Top 6 Ways to Fix Picture-In-Picture Mode Not Working on Android

Google Is Silently Blocking RCS On Rooted Android Phones And Custom ROMs (Update)

TL;DR

Users who have rooted their phone, have their bootloader unlocked or are using some custom ROMs report that their RCS messages are not being sent, even though RCS shows them as connected.

The Google Messages app does not show any error messages when blocking RCS messages of these users and does not send the messages out as SMS or MMS either.

Google famously campaigned for Apple to include RCS messaging in iMessage but is now blocking it for certain Android users.

Update: March 1, 2024 (12:35 PM ET): A spokesperson from Google has reached out to Android Authority and provided the following statement:

– Ensuring that message-issuing/receiving devices are following the operating measures defined by the RCS standard is one of the ways Google Messages prevent spam and abuse.

– As we fight spammers and fraudsters, we take into account different indicators. A large volume of RCS spam comes from automation, which typically relies on modifications to the sending device.

– Our spam prevention techniques constantly evolve in response to the changing behavior of spammers. We will continue to look for ways to prevent spam and fraud while minimizing the number of users affected.

Original article: March 1, 2024 (4:46 AM ET): We've all seen Google wax poetically and relentlessly on how RCS messaging is the next best thing since sliced bread and how Apple should adopt the standard on its iPhones to bring a great messaging experience to all users. We agree with the sentiment, and even Apple has committed to including RCS in iMessage this year, likely with the impending iOS 18 update. But as much as Google wants others to use RCS, the company is blocking rooted Android phones and custom ROM users from using it on their devices.

Many users are complaining on Reddit (h/t Mishaal Rahman) that Google is quietly blocking RCS messages on rooted devices and custom ROMs. More specifically, it appears that Google has begun implementing Play Integrity API attestation checks (popularly known as "SafetyNet checks," inspired by the predecessor SafetyNet API) on the Google Messages app.

Heads up: Users are reporting that the Google Messages app won't let them send or receive RCS messages if the OS is rooted or hasn't passed GMS certification (like most custom ROMs).

The Play Integrity API and the predecessor SafetyNet API are both anti-abuse APIs that check for the integrity of the Android device. If an Android device is tampered with in any way, such as having its bootloader unlocked for installing a custom ROM or is rooted, these APIs throw up an error. Apps that check for this error can recognize that the device is not in stock condition and can react accordingly, often refusing to work.

The most logical intended usage for this is for high-security requirement apps, such as banking apps. Still, there has been a growing trend of relatively low-security requirement apps also using these checks. This leads to locking out rooted phones and phones with custom ROMs on vague grounds.

With Google Messages, Google isn't even throwing up any error that the user is locked out of RCS. In the video above, RCS appears enabled (as seen in the chat text box), but messages being sent simply disappear into thin air. The messages are not going through as SMS/MMS fallback either unless you switch off RCS features.

You might blame your phone or carrier for this behavior, not realizing that Google is blocking RCS from working on your phone without clearly explaining its reasons. Users have had to investigate the issue independently to find out about SafetyNet checks on the Google Messages app.

Google mentions to 9to5Google that some of those phones are prevented from using RCS, citing the need to prevent spam and abuse by making sure devices abide by the RCS standard's "operating measures."

SMS and MMS continue working on rooted phones with unlocked bootloaders. But they also do on iPhones, so Google's stance does appear quite hypocritical.

If you are savvy enough to root your phone or unlock your bootloader to install a custom ROM, you can bypass the checks with the Play Integrity Fix Magisk module. However, this is a game of cat and mouse, and you'd constantly be fighting against Google for the privilege of sending an RCS text. Maybe it's time for Google to get the message too? In the interim, you can use other messaging apps that support RCS.

We've reached out to Google for more information and a statement. We'll update the article when we hear back from them.

Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at news@androidauthority.Com. You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice. Comments

How To Unlock A Phone On Every Carrier In 2024

When you purchase a cell phone from a carrier, it generally comes locked — meaning it includes a software code that ensures your mobile device connects only to a specific network so you can't get or use a signal with any other service.

Unlocking your phone means that you can switch carriers if you're dissatisfied with the service, move to a different region, are traveling, or want to keep your old handset when you change networks. If you're looking to switch providers or just hoping to add some value when selling your phone, unlocking it is a must. Don't worry — it's completely legal to do.

