Develop Bugs

Sad panda here :(

This is horrible not having root this long. It's a completely new and raw feeling. Every android phone I've ever had had got root the same day I picked it up. The og DROID was a development veteran. The Droid X, eh.. The galaxy nexus speaks for itself. The note 2 had great development as did my note 3. Then I pick up a AT&T note 4 thinking I had nothing to worry about as this is my first AT&T phone. A month later and even though this phone is awesome, its horrible not having root. I don't blame anyone but AT&T. What's a**holes. I LONG for Viper Audio & Xposed...

I feel your pain...which is exactly why I'm chomping at the bit for my Nexus 6 to arrive . I'll probably carry them both, as I think the camera is better in the Note 4..........but I want my Xposed! I gotta save those snapchats! LOL

treytreytaylor said:
This is horrible not having root this long. It's a completely new and raw feeling. Every android phone I've ever had had got root the same day I picked it up. The og DROID was a development veteran. The Droid X, eh.. The galaxy nexus speaks for itself. The note 2 had great development as did my note 3. Then I pick up a AT&T note 4 thinking I had nothing to worry about as this is my first AT&T phone. A month later and even though this phone is awesome, its horrible not having root. I don't blame anyone but AT&T. What's a**holes. I LONG for Viper Audio & Xposed...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hard to believe you didn't do your research.. AT&T has been requesting locked bootloaders from the OEMs since before the Note 3.
Sad to say this phone will probably not get cracked before Lollipop gets pushed down. After that, thenodds are probably even more unlikely. I don't think, (even though there is a long list of folks donating), that we have actually gotten confirmation that any devs are working on an exploit for this one.
If you just must have root, you'd be better off using the T-Mobile variant.

treytreytaylor said:
I don't blame anyone but AT&T. What's a**holes. I LONG for Viper Audio & Xposed...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
it sucks but its the price we pay for having a more secure device.

nyydynasty said:
it sucks but its the price we pay for having a more secure device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If I wanted a "more secure" device, I would have bought an iPhone. Not having root on the N4 is frustrating.

Sell the phone and get a T-Mobile... That's what I'm going to do if no root come out soon

flexfield said:
If I wanted a "more secure" device, I would have bought an iPhone. Not having root on the N4 is frustrating.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That would make sense except the iPhone is actually less secure... Already has jailbreak...
The fact is that AT&T and Verizon want non rootable phones. Period. And that isn't likely to change.
People that 'need' root need to make 100% sure a phone is rooted before they buy it. It is going to be more and more unlikely that phones with locked boot loaders will be rooted.
If you buy a phone that doesn't have root, then don't complain.

JasonJoel said:
People that 'need' root need to make 100% sure a phone is rooted before they buy it. It is going to be more and more unlikely that phones with locked boot loaders will be rooted.
If you buy a phone that doesn't have root, then don't complain.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly, this has been said enough, and most people have happily moved on to non root apps.

Honestly I can't believe I didn't do the research either. I should have known better smh. might have been a little to excited to snatch one up on my own line. But I'll definitely be selling it for a SM-N910T as soon as I can. What the f*ck AT&T.

Meh. You should have known before you bought it.

I am having a hard time believing all of this as well. I'm actually putting off my upgrade because of it. Sitting here with my year-old Note 3 that I rooted 2 hours after I bought it, kinda thinking about going another direction, I just really like my current plan
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using Tapatalk

How long did it take for the ATT note 3 to get rooted?

Blame Samsung
The bottom line is SAMSUNG makes the phone, not ATT. They should stop being a bunch of ******* and just say our phone comes with an unlocked bootloader. PERIOD. What are they going to do? Not carry the hottest device out there? I doubt it

I might be in the minority but to me, for the first time ever since I started using Android, I don't feel like root is necessary. Sure, it would be nice to have Xposed and TiBu, but I seem to manage fine with this phone.

redstar299 said:
The bottom line is SAMSUNG makes the phone, not ATT. They should stop being a bunch of ******* and just say our phone comes with an unlocked bootloader. PERIOD. What are they going to do? Not carry the hottest device out there? I doubt it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And what business reason is there for Samsung to do that? As long as people are buying the phones, they won't bother.
If sales falter (people buying tmobile instead of the att version doesn't count) and people are vocal on why, then something may change... But I doubt it.

