Certified device for Verizon or AT&T

[MikeBonga]

we are using a device that uses the Nordic NRF 9160.  We want to use the device on the Verizon or AT&T network in the US but both providers tell us that the device isn't approved with them.  Neither AT&T nor Verizon will acknowledge the NRF 9160 as a certified device.  Can you tell me if there are any device manufacturers using the NRF 9160 that are certified for use on Verizon or AT&T?  We are ready to go... just can't buy the cellular service.

[bjorn-spockeli]

HI Mike, 

I find it very odd that Verizon is telling you that the nRF9160 is not approved. We are listed as an approved module on their website, see https://opendevelopment.verizonwireless.com/design-and-build/approved-modules/module/8258

Best regards

Bjørn

[MikeBonga]

Thanks for your reply.  We have the nRF9160 DK which is described as a Verizon certified device.   It has IMEI 352656100166183 .    Verizon tells me that this is not a valid IMEI and so we can't go any further.  We also have 3 other devices using the nRF9160, made by Fanstel.  Same story, Verizon does not recognize the IMEI.  

[bjorn-spockeli]

Okay, I will reach out to guys responsible for certifying the nRF9160 to hear if they can shed some light on this. Will get back to you as soon as I have any information. 

Best regards

Bjørn

[MikeBonga]

Found the error, the IMEI above is for another device.  my bad.

[MikeBonga]

I am retrieving the correct IMEI from the nRF9160 DK and will try to register it with Verizon.  If it doesn't work I will let you know

[bjorn-spockeli]

Just to clarify, I assume that the devices are prototypes for a product you are developing and you want to test these on the Verizon or At&T network?

I have been informed that we do not  register the nRF9160 DK IMEIs with Verizon, but you should still be able to use them for test and development with out Verizon through Verizons Open Development Program, see https://opendevelopment.verizonwireless.com/design-and-build. 

You should be able to obtain data plans for development device through Verizon's Thingyspace portal.

Quoting the Early Network Access Program (ENAP) section in  this document on the Open Development Device Certification Process from Verizon:

If the DEVELOPER is using a VZW certified module, up to 20 activations can be allowed for developmental purposes. Without a VZW certified module, up to 2 activations can be allowed for developmental purposes. Upon uploading of test Device IMEIs to the ODP, VZW will load the test Device(s) MEID/ESN/IMEI in DMD. The DEVELOPER should then work with their VZW sales representative to subscribe and activate lines to connect the test Device(s) with VZW network. The test MDNs must be disconnected no later than 60 day after testing is completed

Best regards

Bjørn

[MikeBonga]

Thanks for your feedback again.   I was contacted yesterday by someone from Verizon's technical team and they are able to set up my IMEIs in DMD.  We expect this to be completed in the next day so I should be all fixed up soon.  Thank you for your help.

[bjorn-spockeli]

Great! Happy to hear that the issue has been resolved.