlled via IMEI or anything because that is the feeling i'm getting.

Vodacom actually messed with the firmware on the handsets themselves they sold us to block other networks ?
Is that possible and would Motorola allow it? If so then i'm screwed ever trying to get it to work on CellC right ?
 
Hmm, I put my CellC card in an even older MicroTac 7200 (same battery I only have 1 that works).
It says I'm connected to Vodacom - and it WORKS!
Now I'm confused!
 
ArchStanton said:
Hmm, I put my CellC card in an even older MicroTac 7200 (same battery I only have 1 that works).
It says I'm connected to Vodacom - and it WORKS!
Now I'm confused!
Click to expand...

I'm confused about why you would be confused about that... your phone is simply roaming on Vodacom, nothing odd about that?
 
ld13 said:
I'm confused about why you would be confused about that... your phone is simply roaming on Vodacom, nothing odd about that?
Click to expand...

Well it is not a Vodacom card - why would it be roaming if i'm in SA?
Would I be paying a fortune if I made a long call to another local number?
Shouldn't it say i'm connected to cellc like my other phone says right next to me!
 
Have you put a CellC or MTN card in your phone and the display says " VODACOM-SA"
That can't be right....
 
Ahh, it seems after quick google, Cell-C don't have 900mhz (all the old phones had) and piggy-back off the other networks.
Hope they have some deal with them - I don't want to pay roaming chargers within my own country.....
 
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