CPID/Server Approved, VIP Patch Approved, and Official PTA Approved Mobile Phones in Pakistan

PTA Approval Types for Mobile Phones in Pakistan

When you’re buying a mobile phone in Pakistan, It’s crucial to know about PTA approval types. There are three main options: CPID/Server Approved, VIP-Patch Approved, and Official PTA Approved. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks. The table below breaks it all down so you can easily choose what works best for you.

What is CPID/Server Approve?

CPID Approved, also known as Server Approved, stands for (Client Process ID). It is a server-based method used to approve the IMEI number of a device. This process is particularly popular for Android phones, especially Samsung and Motorola models, as it makes them appear PTA-compliant without the need for official registration. The IMEI is approved through a server, and this method does not require rooting the device, ensuring that the phone’s core functionality remains intact. However, it is important to note that Samsung Knox security is permanently disabled during this process.

How Does the Process Work?

• CPID-related websites, which are blocked in Pakistan, are accessed using a VPN.
• Payments for this service are typically made through Bitcoin because this method is illegal.
• The IMEI is permanently changed through the server, making it untraceable even after a factory reset or software update.

Advantages of CPID PTA Approval

1. No Rooting Required: There is no need to root the device, which means the phone’s warranty remains intact, and its core functionality is unaffected.
2. Permanent IMEI Change: Once the process is complete, the IMEI remains permanently updated and does not revert, even after a factory reset.
3. Software Updates: Samsung phones continue to receive official software updates without any issues.
4. App Functionality: Banking apps and other secure applications work perfectly as the device remains unrooted.
5. Tax Savings: Shopkeepers often use low-cost devices with minimal PTA tax to replace the IMEI and pay its tax, making the process cost-effective. The original low-cost device is then discarded.

CPID/Server Approved Summary:

CPID, or Server Approved, is a method used to approve a phone’s IMEI without rooting, which means the device’s functionality and apps, including gaming, work perfectly. It’s especially popular for pro-gaming because it lets users enjoy high-performance phones at a much lower cost than official PTA approval. However, it’s important to know that this method is illegal, disables Samsung Knox security, and involves risks like using blocked websites and Bitcoin for payments.

What is a VIP Patch-Approved Phone?

Patch-Approved phones are widely used in Pakistan as a quick and cheap way to make phones appear PTA-compliant. However, this method comes with significant risks and compromises. Here’s how it works:

How Patch Approval Works:

• Rooting the Phone: The phone is first rooted, which means enabling admin-level access to its operating system.
• Using Flashing Tools: Specialized software and flashing devices like Chimera Tool, Z3x, Octoplus, and MTK Flash tools, etc are connected to a PC. The phone is attached, and its IMEI number is modified using these tools.
• Shared IMEI Issue: Often, shopkeepers replace multiple phones with the same IMEI number. If PTA blocks this shared IMEI, all phones using it get blocked simultaneously.

Risks of Patch Approval:

• Security Compromised: Rooting the phone compromises its security, as admin access makes it vulnerable to malware and unauthorized changes.
• Signal Issues: Factory resetting the phone can corrupt its signal files or restore the original IMEI, causing the patch to be removed and signals to stop working.
• Banking Apps Not Working: In most cases, banking apps and other secure applications fail to work on patch-approved phones due to compromised security.
• Shared IMEI Risks: Phones using the same patched IMEI face a collective risk of being blocked if the IMEI is flagged.

Why is Patch Approval Popular?

• Low Cost: Patch approval is the cheapest method available, costing between Rs. 1000 to Rs. 2000, depending on your bargaining skills.
• No Additional Costs for Shopkeepers: Since the process uses pre-existing flashing tools, shopkeepers don’t incur extra expenses, making it more accessible to users.

VIP Patched Approve Summary:

While patch approval is a budget-friendly option, it does come with notable drawbacks, including compromised security, unstable signals, non-functional banking apps, and the risk of shared IMEIs being blocked. Despite these issues, these phones are often a popular choice among Pro Gamers Mobiles due to their high-performance hardware available at a low cost. This makes them an attractive option for gaming enthusiasts who prioritize performance over reliability. However, it’s important to carefully weigh the risks and benefits before opting for this method.