Nexus 6
Mistake!
I bought my nexus 6 3 week ago.. I noticed immediately that the phone is faster that my note buy that's about it because my note had way more features, better hardware and I miss all of that now....

redstar299 said:
The bottom line is SAMSUNG makes the phone, not ATT. They should stop being a bunch of ******* and just say our phone comes with an unlocked bootloader. PERIOD. What are they going to do? Not carry the hottest device out there? I doubt it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Amen... just upgraded to Note 4 from Note 2, two weeks after my AT&T contract expired and got a note from AT&T that I could now unlock my phone... whoops for them, a bit too late. Patiently waiting for these phone manufacturers to stop bending over for the carriers and start insisting on unlocked devices right out of the factory.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N910A using XDA Premium HD app

If you have chosen to buy an AT&T/Verizon phone then you're gonna have to live with it, buddy. That's why I kept my N3 and didn't rush for the N4. That's what I've always done. Once a phone (from those two carriers) comes out, I'd just wait and watch for a couple of months if it gets rooted. If not then sell the old one and add a little bit of money and buy me an unlocked one.
From my Allianced S5!

If you want root figure a way to do it yourself, otherwise just wait patiently.

I got over not having root after maybe 5 or 6 days. Ads suck but the Note performs better than my old rooted phone, and the camera is epic, I can live without root...

Anyone that received their phone returning it?

Did you receive your XL phone and now plan to return it after playing around with it? If so, for what reason (s)?
Thanks.

hammer7t said:
Did you receive your XL phone and now plan to return it after playing around with it? If so, for what reason (s)?
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just go ahead and cancel your order if you are worried. There are many posts to read to give you an idea. Read on op.

hammer7t said:
Did you receive your XL phone and now plan to return it after playing around with it? If so, for what reason (s)?
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
nope, fantastic device.

I think I will be. Forcing myself to use it until tomorrow or a few more days...then decide between keeping this or my V30. Heavily leaning toward V30 right now.

I'm not sure yet, will use for a week and then decide. I really like the phone, but get the off axis blue screen quite a bit.
I'm not sure if mine is worse than normal or similar to other units.
Sent from my XT1095 using Tapatalk

I am giving myself until Friday. If Google doesn't release an update to fix these software glitches, it is going back.

keithleger said:
I think I will be. Forcing myself to use it until tomorrow or a few more days...then decide between keeping this or my V30. Heavily leaning toward V30 right now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why the v30 over the xl2?
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using XDA-Developers Legacy app

everyone. you got 15 days to return it. if it passed 15 days it can't be refunded. just a reminder. and applicable only on google store purchases... i know most of you already know it but just wanna remind everyone again for that... thank you so much...

I will be returning my verizon variant pixel 2 xl due to the bootloader being locked. I may buy it from google store after doing more review reading. Overall it seems like a great phone for using it a few days.

uicnren said:
nope, fantastic device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Completely agree

I'm also in the "nope, not returning it" group. I really like my 2 XL and my screen is just fine for my eyes.

I impulse purchased the device at Verizon the other night. I have the Note8 but wanted the Pixel2 as a replacement for my Nexus 6P whuch gets used for kernel hacking & ROM development. Having learned that the Verizon won't be unlocking the bootloader was a deal breaker for me. Mine is going back.
After seeing the screen and playing with the device I'm not interested in ordering the unlocked sku directly from Google. I'm unsure what to buy for a new dev device at this point.
--ok

It's not what I hoped it would be, bought Verizon one hoping like last year I could unlock bootloader. Gonna return and go with one plus 5t most likely. Gonna test drive v30 also.

People returning the Verizon variant phone because they couldn't unlock the bootloader!? Really? At this point, that is old news about Verizon phones. If that's what you care about, that is a scenario in which you wait to see if anyone figures out unlocking the bootloader before you buy. Secondly, I bought the unlocked variant from Google knowing full well that it'll be a while probably before we get things like root and twrp. Not trying to bash on anyone, but c'mon. Y'all should know better.
Sent from my Pixel XL using XDA Labs

Nope

Does anyone know if Google provides a free shipping label for a return?

Wbroshea said:
Does anyone know if Google provides a free shipping label for a return?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You'll get an email with a printable return label.

aaronc_98 said:
Why the v30 over the xl2?
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using XDA-Developers Legacy app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See my post here https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=74247798&postcount=142

capsnbottles said:
It's not what I hoped it would be, bought Verizon one hoping like last year I could unlock bootloader. Gonna return and go with one plus 5t most likely. Gonna test drive v30 also.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does the 5t even work on Verizon?