While most cell phone operators offer unlocking services after you've fully paid off your phone and all installments or your contract term has expired, it doesn't always happen automatically. AT&T, Boost Mobile, Sprint, T-Mobile, Verizon, Virgin Mobile, Xfinity, and many more offer unlocking services. The process can be tedious and differs depending on the provider, so we've broken down the steps for each one. It's generally a good idea to unlock your phone when it goes off-contract. On the Apple side, if you paid for your iPhone in full upon purchase, then it's probably unlocked already. Unlocked phones are generally worth more than locked ones.

What you'll need

Unlocking a phone that's come off contract should be second nature, and you will find it's worth the effort. The difficulty of unlocking a phone can vary based on the carrier, and what is a straightforward process with one can be a pain with another. No matter how challenging the unlocking procedure gets, it's a good idea to unlock your phone before you leave your current carrier because it will likely prove even tougher after your contract has run out. Even if you're not planning on using your old phone when you leave, who knows when you might need it in the future? While procedures vary, there's a list of information you'll generally need to unlock your phone, so you can keep it handy before you start.

Account holder's name and account number

IMEI number of your device

Your phone number

Account holder's Social Security number or password

A completed contract and/or device payment plan

Overseas deployment papers, for military personnel who want to unlock the phone before the contract expires

With that information, here's how each carrier handles unlocking your phone.

Unlocking a Verizon phone Julian Chokkattu/Digital Trends

Just wait. Verizon automatically unlocks its phones 60 days after purchase.

According to Verizon's policy , newly purchased devices are locked to Verizon's networks for 60 days after purchase to help mitigate theft and other fraudulent activity. This rule applies to both postpaid and prepaid devices, and the lock is automatically removed after 60 days. Deployed military are exempt from this rule and can request an unlock during this period by calling Verizon's support line at 800-922-0204.

Past 60 days and your device doesn't seem to have unlocked? Call Verizon's support line at 800-922-0204.

Unlocking an AT&T phone Image used with permission by copyright holder

Unlock your phone via Verizon's unlocking portal once you have completed the following checklist of prerequisites.

The device must work on AT&T's networks.

If you're a current customer, your contract or installment plan must be fully paid off (including early termination fees). If not, pay off your plan early and wait 48 hours before making a request.

It must not have been reported lost, stolen, or involved in fraud.

The account must be in "good standing" — not associated with fraudulent activity.

On a postpaid account, it must have been active for at least 60 days, with "no past due or unpaid balance."

If it's an AT&T prepaid device, it must be in service for at least six months.

If it's a business device and you've upgraded early, you must wait for the 30-day "buyer's remorse" period to end before unlocking your old phone.

If it's a business device, then you must have your company's permission.

For military personnel, email AT&T your TCS or PCS (temporary/permanent change of station) documents to unlock before your contract or payments end.

Unlock instructions and codes provided by AT&T vary depending on the device. Apple iPhones don't need an unlock code. Instead, after receiving the email approving your unlock request, just remove your AT&T SIM card and insert the SIM card for your new carrier to begin the setup process. Military members can unlock iPhones, including those on installment plans, but must register active-duty status when filling out AT&T's forms.

Unlocking a T-Mobile phone Image used with permission by copyright holder

Unlock your phone via T-Mobile's unlocking portal once you have completed the following checklist of prerequisites.

T-Mobile may well be the Un-carrier, but it has some very similar criteria for unlocking to other carriers. T-Mobile now sends you a notification when your phone is ready to be unlocked, but there are some eligibility requirements you need to be aware of. Here's what you'll need to keep in mind if you want to unlock your T-Mobile phone :

It must be a T-Mobile device.

It must not have been reported lost, stolen, or blocked (via IMEI).

It must be attached to an account that is in "good standing."

On postpaid accounts, the device must have been fully paid for and have been active for at least 40 days on the requesting line.

On prepaid accounts, the device must have had more than $100 in refills since the first use date or have been active for at least a year. It also needs to have been purchased over 14 days ago.

If using T-Mobile's Equipment Instalment Plan, or if your phone is leased through JUMP! On Demand, all payments must be made, and the device must be fully paid for.

