When Verizon released a statement on Tuesday explaining its position on the locked bootloader that graces its Galaxy S3, it left quite a number of users annoyed. What was more problematic was that the carrier did little to explain why it was taking this action with the Galaxy S3, while the Galaxy Nexus and previous Samsung Androids on the carrier faced no such restriction.
However, as it turns out, there will be a unique solution to this whole bootloader problem, with Samsung announcing a special unlocked Galaxy S3 Developer Edition for Verizon users. So, in other words, in order to get your devices unlocked, you will need to get a whole new GS3. Sounds Interesting?
As per the previous statement released by the carrier, “Verizon Wireless has established a standard of excellence in customer experience with our branded devices and customer service. There is an expectation that if a customer has a question, they can call Verizon Wireless for answers that help them maximize their enjoyment and use of their wireless phone. Depending on the device, an open boot loader could prevent Verizon Wireless from providing the same level of customer experience and support because it would allow users to change the phone or otherwise modify the software and, potentially, negatively impact how the phone connects with the network.”
“The addition of unapproved software could also negatively impact the wireless experience for other customers. It is always a delicate balance for any company to manage the technology choices we make for our branded devices and the requests of a few who may want a different device experience. We always review our technology choices to ensure that we provide the best solution for as many customers as possible,” it further adds.
Unlike the standard version GS3 from Verizon Wireless, the Dev version won’t be available on-contract with subsidies. What this means is that the only way to pick one up will be by going through Samsung directly, and paying the full $600 retail price.
The smartphone maker has actually made it pretty clear that if you are planning to mess around with this Dev GS3 with some non-Samsung software, the manufacturer isn’t liable for providing you any warranty coverage.
However, there’s no word yet on just when Samsung will open sales of the Galaxy S3 Developer Edition for Verizon. Stay tuned for more updates
