Motorola debunked that rumor flying around last week that rooted Xoom tablets would not be eligible to receive the 4G LTE modem hardware swap. A Motorola spokesperson clarified manufacturer’s position on the support forums by stating the following:
All Motorola XOOM tablets on the Verizon Wireless network are eligible to receive an upgrade to support 4G LTE. This includes those that have been unlocked; however, those units must be submitted for upgrade with the original factory software reinstalled and the device relocked in order to receive the upgrade.
For devices that are returned unlocked, Motorola will attempt to complete the upgrade, but may be unable to update the software. In these cases, the device will be returned to the consumer with just the 4G LTE modem installed.
More details on the process will be available closer to the upgrade availability.
This makes perfect sense, unlike the previous rumor which caused a fair amount of bad press for Motorola. So Xoom owners have fun with your tablet, root it, and install custom ROMs to your heart’s delight. Just remember — if you send it in to have the 4G modem installed, make sure you have restored it back to the factory software. If you do return it to its original condition, then you are golden. If you can’t restore it, you can still get the 4G modem installed, but you will have to figure out how to enable the LTE functionality.
If you need help with restoring the factory software or setting up the LTE modem, there will be information floating around the Android community to help you with the process. Motorola is also exploring a way to provide the stock image and the tools needed to re-lock the Xoom. You can follow the thread here on the Motorola support forums for additional information.
[Via Droid-Life and Motorola]