Service provider Software change

Question

Hello everyone, my first post on the forum.
I have an 8520 Curve, OS version V5.0.0681 (platform 5.2.0.67).  Is it possible to change the Service provider software, say from O2 UK to Vodafone UK?
Its just that I want to give the phone as a gift and it would be great if it was branded with the appropriate software.
Obviously unlocking is not a problem.
I have downloaded the Vodafone UK software from the BB site, but I just don't know how to do it, or even if its possible.
Any help would be much appreciated,........Thanks !
Solved!
Go to Solution.

Answer 1

Hi and Welcome to the Community!
From a PC, you can install any compatible (e.g., for your exact BB Model Number) OS package to a BB via this procedure:
http://supportforums.blackberry.com/t5/BlackBerry-​Device-Software/How-To-Reload-Your-Operating-Syste​...
Note that while written for "reload" and the Storm, it can be used to upgrade, downgrade, or reload any BB device model -- it all depends on the OS package you download and install to your PC. You can even use a different carriers OS package by simply inserting, between steps 1 and 2, the deletion, on your PC, of a file named VENDOR.XML. Be sure that you remove, from your PC, any other BB device OS packages as having more than one installed to the PC can cause conflicts with this procedure.
If you are on MAC, you are limited to only your carriers sanctioned OS packages...but can still use any levels that they currently sanction. See this procedure:
KB19915How to perform a clean reload of BlackBerry smartphone application software using BlackBerry Desktop Software
However...
amazingmin wrote:
Its just that I want to give the phone as a gift and it would be great if it was branded with the appropriate software.
If your intent is that, upon reboot, the splash screen change to a different carrier, that will never change. That splash screen is deeper into the device than is the OS, so it will never change.
Further, you should read this:
KB05099 Steps to take before selling or after buying a previously owned BlackBerry smartphone
And conduct the "seller" steps completely.
Lastly, getting a BB to work on a network where the carrier does not directly support that exact model can be quite challenging indeed. I do not know if this applies in your case, but just be ready for challenges should it not function as hoped for upon receipt.
Good luck!
Occam's Razor nearly always applies when troubleshooting technology issues!
If anyone has been helpful to you, please show your appreciation by clicking the button inside of their post. Please click here and read, along with the threads to which it links, for helpful information to guide you as you proceed. I always recommend that you treat your BlackBerry like any other computing device, including using a regular backup schedule...click here for an article with instructions.
Join our BBM Channels
BSCF General Channel
PIN: C0001B7B4   Display/Scan Bar Code
Knowledge Base Updates
PIN: C0005A9AA   Display/Scan Bar Code