Got a used N8 - has "Claro" firmware - how to flash to generic US firmware?

**ericshmerick** · 05-18-2012, 12:05 AM

Hi,

Just picked up a brand new (literally) N8 locally. I reset it and it has Claro (PR Carrier) firmware on it (Anna). I want to flash an Anna or Belle image that's normally loaded on N8's sold in the USA, but am having trouble.

I found Navifirm...downloaded it and it won't run on my Windows 7 Ultimate 64-bit platform. Keeps saying I need .NET 4.0 (which I certainly have). Tried compatibility mode and it says "incompatible program." Figure it is just needed a 32-bit OS?

Anyway, I have been away from Symbian for some time and want to come back, but am unfamiliar with all the Nokia flashing and such. Seems bricking is quite easy to do, so obviously I want to be careful.

I saw Phoenix but am not sure which firmware image to flash.

What's the most straightforward way to get rid of the Claro firmware and flash a generic North American (USA) firmware?

Thanks.

**ericshmerick** · 05-18-2012, 01:23 AM

Great. Just realized Claro Puerto Rico phones cannot be unlocked. Guess I got scammed?

**sillieidiot** · 05-18-2012, 04:56 AM

which navifirm version did you download?

you should be able to flash the N8 with any firmware. you just need to download it first. instead of getting a US version. I would go for a euro version, or a CFW.

**ericshmerick** · 05-18-2012, 10:29 AM

Originally Posted by sillieidiot

which navifirm version did you download?

you should be able to flash the N8 with any firmware. you just need to download it first. instead of getting a US version. I would go for a euro version, or a CFW.

I downloaded the same version that was on the phone, 11.12 I believe. I haven't flashed yet because I'm trying to get my money back since the shady guy clearly knew the phone would not work with an AT&T SIM.

I cannot locate any online source for Claro Puerto Rico unlocking. This means even flashing, debranding, etc, will not make the phone usable. It's locked down to Claro's network and trust me, the dude who scammed me isn't going to call Claro and beg for an unlock code. The phone is brand new so there's probably at least 2 yrs on the contract, if not 3.

This really pissed me off. Of course he isn't returning texts/calls.

**ericshmerick** · 05-18-2012, 02:31 PM

Finally got my money back. Was shady. The guy was not happy with me, but gave me my money back. He was like "it will work on AT&T." I put my SIM in, showed him the "SIM invalid" message and asked him to explain it please.

He tried to call his "buddy" at Claro, but couldn't reach him. He told me he could unlock it in a few minutes (right...buddy....). I said just give me my money and be more honest with your next victim.

Sped outta there fast.