It's a phenomenally fluid device and killer battery life, but I really can't get used the display which is so essential, so returning it.

Pixel 2 XL on VZW, thoughts?

So I am reluctantly moving on from my Nexus 6 which I have loved and been rom-crazy with. I'm really bummed out how pricey phones have gotten, so looking for good value wherever I can. I'm looking to do the 2 XL from best buy, pretty good deal right now. My issue, and it's a big one, is that the VZW variant cannot have the bootloader unlocked (right??, man please tell me I'm wrong!), thus not root, ROM, etc. I've always loved Android for how customizable it is, but I'm worried if I got with this version I'll basically feel like I'm on a Google version of the IPhone. Is this the right way to look at it, or am I not giving a stock locked phone enough credit?
For anyone with this phone on VZW, I'd love to hear your thoughts on customizations, options that you undertake without root, if you miss root/Rom or if performance and stock are enough. Specifically, I like to be able to change color of UI/apps a la substratum, wireless tether, nav bar mods to name a few. Any locked options out there, any others I'd get without root?
Would love some experienced opinions.

You cannot unlock your bootloader. You are pretty limited with customizations. Like only Substratum with Andromeda. No ROMs, no kernels. I have read that you can sideload the P OTA. But that it's very risky and you pretty much can't go back. Go through the Google store and finance through there if you can't afford to pay for it entirely.
But I was saying in another thread that I am completely fine with this phone stock unrooted. I've when relocked my bootloader. I've had nothing but Samsung devices since their introduction. I have had better battery life and SOT than I have ever had on any phone by a long shot. I went back to my S8+ and couldn't stomach how laggy the Samsung experience is. In my opinion, you really can't go wrong with this phone. But if you're wanting to rom and customize, you'll be SOL with the Verizon version.

MacTheRipperr said:
You cannot unlock your bootloader. You are pretty limited with customizations. Like only Substratum with Andromeda. No ROMs, no kernels. I have read that you can sideload the P OTA. But that it's very risky and you pretty much can't go back. Go through the Google store and finance through there if you can't afford to pay for it entirely.
But I was saying in another thread that I am completely fine with this phone stock unrooted. I've when relocked my bootloader. I've had nothing but Samsung devices since their introduction. I have had better battery life and SOT than I have ever had on any phone by a long shot. I went back to my S8+ and couldn't stomach how laggy the Samsung experience is. In my opinion, you really can't go wrong with this phone. But if you're wanting to rom and customize, you'll be SOL with the Verizon version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey thx for the reply. You know back in the early days of Android, smoother experience was exactly why I got into unlocking; OC the processor, get rid of bloatware, etc. Obv that's not as much an issue, I wonder how much I'd miss the other customization. Good to hear there's at least some substratum.
I'm certainly worried about being locked into a phone with so few options relative to what I'm used to. But if it's a solid phone with no need for fixes that root/ROM provides that the manufacturer isn't providing, then I guess I'd be ok...right?

ckfalls said:
Hey thx for the reply. You know back in the early days of Android, smoother experience was exactly why I got into unlocking; OC the processor, get rid of bloatware, etc. Obv that's not as much an issue, I wonder how much I'd miss the other customization. Good to hear there's at least some substratum.
I'm certainly worried about being locked into a phone with so few options relative to what I'm used to. But if it's a solid phone with no need for fixes that root/ROM provides that the manufacturer isn't providing, then I guess I'd be ok...right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Having run the P2XL fully stock for a month after I received it, I will say that you won't miss unlocking, rooting, and modding it that much. Sure, it's great to me able to do all that stuff of course, however, it certainly won't hinder the functionality and experience of the P2XL. I was completely satisfied just being able to theme it with substratum+Andromeda, and just use it as it was intended. After all, it's just a phone ???

