Unlocking Sony Tablet?

[Dockhead]

Anyone have experience with this? Is it difficult and/or costly?

The reason why I ask is this -- I need a Sony Android tablet to use with GoFree. I would like for it to have built-in GPS just in case I want to use it with another nav program, but this involves a huge premium for the LTE (vs the wifi) version.

It occurred to me that a locked one could be ideal for me, since I almost never use data cards in my tablets anyway.

But just in case I ever want to unlock it -- what does that involved these days? I have unlocked IPhones for friends but remember that this got harder and harder with later generations -- is it the same with Android?

Grateful for your tips.

[Cormorant]

I think I've seen the Sony Xperia Z3 LTE tablet sold as "factory unlocked." Could you get one of those?

[Dockhead]

Originally Posted by Cormorant

I think I've seen the Sony Xperia Z3 LTE tablet sold as "factory unlocked." Could you get one of those?

Sure, but nearly twice the price.

[Wrong]

Originally Posted by Dockhead

Anyone have experience with this? Is it difficult and/or costly?

The reason why I ask is this -- I need a Sony Android tablet to use with GoFree. I would like for it to have built-in GPS just in case I want to use it with another nav program, but this involves a huge premium for the LTE (vs the wifi) version.

It occurred to me that a locked one could be ideal for me, since I almost never use data cards in my tablets anyway.

But just in case I ever want to unlock it -- what does that involved these days? I have unlocked IPhones for friends but remember that this got harder and harder with later generations -- is it the same with Android?

Grateful for your tips.

Looks like a full featured device. But, with a 4.3" display I'd seriously consider whether it will be suitable for some marine applications. Especially if charting and navigation are concerned.

Check out XDA-Developers for steps to unlock the device. I'm sure if it's doable you'll find your answer there.

Here's a how to video... Sony Shows How to Unlock the Bootloader on Xperia Devices - XDA Forums

[Dockhead]

Originally Posted by Wrong

Looks like a full featured device. But, with a 4.3" display I'd seriously consider whether it will be suitable for some marine applications. Especially if charting and navigation are concerned.

Check out XDA-Developers for steps to unlock the device. I'm sure if it's doable you'll find your answer there.

Here's a how to video... Sony Shows How to Unlock the Bootloader on Xperia Devices - XDA Forums

You're confusing the tablet with the phone. This is the tablet. 10" screen. Waterproof!

Sent from my D6633 using Cruisers Sailing Forum mobile app

[madsb]

Reading your first post it seems as if you think you need the LTE version to get GPS reception. That is not the case. In contrast to Ipads most Android Tablets have GPS receivers even if they, don't have any 3G/4G connectivity.

[Dockhead]

Originally Posted by madsb

Reading your first post it seems as if you think you need the LTE version to get GPS reception. That is not the case. In contrast to Ipads most Android Tablets have GPS receivers even if they, don't have any 3G/4G connectivity.

Really!!!

I thought the GPS modules were part of the phone modules. What a shame!

[Dockhead]

Originally Posted by Dockhead

Really!!!

I thought the GPS modules were part of the phone modules. What a shame!

And I just checked, and you're right!!

[Ryan H]

I've had really terrific luck with my Sony Xperia S. The GPS is great with the marine navigator software and you can pick up the matching docking station off Amazon for 30$ (was 120$) that includes three USB ports plus an HTMI port. The Xperia S has a 9.4" display, its waterproof, has a full size SD card slot, decent processor, doesn't have 3g access but the Wi-Fi works great and mine doesn't have any trouble at all tethering with PDA net, I stream from Hulu all the time.. It's an older model now so you can probably pick one up cheap.

I swear I don't have stock on the company, just really happy with my tablet.

Sent from my C6730 using Cruisers Sailing Forum mobile app

[Richard_W]

Originally Posted by madsb

Reading your first post it seems as if you think you need the LTE version to get GPS reception. That is not the case. In contrast to Ipads most Android Tablets have GPS receivers even if they, don't have any 3G/4G connectivity.

Same with iPads ... YOU DO NOT NEED CELL SERVICE TO HAVE GPS RECIVER AND FUNCTIONALITY WORKING. You need cell capable iPad just because the GPS and cell hardware happens to be on the same chipset, but you do not even need to activate SIM for the GPS to work ... just a clear view of GPS satellites ...