Carrier compatibility with modems - EC25-AF

mu0 · 2021-03-09T21:57:06.408Z

Just wanted to clarify modem compatibility with the carriers… while the EC25-AF is indicated as being broadly compatible across US carriers by the Quectel spec sheet, GL iNet has several references to this modem only being compatible with T-Mobile. For example, on the GL-X750 page, it says:

Note : The EC25-AF / EP06-A Module Only Work With T-Mobile

Similarly, the GL-MiFi page indicates “EC25-AF 4G US T-Mobile”, without mentioning any of the other carriers.

Are there real compatibility issues of the EC25-AF with other US carriers, or is it just a lack of certification with carriers other than T-Mobile (and now AT&T), or both?

expresspotato · 2021-03-10T15:04:13.471Z

It has the right bands for AT&T, but I think they still do IMEI blocking and all that horrible stuff.

alzhao · 2021-03-11T08:45:16.286Z

The module is compatible with all the carriers in North America.

Certification is difficult.

Especially when you buy SIM card as a consumer, they only want you to use on the phones they sell.

mu0 · 2021-03-12T00:07:18.889Z

Thanks, that’s helpful! I do think the messaging could be clearer - perhaps “only certified with T-Mobile but compatible with all carriers” would be more accurate.

I totally understand that certification is difficult.

alzhao · 2021-03-13T09:26:08.406Z

Actually the precise description is:

Most of the carriers do not ask for certification to use their network, except for AT&T, Verizon and Sprint.

BTW, this only happens in the US.