Reply to Message

Android is open-source, but the devices themselves are restricted by the carriers. I have the original Samsung Galaxy Tab. I got it basically free with a data plan when the new model came out. I wasn't going to root it until I found out exactly how much my carrier had crippled the thing.

I ordered a bluetooth keyboard case for it. I couldn't connect. After some research, I found out that certain carriers had removed part of the bluetooth profile. I could connect to my Motorola bluetooth hands-free device in my vehicle, but not to the keyboard. I also found out that this tablet can also be used for a phone in Europe. It's disabled in North America.

I ended up rooting and installing a custom firmware called The Overcome Experience. I can now connect with my keyboard and my tablet is also a big goofy phone. Apparently, you can make phone calls on it. I'm not going to since I shouldn't have the ability to do that and I don't want to draw attention to myself.

That's why people root their devices. And, that's what happens if you end up off of work. Everything in the house becomes fair game on the days when you're not feeling too bad.