New android phone, which carrier version.

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andrewNZ

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#204269 24-Sep-2016 12:02

I have very limited experience with android and so far hate it. I'm hoping it's down to a terrible phone (galaxy xcover) supplied by work. However, I'm probably getting the missus a Galaxy A5.

So which variant to pick? Spark, 2Degrees, or Vodafone.
I'm assuming the variants are mostly to do with the pre-installed branding and bloat. Is there any reason to get (or not) a particular carrier variant?

Jase2985

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#1639828 24-Sep-2016 12:27

could also be to do with the frequencies used. ie a Spark phone will use 850mhz and 2100mhz where as the voda/2d will use 900 and 2100mhz for 3g so the phone may not work in some locations

tripp

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#1639829 24-Sep-2016 12:29

Spark, and then flash the XSA firmware from AU on it :)

XSA is non branded firmware so updates are faster.

richms

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#1639853 24-Sep-2016 13:30

Store availability for returning it to is about the only concern. If you are near a mall with all stores then it shouldnt matter, but if one of them is out of your way, and its only a couple of bucks less then you have to ask if its worth the hassle.

Richard rich.ms