You've made fewer than two unlock requests, per line, in the last 12 months.

T-Mobile may request to see proof of purchase.

Many Android phones from the carrier can be unlocked through their settings menus once eligibility requirements are met. Others, such as the Google Pixel and older Samsung devices, can use Device Unlock apps from T-Mobile. However, these methods are not compatible with all phones. The iPhone, in particular, does not have an iOS version of the T-Mobile unlocking app.

T-Mobile should send unlock notifications to your iPhone once it is eligible and may send you an unlock code. If you don't have this information, contact T-Mobile directly and ask for it. Consult this T-Mobile page for specific instructions regarding your Apple device.

You can otherwise unlock your phone through a live chat with a T-Mobile customer representative or by calling 611 from a T-Mobile device or 877-746-0909 from any other phone. Deployed military personnel can also get their phones unlocked as long as they're in good standing and can produce deployment papers.

Unlocking a Metro by T-Mobile phone Image used with permission by copyright holder

Metro by T-Mobile, formerly known as Metro PCS, phones can be unlocked via their unlocking portal once you have completed the following checklist of prerequisites:

It must be from Metro.

It must not be reported as lost, stolen or blocked.

It must have had active service for a minimum of 180 consecutive days (about six months).

If you have a warranty exchanged handset, then the 180 days is based on the activation date of the original phone.

The 180-day service requirement is waived for military personnel — you can visit a corporate store with deployment papers and an agent will provide an unlock code for your device.

One method of unlocking is through the Device Unlock app, usually found in the Metro by T-Mobile folder of your phone. This can be done with most Android smartphones, and only Samsung phones have the ability to unlock through a settings menu. If you have a Samsung phone 2019 or later, head to Settings > Connections > More Connection Settings > Select Network Unlock.

If you have an Apple device, once it becomes eligible, Metro by T-Mobile will automatically authorize, and initiate unlock for your device remotely. To complete the unlock on your device, Verify that your device is eligible to be unlocked, make sure your device is on Wi-Fi, insert a non-T-Mobile SIM card into your iPhone and complete the first-time use. If the device has already been set up, follow the on-screen instructions to sign in to your Apple ID.

Since rebranding, Metro by T-Mobile now operates in the GSM network as opposed to CDMA, so your unlocked Metro phone will only be able to work with other GSM carriers like T-Mobile and AT&T.

How to unlock a U.S. Cellular phone Image used with permission by copyright holder

Most U.S. Cellular phones are sold unlocked. The rest will, generally speaking, unlock automatically after a 120-day lock period.

Since February 1, 2016, most of U.S. Cellular's 4G LTE devices are sold unlocked. Those sold before that date can potentially be updated through an over-the-air update, so make sure your device is up to date before contacting U.S. Cellular about unlocking. If that doesn't apply to your device, or if you have a 3G or 1X device, then you'll need an unlock code from U.S. Cellular's customer service line on 611 (from a U.S. Cellular device) or 888-944-9400 on another device.

Like other carriers, U.S. Cellular's unlocking procedure is fully in-line with CITA's guidelines on unlocking its devices, and will unlock phones and tablets, as long as they adhere to the following criteria:

It must be a device from U.S. Cellular.

The device in question must not have been lost, stolen, or obtained fraudulently.

The device in question must have been fully paid for.

A specific range of popular phones from Apple and Samsung, whether prepaid or postpaid, are subject to a 120-day lock policy to deter theft and fraud. An account in good standing that meets those requirements can still request an early unlock. As is usual, deployed military personnel can also get their device unlocked earlier by presenting their deployment papers, as long as their account has no past-due balance.

U.S. Cellular warns some devices can't be unlocked, either because of the age of the device or because it doesn't have the technology to access other networks. If it sounds like your device might fall under that, you can contact U.S. Cellular on 611 (from a U.S. Cellular device) or 888-944-9400 on another device.

iPhone error message? Here's what to do

You might see this message on your computer or on your iPhone: "The SIM card inserted in this iPhone does not appear to be supported. Only compatible SIM cards from a supported carrier may be used to activate iPhone. Please insert the SIM card that came with your iPhone or visit a supported carrier store." If you see that message, do this:

Since iOS 14, you can check your phone's status. Go to Settings > General > About and scroll down to the section called Carrier Lock section. This section should say No SIM Restrictions. If you don't see that message, then your carrier probably hasn't unlocked your phone yet. Contact your carrier immediately to find out what is going on. This should be enough to get your iPhone properly unlocked, but if you keep having difficulties, you may have to restore your iPhone to factory settings and reboot from a backup.

