Hello, all. I'm about to root and flash my ROM for the first time. I've already located all the instructional posts to complete the process, but still have one question before I get started. Currently I do not have service with any wireless providers as I just bought this phone from a friend of mine. Will I be able to root and flash the ROM without having service? Any help will be greatly appreciated.
Yes you will be able to do so, but it is slightly more hassle.
To get around Sprint ID you can use the voice command button on the right side of the phone.
Press and hold the voice dialer until the prompt pops up and say "Application Settings". Confirm on screen that is what you want. Navigate to Application Settings->Development->USB debugging and enable it.
You can also enable WiFi that way, say "WiFi Settings"
To tell what version you are currently running say "Phone Status"
I think you can also say "Sprint ID" and choose one of the options and Sprint ID will stop bugging you, but I never tried it and I've since removed Sprint ID so can't try now.
KP500 and Force Flashing works as long as you have USB debugging turned on. Phone doesn't need to be activated.