ckfalls said:
Hey thx for the reply. You know back in the early days of Android, smoother experience was exactly why I got into unlocking; OC the processor, get rid of bloatware, etc. Obv that's not as much an issue, I wonder how much I'd miss the other customization. Good to hear there's at least some substratum.
I'm certainly worried about being locked into a phone with so few options relative to what I'm used to. But if it's a solid phone with no need for fixes that root/ROM provides that the manufacturer isn't providing, then I guess I'd be ok...right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would also like to mention that the dual partitions on these phones make doing backups, restoring, installing ROMs, kernels and all that comes with that kind of a drag. It most certainly isn't like the s1 through the s5 where the bootloader was unlocked and flashing and modding was much simpler. But on the other side. Android has come a long way. I rooted my first week and flaked everything I could. But I always found myself returning to stock because even the custom ROMs like DU or nitrogen OS left me missing something that they just weren't achieving from the stock pixel experience. I joined here in like 2012 and for once in my time using an Android phone, I'm actually content with the device as is. They're are others that use BusyBox, XPosed and or Magisk modules. I guess I'm just able to achieve what I'm looking for without root or unlocked bootloader just fine with what third party apps I use. But if you're a bit of a more easy going user, and have only flashed to flash and to get AOSP like experience with overclocking to achieve those conveted benchmark scores. That just isn't needed with this device right now. Not for me at least. Having the freedom to unlock is nice, especially if you plan to keep this device and the support stops. But in my opinion, you would be well suited even by the Verizon model. I just got the Google unlocked just in case. Anyway, I hope this helps. Good luck on your next purchase, if your decide to join the pixel family, welcome aboard. I know I'll never be going back.

Great, thanks for that. Yeah it seems the more and more I dig the less and less necessary a phone like this is for doing the unlocking rooting and rom that was needed for say, the HTC Eris my first unlocked device haha.
Okay, think I'm going to take the plunge. Looking forward to updating several months later on my experience. Best.

ckfalls said:
Great, thanks for that. Yeah it seems the more and more I dig the less and less necessary a phone like this is for doing the unlocking rooting and rom that was needed for say, the HTC Eris my first unlocked device haha.
Okay, think I'm going to take the plunge. Looking forward to updating several months later on my experience. Best.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
might wanna check out.... https://www.androidpolice.com/2018/...-via-google-store-financing-free-18w-charger/

I am using unlocked google store pixel on verizon why cant you just buy from google store with $200 off deal?

I'm in the same boat, I'm looking for a Pixel 2 XL. I keep looking for an exploit to pop up or a good deal on the Google variant. My reasons for wanting the unlocked bootloader are a little different. I'm looking for an unlocked bootloader so I can get rid of gapps and play services and run AOSP or copperhead.
The 200$ Google credit may have me pull the trigger before end of the month.

ibsk8 said:
I'm in the same boat, I'm looking for a Pixel 2 XL. I keep looking for an exploit to pop up or a good deal on the Google variant. My reasons for wanting the unlocked bootloader are a little different. I'm looking for an unlocked bootloader so I can get rid of gapps and play services and run AOSP or copperhead.
The 200$ Google credit may have me pull the trigger before end of the month.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not many for sale right now, but Swappa is a great place for Pixel 2 XL's, either VZN or preferably Unlocked.

I bought the Verizon P2XL from BB with the $400 off deal a few weeks ago. No regrets. I've found nohing that I'm missing from not having root. I do love tweaking and flashing ROMs but the experience on the Pixel is so good I'm not pining for it.
As far as tweaks, the only thing I'm really doing is running an immersion mode app to hide the navigation bar and Edge Gestures to enable swipe navigation. It works great.
One of the great things about having the Pixel (my last phone was they Moto Z2 Play) is the variety of cool cases available. I'm rotating between a cloth backed case from Incipio and a real wood case from Kerf Case. Both are fantastic.
Hope you enjoy your device!

With Verizon, you don't have to deal with that messy issue of ownership.
With Verizon, you have the privilege of paying for the device of your choice but never truly owning the device.
'Oh! Do you want to unlock this device? Sorry, we don't allow you to control your device'.

So I look at things a little differently. I think you may want to look at use case of your phone and your specific needs. Yes the performance of the phones have increased dramatically, so the need to strip bloatware to optimize storage and speed isn't really there. However, for me, I have 2 must have features, Hotspot tether and Viper4A... Those are deal-breakers for me, at least. I'm sure you'll get a lot of various opinions here. Typically what I've done in the past years is keep my nose to the grind here in XDA, and then wait for an bootloader unlock method on a VZW phone. I've had to wait a bit at times, but I've balanced my needs for a new phone (if my old one is under performing), and the ability to get into a 'newer' one with full customization's. If you're willing to wait sometimes you can save considerable $$$, otherwise you lose functionality or pay more for unlocked variants. Your call completely... for example I'm on the VZW Pixel2 as there is a small window to unlock the bootloader. This doesn't exist for the 2-XL though...sorry. Good Luck!!!

