New software/firmware updates, how?

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Yvo - 26 Aug 2003 02:35 GMT

So I understand that in order to get new software/firmware updates for your
wireless handset you can go to Verizon and they will fix you up.

My question is that we still own a Nokia 5185i and we have had it since
May/June of 2001. It isn't able to send text messages (even though the
Radioshack dealer back then said you could) and it's prone to crashes here
and there. How do you know if a phone has updated firmware/software... is
there a website that tells you what the fixes are each release or is it just
by sharing experiences on these news groups (my provider Comcast deletes all
posts if they are 5 days old, stupid retention). Also does Verizon still
update Nokia 5185i's software. We are considering considering binding
ourselves to another 2 year contract in order to upgrade the phone as
Verizon is a great service provider in the local Seattle area. (a new phone
every two doesn't apply since the plan was at 29.99 for a while)

To sum up...

1. How do you know when new software is released and what the fixes are for
each new release (specifically the Nokia 5185i)
2. How long after Verizon stops marketing a phone do they still provide
upgrades
3. How much does it cost in order to get a software update
4. Should I dump the 5185i for a new phone such as the VX4400.

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David L - 26 Aug 2003 06:13 GMT

"Yvo" <yvovandoorn@comcast.net> wrote in article
<kPy2b.197407$It4.94601@rwcrnsc51.ops.asp.att.net>:

>> Verizon is a great service provider in the local Seattle area. (a new phone
> every two doesn't apply since the plan was at 29.99 for a while)
[quoted text clipped - 3 lines]
> 1. How do you know when new software is released and what the fixes are for
> each new release (specifically the Nokia 5185i)

Read/search this forum. Then find a Verizon company store with a good
tech. They won't call them that, but some stores seem to have personnel
that are skilled at updating firmware.

> 2. How long after Verizon stops marketing a phone do they still provide
> upgrades

Got me, usually after it's been out for some time or no longer offered.
I wouldn't wait too long. Depends on the manufacturer.

> 3. How much does it cost in order to get a software update

Just an hour or so off your life getting it lined up, more if there is a
long drive involved or they fry the phone;-)

> 4. Should I dump the 5185i for a new phone such as the VX4400.

No keep the 5185 for a spare in case the new phone breaks or gets lost.

Search google groups archives for the old posts.

I don't recommend 2 year contracts. Too many liabilities to get a
cheaper phone price.

http://groups.google.com/groups?hl=en&lr=&ie=ISO-8859-1&q=alt.cellular&btnG=Goog
le+Search

-
David

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Norbert A - 27 Aug 2003 13:25 GMT

davNOLindiSpamatHotmaledotkom (David L) wrote in article
<vklr49en6thee4@corp.supernews.com>:

> "Yvo" <yvovandoorn@comcast.net> wrote in article
> <kPy2b.197407$It4.94601@rwcrnsc51.ops.asp.att.net>:
[quoted text clipped - 36 lines]
>
> [posted via phonescoop.com - free web access to the alt.cellular groups]

a few months back i ran into problems trying to get updated firmware for
the 5185i.(R.I. market). one store did not have the dongle and could not
load the firmware into the phone. the other store had the cables in the
back someplace. finally the phone started crashing and dropping calls. i
hit ebay and got a good 3285 uses the same accessories (leather case ,
charger, desk stand etc . that the 5185i used.) have not had any trouble
with the phone not one dropped call ETC. to wrap this up i would just
get another good second hand phone i wouldn't bother trying to chase
down firmware for the 5185i as VZW would much rather sell you a new
phone and lock you into a one or two year contract.

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