Samsung Locks Out Third-Party Accessories, but the Community Brings Them Back

Update January 27, 2014: Samsung has released a statement to address the flip cover issue, claiming it as a bug with a "fix" coming soon:

"We have currently identified a software compatibility issue with the Galaxy Note 3 update to Android 4.4 (KitKat) and select 3rd party accessories. A software update will be available shortly. We are committed to offering a diverse and reliable mobile experience for all customers, providing continued support and solutions for any issues that arise with product updates for both Samsung manufactured and third-party accessories."

Their reason behind this? Most likely that they can't lock out accessories that are already on the market. So new devices may still adhere to their restrictions—only time will tell.

---------------------------------------------------

Late last year, it was revealed that Samsung would begin enforcing a strict proprietary model for their accessories. Basically, they said use our stuff or don't use anything at all. By utilizing ID chips inside all its accessories, the Korean manufacturer hoped to severely limit buying options for its customers. No more rotating chargers with friends, no more third-party HDMI dongles, and no more aftermarket S View covers.

And while no one thought we'd see this implementation until at least the Galaxy S5, the latest update to the Galaxy Note 3 has made it apparent that Sammie is ready to lock us out, starting right now.

Image Credit gottabemobile.com

The KitKat build for the Galaxy Note 3 has killed off the use of S View with 3rd-party covers, so if you purchased a non-Samsung cover for your device and have the KitKat upgrade, you're probably not a happy camper right now.

Getting S View Back with Your Third-Party Covers

When giant corporations find ways to make us spend more of our money than we need to, it's a great reassurance to know that there's a large community of people looking out for our interests.

Renowned Xposed developer MohammadAG has got your S View fix, as long as you have a rooted device and Xposed Framework installed. According to the dev, "this module bypasses verification and forces S-View to work on 4.4.2."

As long as you know your way around Xposed, installation is easy: download and install the mod, reboot, and you're set.

Alternate Workaround for Spigen Covers

If you're not up for rooting, or would rather have a hardware fix as opposed to a software fix, XDA member jkozluk has a more crafty method for you.

According to his post, you'll need:

• An original Samsung case
• A small magnet from a pair of Samsung earbuds

Now, place the IC chip from the original Samsung cover in the Spigen case, and put the magnet on top. Done.

A solution for the Home button still needs to be worked out. "Until Samsung, in the next releases, activates home button while cover is closed, the button is not usable completely."

I'm sure more fixes will surface as more restrictions are placed on us, so check back for the latest info, and let us know what you think about Samsung's policy in the comments below.

Images via GalaxyNote3Case, Alibaba