uicnren said:
might wanna check out.... https://www.androidpolice.com/2018/...-via-google-store-financing-free-18w-charger/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
oneandroidnut said:
I am using unlocked google store pixel on verizon why cant you just buy from google store with $200 off deal?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
$200 off, and a 18w charger? Yeah, I'd buy the 2 XL again for that price!
Coming from the 6P I ran the 2 XL for about a month or so fully stock and was ALMOST happy to wait for cust roms.
I love this phone! It's light, it's fast. Dual front speakers. Great device, even locked.
Then I realized that I really like the flashing and modding process and ability to mess with my devices, and would miss that with a locked bootloader. I'm a simple guy, messing with phones makes me a happy, simple guy.
Could I live with a locked 2 XL? Yes. Would I want to? No.
If you can't or don't want to pay outright for the unlocked version, Google offers pretty much the same payment plan you'd get with VZW (my carrier also) so you'd pay $40/mo for 2 yrs 0% interest and you still get all the VZW services and goodies since this is a VZW offered device (unlike my 6P)..
Bottom line; could you live with the Nexus 6 another year? (heck I could probably live with my Note 3 running Alliance for another year) Probably.
But for $40 mo, and the ability to mess with, tweak, flash, root, and enjoy modding your device; do you WANT to stay on it another year?
Decisions, decisions...

I've had the phone since launch and I can honestly say I havent even looked at the ROM's being released because it is just that good. Like others have said, the battery life is just amazing on it and its just so buttery smooth still. I wouldnt hesitate to buy the VZW version knowing I cant unlock it.

Gilley said:
I've had the phone since launch and I can honestly say I havent even looked at the ROM's being released because it is just that good. Like others have said, the battery life is just amazing on it and its just so buttery smooth still. I wouldnt hesitate to buy the VZW version knowing I cant unlock it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have been using a google one on verizon but havent unlocked or looked at roms either. It runs so smooth and I never think about battery. Im up at 7 am and go to bed at 10/11/midnight and never had it down under 15% unless its hours of streaming and it still lasts until I go to bed

oneandroidnut said:
I am using unlocked google store pixel on verizon why cant you just buy from google store with $200 off deal?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I mean $650 definitely gets me closer, still don't love it. Can get $450 @ BBY vzw variant. Not sure if the $200 is worth the unlock, might be. Have some decisions to make.

ckfalls said:
Yeah, I mean $650 definitely gets me closer, still don't love it. Can get $450 @ BBY vzw variant. Not sure if the $200 is worth the unlock, might be. Have some decisions to make.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you don't plan on, or worried about rooting or modding, then save your dough and just get the Big Red version. The P2XL is still pretty darn good running full stock :good:

The Pixel 2 XL is such a great experience out of the box that I haven't had any desire to root, especially since substratum is now available for rootless phones via andromeda. FWIW, having an unlocked Pixel doesn't seem to provide many more options than a locked Pixel based on the current state of development for this phone.
---------- Post added at 02:20 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:17 PM ----------
b00ster23 said:
So I look at things a little differently. I think you may want to look at use case of your phone and your specific needs. Yes the performance of the phones have increased dramatically, so the need to strip bloatware to optimize storage and speed isn't really there. However, for me, I have 2 must have features, Hotspot tether and Viper4A... Those are deal-breakers for me, at least. I'm sure you'll get a lot of various opinions here. Typically what I've done in the past years is keep my nose to the grind here in XDA, and then wait for an bootloader unlock method on a VZW phone. I've had to wait a bit at times, but I've balanced my needs for a new phone (if my old one is under performing), and the ability to get into a 'newer' one with full customization's. If you're willing to wait sometimes you can save considerable $$$, otherwise you lose functionality or pay more for unlocked variants. Your call completely... for example I'm on the VZW Pixel2 as there is a small window to unlock the bootloader. This doesn't exist for the 2-XL though...sorry. Good Luck!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe it's plan specific, but I can tether just fine with my VZW Pixel 2 XL.

Thanks guys. Yeah I had no idea hotspot was included with my plan, used to not be that way but apparently it is, again another reason I don't need to root. Yeah I've heard Viper is the bomb, never looked into it but honestly I so rarely use the phone speakers, always on Bluetooth of some kind which always seems serviceable for me.
Got the vzw phone in, saved $200+, we'll see how it goes.
I'll say, this blue shift thing is no joke...jarringly noticeable. I'll check the IMEI, see if I can get a later build which I've heard had a better chance of less blue shift. Haven't taken it through it's paces yet so not sure if any of the other screen issues are present yet.

is the unlocked version worth the price over Verizon buy one get one?