What is an Official PTA-Approved Phone?

An Official PTA-Approved Phone is a mobile device that’s been legally registered with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) by paying the required taxes through proper channels. This makes it fully compliant with Pakistani regulations, allowing you to use the phone on any local mobile network without the risk of being blocked.

Why Should You Choose a Official PTA-Approved Phone?

• Legal and Safe: It’s the most reliable way to use your phone in Pakistan without any interruptions or legal issues.
• No Network Problems: A PTA-approved phone ensures smooth connectivity on all mobile networks.
• Peace of Mind: Registering the phone under your own CNIC gives you proof of ownership, like payment slips and PSID records, which can help resolve any future issues.
• Long-Term Reliability: Once registered, your phone stays compliant, so you don’t have to worry about it being blocked later.

Cons of Official PTA Approval:

• High Tax Costs: Unfortunately, the FBR tax in Pakistan is extremely high, often amounting to nearly 50% of the device’s cost.
• Affordability Issues: For many users, this high tax makes it difficult to afford official registration, pushing them towards alternative methods.
• Need for Reforms: The government should consider reducing the tax rate to encourage more users to register their phones officially, ensuring compliance and fairness for all.

Official PTA Approved Summary:

An Official PTA-Approved Phone is legally registered with PTA by paying taxes, ensuring seamless network access and compliance. While it’s the safest option, the high tax rates often 50% of the device’s cost make it unaffordable for many. Reducing taxes could encourage more users to opt for official registration.

How to Get Your Mobile Phone Official PTA Approved

Registering your mobile device with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) ensures it remains legally compliant and functional on all local networks. The process involves verifying your device’s IMEI, paying the applicable taxes, and submitting the registration application. Once approved, your device will be officially registered, granting uninterrupted access to mobile services in Pakistan. Follow these steps to complete the process seamlessly:

Step-by-Step Guide for Official PTA Approval

Follow these steps to officially register your mobile device with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA):

Step 1: Check Your Device’s IMEI Status:

• Dial *#06# on your phone to find its IMEI number(s).
• For dual SIM devices, note both IMEIs.
• Visit the DIRBS PTA Verification Portal or send the IMEI via SMS to 8484 to check its compliance status.

Step 2: Generate a PSID (Payment Slip Identity):

• Open the DIRBS Device Registration Portal.
• Log in or create an account using your CNIC or passport details.
• Enter your device’s IMEI(s) and complete the required information.
• The system will calculate the applicable taxes and generate a PSID.

Step 3: Pay the Custom Duties:

• Pay the taxes using the generated PSID through Online banking.
• 1Link ATMs or over-the-counter payment at designated banks.
• Keep the payment receipt for your records.

Step 4: Submit the Registration Application:

• Once the payment is processed, the system will automatically update your application status.
• The status changes from “Pending” to “Approved” after confirmation from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

Step 5: Verification and Approval:

• PTA verifies your application to ensure all IMEI(s) comply with GSMA standards.
• Once verified, your device will be officially registered with PTA.

Final Step: Receive Confirmation:

• You will receive a confirmation message via SMS or email.
• Your device is now officially PTA-approved and ready for use on all Pakistani networks.

Additional Tips:

• Pay the custom duties within 7 days of PSID generation to avoid application expiration.
• Keep your payment receipt and PSID for future reference.
• When buying second-hand devices, confirm their IMEI compliance and request proof of tax payment to avoid issues.

How to Verify if a Phone is PTA Patch Approved, CPID Approved, or Officially Approved

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to check the approval status of your phone:

Find the IMEI Number:

• Dial *#06# on your phone to retrieve the IMEI number.

Visit the Verification Portal:

• Go to the DIRBS PTA Verification Portal PTA IMEI verification website.

Enter the IMEI:

• Input the IMEI number into the portal to check the associated device details.

Understand the Results:

• If the IMEI shows the same model as your phone and stays intact after a factory reset: This means the phone is Officially Approved.
• If the IMEI changes or signals disappear after a factory reset: This indicates the phone is Patch Approved.
• If the IMEI remains unchanged after a reset, signals are working properly, but a different device name is displayed on the portal: This means the phone is CPID Approved.

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