I am disappointed with my A35.

[CelestialUnicorn]

Backstory: I bought a replacement phone on E-bay back in December (My previous phone was an A50.) 

I didn't think much about buying an unlocked phone from E-bay. The seller I bought it from wasn't completely honest about which country the version of the a35 was originally for. 

To clarify: I'm in the US. The phone is for the Latin America region. (SM-A35E/DS)

Anyway, within a few weeks of using this phone, I noticed that pictures/screenshots from other people are unreadable and very blurry. - Which made me feel like I wasted $280 on this phone. Tried messing with the settings & didn't figure out a solution. 

Additionally, on June 15th, my phone notified me to update to android 15. I downloaded the update. Then my phone refused to work like it did on android 14. Since then, my phone only works when there's an available Wi-Fi connection. I can't use data anymore either. 😕 

As a result, I feel like the newer A series line of galaxy phones will be a disappointment based on research i've done. 

So my questions are: 1. would I be better off buying a higher end Samsung from the S series? If so 2. which S series samsung has good screenshot/ picture receiving quality? 

Thanks in advance for the advice. 

[realaud]

Wait, so you bought an out of region phone from a sketchy seller on e-Bay and it's somehow Samsung's fault the phone is wonky? 

Your update was a U.S. region update and may have caused some  issues and conflicts with your phone.  Users on here can likely help you troubleshoot/fix some of them.  Of course a phone running Android 15, will not behave the same way as one running Android 14 - there are new features--and a new OneUI.

The A series phones are perfectly functional phones.  I find that the only real difference in performance and features is the processor (don't really notice any difference between the A54 and my former S10 lite) and the lack of AI.  If AI is important to you, then don't buy an A series phone.  If wireless charging is important to you, don't buy an A series phone.  If you want a phone that works and takes really good photos, the A series will do you well.  Just make sure you buy it new and from the proper region and from a reputable seller. 

For the record, Latin American versions will work worldwide, but the only U.S. carrier that fully supports it would be T-Mobile.  Don't get an L.A. version unless you have T-Mo.

[meself]

Possible the device isn't supporting the bands used in usa

[CelestialUnicorn]

That's what I think, too, especially after the update.

[meself]

Trouble with international or non usa branded is bands in use some are different or dont have what's used in usa

[casualSJ7230]

Your phone is made for Latin America. Get a new phone, as changing the country firmware on your phone is very dangerous.

[NoLuvJavi]

Next time, purchase one through Amazon. 🙂 Cheaper too.