Looking to get the 3XL when it comes out through Verizon. Most likely Verizon is going to run a buy one get one with adding on a new line in.
With the phone being stock Android already but with a Verizon locked bootloader is it more beneficial to give up the buy-one-get-one and just buy an unlocked one through Verizon? If I go the buy-one-get-one route myself and my brother-in-law are going to be splitting the retail cost of the one we have to buy
EDIT 10/13/2018
Come to find out we cannot have any more smartphones on our line with it being a special plan that it is. So we can't take advantage of the buy one get one

If you want root, then do not buy the Verizon version. On all previous Verizon Pixel devices "OEM unlocking" in developer options has been disabled. With that disabled you can't unlock the bootloader. With a locked bootloader you can't install TWRP. Without TWRP you can't install Magisk. Without Magisk you have no root.
If having root is not important to you, then feel free to go for the Verizon version.

Face_Plant said:
If you want root, then do not buy the Verizon version. On all previous Verizon Pixel devices "OEM unlocking" in developer options has been disabled. With that disabled you can't unlock the bootloader. With a locked bootloader you can't install TWRP. Without TWRP you can't install Magisk. Without Magisk you have no root.
If having root is not important to you, then feel free to go for the Verizon version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know the whole locked bootloader, TWRP stuff. It's probably been since my Google Nexus and I believe my Note 4 or 5 that I messed with rooting, unlocked bootloaders and roms LOL
But with it being stock pure Google is there really anything truly beneficial to having the unlocked bootloader to allow for rooting possibilities. I used to root my phone's just to run custom roms to get rid of them bloatware that other manufacturers put on it. But since the pixel doesn't have a bloat or skin overlay, is there a real reason for rooting capabilities?

Androider4Life said:
I know the whole locked bootloader, TWRP stuff. It's probably been since my Google Nexus and I believe my Note 4 or 5 that I messed with rooting, unlocked bootloaders and roms LOL
But with it being stock pure Google is there really anything truly beneficial to having the unlocked bootloader to allow for rooting possibilities. I used to root my phone's just to run custom roms to get rid of them bloatware that other manufacturers put on it. But since the pixel doesn't have a bloat or skin overlay, is there a real reason for rooting capabilities?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's always good reasons to root. Ad blocking is the number one thing that comes to mind. Utilities like Better Battery Stats to see what's killing your battery, Titanium Backup to backup your apps or uninstall system apps, WakeBlock to block or limit wakelocks so your phone isn't waking up every 10 seconds to send analytics data to Facebook/Twitter/Google when it should be sleeping, etc.
Google phones still come with bloat, it's just not as bad as Samsung or LG phones. For example, my 6P came with a ton of Google apps installed (Play Games, Hangouts, Play Movies, Docs, Slides, and **** ton more) that I would probably never use or have a desire to use. Sure you can disable most of them, but I'd rather remove them entirely.

These are the best reasons for rooting. Ad blocking is a good one, and I just enjoyed flashing new and different roms. It was fun - there was a new cm nightly every day to flash. I've got away from that partly because of less development and partly because stock android is pretty good as is. New features like android pay are very security conscious and don't play well with root. It's up to you if you want to give up the ability to root. Half price on the phone is pretty tempting. If you can't handle staying stock you could probably get your price out of the phone on Swappa and buy from Google. If there is any development to get in to. I've been stock the past year and am happy with that.

dmb219 said:
These are the best reasons for rooting. Ad blocking is a good one, and I just enjoyed flashing new and different roms. It was fun - there was a new cm nightly every day to flash. I've got away from that partly because of less development and partly because stock android is pretty good as is. New features like android pay are very security conscious and don't play well with root. It's up to you if you want to give up the ability to root. Half price on the phone is pretty tempting. If you can't handle staying stock you could probably get your price out of the phone on Swappa and buy from Google. If there is any development to get in to. I've been stock the past year and am happy with that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did not think about the swappa thing. May be a good idea depending on what it's going for on there when it releases.
If I would stick with the Verizon variant, I would just need to stay off XDA and not read "what I could be doing with the unlocked variant" lol.