How to unlock your prepaid or fully paid phone Julian Chokkattu/Digital Trends

There are, of course, folks who have prepaid and paid-in-full devices. Unlocking these is, for the most part, relatively straightforward. While there was already a generalized unlocking policy, the Cellular Telephone Industries Association (CTIA) put forth a set of standardized unlocking policies for cell phones and tablets. The terms require carriers to unlock a phone paid in full, or a prepaid phone in service for a year, if a subscriber requests it. Cellular providers also have to alert subscribers when their handsets are eligible for an unlock. Finally, carriers must unlock phones for U.S. Military personnel upon request.

Metro by T-Mobile, U.S. Cellular, and Verizon have all complied, and AT&T's  policies were already in line with the terms. Unlocking your phone doesn't mean you can just take it to any other provider. While some modern phones are built for that kind of compatibility, others are still only designed for the network capabilities and features of a particular carrier. Most carriers offer an online Bring Your Own Phone tool to see if your unlocked device will work well on their network. You'll just need to enter your device's IMEI number to get an instant check.

Don't forget about third-party lock breakers

These are less needed now all U.S. Networks offer unlocking, but if you encounter problems with an official carrier unlock, you can still opt for an IMEI unlock, which works identically to the official carrier unlock. There are plenty of IMEI unlock companies, but it's best to go with trusted vendors. Check review sites like Trustpilot before making a final decision or paying up. The price to unlock an iPhone varies based on your carrier. Lock breaker services support models from the newest iPhone series all the way back to the iPhone 4.

Most third-party unlocking services operate the same way. From their website, you pay varying amounts, usually under $100, for an email-based unlock code. Most require an upfront payment. Reputable unlocking services have customer support lines and deliver codes quickly.

No luck? Buy an unlocked phone

When all is said and done, the best option for most people is usually purchasing an unlocked phone rather than figuring out how to unlock one. First of all, it saves you the hassle of getting it unlocked. Secondly, you can choose whichever cell phone service you'd like, whether it's prepaid, postpaid, or something in between. It's a significant investment and may hurt a little if you already have a phone, but the freedom to switch carriers at any time is worth it.

Retailers like Amazon and Walmart sell unlocked phones, but often with high upfront costs. However, there are bargains out there if you know where to look. Every iPhone you buy from Apple — either online or from an Apple Store — is unlocked, except for specific carrier financing options. An unlocked iPhone lets you choose any carrier you want. To get started with a new carrier, do the following.

Switch off your iPhone.

Remove the current SIM card from your old carrier.

Insert the new SIM card for your new carrier.

Restart your phone.

Upon restart, follow the on-screen instructions to set up your phone.

You can also buy a SIM-free iPhone, which means your iPhone does not come with a carrier SIM card, which frees you to use a SIM card from any compatible carrier. Since many retailers also offer payment plans now, you don't even need to pay entirely upfront anymore.

If you can't pay in full, consider Apple's iPhone Upgrade Program, where you get an unlocked iPhone in much the same manner as the SIM-free option — though it does require a credit check. Not only do you avoid the upfront cost, but you also get to pay in monthly installments and are eligible for an upgrade after 12 payments. The program includes the AppleCare+ protection program alongside an add-on for AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss protection.

Editors' Recommendations

The Best Cell Phone Deals For March 2024

You'll find all of this week's best cell phone deals neatly lined up and laid out right here on this page. We've included everything here from the cheapest prices on unlocked devices to all the top big-carrier promotions and it's a great time to check in too. Not only do we have some superb cell phone deals on iPhones but the latest Samsung Galaxy S24 range is up for grabs with massive trade-in rebates of up to $1,000 off. 

Cell phone deals: quick links

Generally speaking, you'll find cell phone deals coming in two forms - first as an outright sale on an unlocked device, and secondly as part of a carrier-plan tie-in. The latter can be a bit tricky, involving new cell phone plans and also trade-ins on old devices, but the savings can be absolutely huge if you're eligible. We've also seen many carriers throw in freebies alongside their deals recently as an extra incentive to sign up for those plans.