Androider4Life said:
Looking to get the 3XL when it comes out through Verizon. Most likely Verizon is going to run a buy one get one with adding on a new line in.
With the phone being stock Android already but with a Verizon locked bootloader is it more beneficial to give up the buy-one-get-one and just buy an unlocked one through Verizon? If I go the buy-one-get-one route myself and my brother-in-law are going to be splitting the retail cost of the one we have to buy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ill never understand why anyone would buy a device thats locked down if they dont have to.
Absolutely Id go for the nom Verizon version....its a no brainer.
Sent from my Note 9 exynos, S9 plus exynos, Pixel 2 XL or Note FE

Don't get a locked device, especially if you're hanging out on XDA!

galaxys said:
Don't get a locked device, especially if you're hanging out on XDA!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What he said ^^

galaxys said:
Don't get a locked device, especially if you're hanging out on XDA!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea, the fact that you're here is testament to the need for the unlocked Pixel. I've been mostly stock for the last couple years but tinker occasionally. I want the ability to tweak my phone even if I choose not to, especially if there is some development going on. I hope there is some life left in the Pixel community here, it's been kind of quiet. The phone is more difficult to mod and to be honest, the stock software is hard to improve on.

dmb219 said:
Yea, the fact that you're here is testament to the need for the unlocked Pixel. I've been mostly stock for the last couple years but tinker occasionally. I want the ability to tweak my phone even if I choose not to, especially if there is some development going on. I hope there is some life left in the Pixel community here, it's been kind of quiet. The phone is more difficult to mod and to be honest, the stock software is hard to improve on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That was my thought too about how stock software is hard to improve on to justify buying unlocked rather than the buy one get one thru Verizon ( if they offer it) and splitting the cost of the one we have to buy.

Androider4Life said:
That was my thought too about how stock software is hard to improve on to justify buying unlocked rather than the buy one get one thru Verizon ( if they offer it) and splitting the cost of the one we have to buy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't have Verizon but if I got a Pixel for half price thru my carrier I might be on that. My son has Verizon and gets his phone free from his work. He was a hacker too but has been good with a stock Pixel XL since he got it. Monthly updates - hard to beat stock on the Pixels.

As others have mentioned, having an unlocked phone generally means you are able to root the device. However, I couldn't help but noticing Google's new Titan chip that is claiming to securing passwords and the OS. My question is, how is this new "chip" going to play with "rooting" the device. Will simply having an unlocked device bypass this new Titan chip?

At this moment Verizon's 128gb model is 30$ more at 1029.99 with 9% tax 1122.69 plus $30 upgrade fee. Total $1,152.69
Google's version is 999.99 with 9% tax $1089.99
So all in all with tax one is saving over roughly 62$
Verizon is doing BOGO on the 64gb only, and offering a wireless stand. Even without the BOGO it equalizes out.
I don't need the BOGO so buying from Google is cheaper for me

I haven't rooted in YEARS. The last phone I rooted was the 1+2. OEM vanilla android is so good now I'm not even tempted. I stopped specifically when I thought about why I was installing ROMs. I wanted one that hid from Android Pay (back in the day) and allowed me to clone my phone if it broke. So, I was installing software from suspect sources to make copies of my device and perform financial transactions... Dafuq was I thinking!
This probably isn't a popular thing to say, but... how much do you really trust random dudes calling themselves "SKREET/|/KLoWnzZ", or some ****, who put together the "(-XxX[DaRTh++KriMzON ].::.KaRBoN.::.SKuLLzZzXxX-)" ROM, anyway? You've probably got some kind of banking data on that phone, right? I'm not saying Devs are crooks, but I'm certain more than one dude out there isn't on the up-and-up, I promise you. Mathematics demands it to be so. My wife would choke the piss out of me if our account got drained because I compromised our data using a hot ROM cooked up in Romania.
NOW, I get unlocked phones so I can carry a blank phone and switch carriers for trips overseas. My Pixel 2XL will replace my Nexus 6 as my travel phone, and the Pixel 3XL will be my main phone

I have been purchasing my phones directly either from Google or HTC, just so I could unlock and root. But I haven''t been rooting, even with an unlocked bootloader. I am probably not going to unlock my Pixel 3XL since I want to use Android Pay, and also play PoGo (I know Magisk can hide it, but it's always a game of cat and mouse.)

Plus, you never know. The original Verizon Pixel was unlockable for a brief time. It's unlikely, but it could happen this time as well.