Which type of cell phone deal should you go for? Well, that will depend on your personal needs. If you're looking for the latest flagship device and an unlimited plan to pair it up with then you'll find great options at carriers like Verizon and AT&T. If you're looking for maximum flexibility or long-term savings, then it's generally better to consider either buying a device unlocked and then weighing up your plan options separately. This isn't a bad idea since there are a number of great prepaid plans on the market right now and there are often bring-your-own-device savings at the major carriers, too.

Note, all of the devices featured on our list have been personally reviewed by the staff here at TechRadar. They're all fantastic picks in their own right and you won't find any sub-par choices included. If you'd like to find out which is best for you we'd recommend checking our updated guide to the best phones for 2024.

Today's best cell phone deals at a glance Carrier phone deals

Verizon - has a whole section of their site dedicated to phone deals

AT&T - also offers a huge range of phone deals

Sprint - currently offering free phones and other great phone deals

If you don't mind switching carriers, you can find many of the best smartphone deals from the big four. The major carriers will often let you split the cost of the phone into monthly payments anywhere from 18 to 30 months, and sometimes longer. The deals they offer frequently cut the price of the phone in half, sometimes even offering the phone for free. 

To get these deals, you'll generally need to be adding a new line and signing up for a specific mobile plan. But, as long as you're planning to get an unlimited data plan anyway, they can make it a lot more affordable to pick up a brand new phone.

If you'd like to deep dive into specific carriers, we've got some great content for you in the form of our Verizon deals and AT&T deals pages. There you'll find a full list of what's available, including discounts on plans and even free phones.

Unlocked cell phone deals

Apple - offers upfront discounts on unlocked phone deals with trade-ins

Samsung -  save up to $500 on select phone deals with trade-ins

Amazon - has a vast selection of unlocked phone deals on a range of brands

Best Buy - also an excellent place to find unlocked phone deals

OnePlus - price cuts, trade-in rebates, and freebies with own-brand devices

Deals on unlocked smartphones aren't always the most eye-popping, as they tend to offer only small cuts to the retail price. Occasionally you'll find a major deal on a new smartphone, usually late into the one-year refresh cycle for that brand. We've seen this kind of price drop commonly for Samsung flagships, but they aren't frequent and rarely match the up-front discounts carriers offer. 

However, the savings you get from unlocked cell phone deals can be hidden. That's because an unlocked phone will let you freely move between carriers, so you can always choose the mobile plan that suits you. This can make your savings add up over time, as you won't be stuck on an expensive data plan for 24 months as you pay off your phone on an installment plan. 

You can also sometimes get deals directly from the phone's manufacturer, as they can offer trade-in discounts that retail stores generally won't.

iPhone and Android deals

Looking for something specific? We've got a whole host of dedicated phone deal pages that are super handy if you've got your eye on that new iPhone or Galaxy in particular.

(Image credit: Future) Phone deal tips

If you want to be sure you're getting a good deal on a phone, there are a lot of factors you need to consider. 

Compare your favorite retailers

For one thing, you should look around for different deals on the same phone. Carriers often offer heavy discounts, but occasionally they can be beat by deals on unlocked phones that will let you avoid getting stuck on an expensive mobile plan. So, if you see what seems like a good deal from a carrier, double check that you can't find a better deal elsewhere. And, be prepared to do some math to consider the price of the phone plus the price of the plan you'll be more or less locked into.

Shop at the right time of year

Shopping around big sales events is also a good time to find a phone deal. While major retailers cut prices on popular products, carriers can also take those opportunities to make their usual discounts even more enticing. Carriers also offer some of these major discounts around the launch of a new phone. Even if the price of the phone doesn't change, there may be some freebies that add extra value.

Switch to get the best phone deals

If you're after the steepest discounts, though, you'll likely need to be ready to switch carriers or at least add new lines to your account. Major carriers strongly incentivize this, and it's one of the few ways you'll get a new phone for more than 50% off. These deals can sometimes be easier if you have a second person you're shopping with, as buy-one-get-one deals are also incredibly common and often only entail one new line of service.

Get the hottest deals available in your inbox plus news, reviews, opinion, analysis and more from the TechRadar team.

---