Androider4Life said:
I know the whole locked bootloader, TWRP stuff. It's probably been since my Google Nexus and I believe my Note 4 or 5 that I messed with rooting, unlocked bootloaders and roms LOL
But with it being stock pure Google is there really anything truly beneficial to having the unlocked bootloader to allow for rooting possibilities. I used to root my phone's just to run custom roms to get rid of them bloatware that other manufacturers put on it. But since the pixel doesn't have a bloat or skin overlay, is there a real reason for rooting capabilities?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since the Nexus? You didn't even unlock the 5X? So the question is should I spend an extra $1000 so I can possibly use Adaware? You won't need Titanium if you're not flashing roms, Better BS works perfectly without root, and there is no bloatware any longer. I understand if these things like flashing roms from Romania (lol that post above is funny) are important to you but you haven't rooted in like what, 5 years now? This is really a no brainer.
---------- Post added at 11:51 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:48 AM ----------
spotmark said:
Plus, you never know. The original Verizon Pixel was unlockable for a brief time. It's unlikely, but it could happen this time as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not gonna happen like it did for that one month. That flaw has been closed. I'm just waiting for a bounty thread for temp root. And I'm wondering even with temp root if you'd be able to unlock the bootloader on this device.

bobby janow said:
Not gonna happen like it did for that one month. That flaw has been closed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm well aware of that, thanks, but I prefer to be optimistic and hope that we may get lucky. When we get them in our hands, we'll know for sure.

spotmark said:
I'm well aware of that, thanks, but I prefer to be optimistic and hope that we may get lucky. When we get them in our hands, we'll know for sure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I do admire your optimism but they've been at this a long time and it seems they really have it locked down this time. Unless the Pixel 3s have an exploit I just don't see it. I do hope you're right though.
Sent from my [device_name] using XDA-Developers Legacy app

just bought pixel 3 xl

Hey I found a good deal on Pixel 3 XL bundle. It was bought from Bestbuy. Which I assume means that it's locked bootloader. Is this correct? Has their been any method to unlock. (I know in the past that the OG Pixel and P2 have had temporary unlocks)
Thank you, guys. I don't root or flash very often but having the option is very nice.

AsuraDas said:
Hey I found a good deal on Pixel 3 XL bundle. It was bought from Bestbuy. Which I assume means that it's locked bootloader. Is this correct? Has their been any method to unlock. (I know in the past that the OG Pixel and P2 have had temporary unlocks)
Thank you, guys. I don't root or flash very often but having the option is very nice.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're correct that the bootloader is locked on bestbuy devices and there has not been any exploits to unlock it.

jd1639 said:
You're correct that the bootloader is locked on bestbuy devices and there has not been any exploits to unlock it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you, is it still not possible to flash factory images and have to rely on OTA updates through ADB?

I would at least turn on wifi before activation and check to see if you can toggle oem unlock. Sometimes unlockable imeis are mixed in.
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk

I am coming from Pixel 3 so I know what to expect in performance, camera etc. Is the battery significantly better. And does the ugly notch bother you, or do you guys get use to it. Does anyone create a software bezzle, or embrace Mr. Happy Face Notch

Just hide the notch in developer settings. under simulate secondary screen.

AsuraDas said:
I am coming from Pixel 3 so I know what to expect in performance, camera etc. Is the battery significantly better. And does the ugly notch bother you, or do you guys get use to it. Does anyone create a software bezzle, or embrace Mr. Happy Face Notch
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got used to the notch and just embrace it now. Used to his it also through developer settings, but now I just don't zoom into videos.
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk

AsuraDas said:
And does the ugly notch bother you, or do you guys get use to it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I love the notch, and pretty soon you will too. At first it's kinda strange, but after a while you just kinda forget it's there and it becomes normal. I used a notchless phone the other day and that felt/looked really weird after using only my Pixel 3 XL for a year.

Such a tough decision. Keep my 64 GB Pixel 3 that can be unlocked BL, or keep Pixel 3 XL with 120Gb that can not. I already tried without sim.

I recently upgraded from 2xl to 3xl.
I don't even notice the notch.
The only things I notice are the screen is brighter in the dark than the 2xl at its dimmest setting which does annoy me.
The device does seem snappier and smoother.
Besides that it's almost the same phone and not really much of an upgrade. I only upgrade to sell the previous model before it's worthless.
Always buy one model down from latest. This way I only pay $100 per upgrade