Related
First of all apologies if this is in the wrong area. Please move and or let me know.
I've read through multiple threads and posts and I want to make sure I'm understanding things.
I have a pixel XL on Verizon at 7.1.2 with all the updates etc already applied (because I was stupid and didn't read before I did these things).
Based on what I read depixel8 it seems depixel8 was an option up until 7.1 andif you didn't get unlocked then then you are sol at this time. Is that right?
Am I correct that without an unlocked bootloader there is no TWRP no root and no custom ROMs? Some posts I read seem to say you can do these things with a locked bootloader. When I look at guides they all seem to say first unlock bootloader if you do that you can't go to step 2.
In short can those of us on Verizon 7.1.2 devices with a locked bootloader get TWRP root and custom ROMs?
I'm willing to try things and don't expect handouts. I just need a little guidance on where to start or someone to say yup you're sol.
No
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk
If you can't slide the OEM Unlock button in dev options you are done. You cannot root or flash TWRP or anything else. No, I do not believe there will be a method to unlock it in the future.
Thank you both for the answers. Confirmed what I thought but didn't want to believe.
You may be able to put a sim from another provider and see if it lets you slide the toggle
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk
tttuning said:
You may be able to put a sim from another provider and see if it lets you slide the toggle
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Click to collapse
Nope.
This is a longshot as I have been out of the ROM game for a while... but would "upgrading" to the beta of Android O (soon to be 8.0) and then flashing a stock image back (un-enrolling) would that be able to drop the phone down to 7.1.0?
As I said...I may just be talking out my ass here.....
cirenj said:
This is a longshot as I have been out of the ROM game for a while... but would "upgrading" to the beta of Android O (soon to be 8.0) and then flashing a stock image back (un-enrolling) would that be able to drop the phone down to 7.1.0?
As I said...I may just be talking out my ass here.....
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Click to collapse
No. It will bring you back to the latest security release.
toknitup420 said:
No. It will bring you back to the latest security release.
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Click to collapse
Can confirm this since the rollout OTA reverted me back to 7.1.2 with June's security.
I'm on 8.0 now, and OEM Unlock is still greyed out, even when I try to turn on with the sim card removed, and my "Android Security Patch Level" is May 05, 2017.... so still beyond what any of the bootloader unlocking methods have worked on....
cirenj said:
I'm on 8.0 now, and OEM Unlock is still greyed out, even when I try to turn on with the sim card removed, and my "Android Security Patch Level" is May 05, 2017.... so still beyond what any of the bootloader unlocking methods have worked on....
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Click to collapse
You can sell the phone and then buy a Google version. That's the way to unlock your bootloader, the only way. And please don't let others tell you to say something is wrong with the device and return it if there is really nothing wrong. It's fraud and not well received on these forums. Your choices are to either sell it or live with it.
I am returning my Verizon phone as I just bought one right from Google... (anyone know where they ship the phones from?) Is there a special sequence in booting up for the first time to make sure the bootloader can be unlocked and VZW doesn't mess with it?
cirenj said:
I am returning my Verizon phone as I just bought one right from Google... (anyone know where they ship the phones from?) Is there a special sequence in booting up for the first time to make sure the bootloader can be unlocked and VZW doesn't mess with it?
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Click to collapse
If you buy it from Google there are no issues. You can do whatever you want, put in any sim, flash any image.
Sent from my Pixel using XDA-Developers Legacy app
Damn...My Google Pixel was shipped today...but FedEx wont deliver it until Monday.... GRRR....
Yup sell or live with it. We can only blame ourselves for not researching before we bought from Verizon.
Me I'm gonna live with it and sell when pixel 2 comes out most likely.
bobby janow said:
You can sell the phone and then buy a Google version. That's the way to unlock your bootloader, the only way. And please don't let others tell you to say something is wrong with the device and return it if there is really nothing wrong. It's fraud and not well received on these forums. Your choices are to either sell it or live with it.
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Click to collapse
philo_ said:
Yup sell or live with it. We can only blame ourselves for not researching before we bought from Verizon.
Me I'm gonna live with it and sell when pixel 2 comes out most likely.
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Click to collapse
I wound up here in this thread after seeing promos pop up recently for discounts Verizon is offering on the Pixel and XL on the order of $269, as well as giving you a 100% rebate on a new Google Home as part of the package. I don't see a comparable promotion when buying directly from Google. I'm less than 2 years into our current phones, but wife and daughter are having problems with theirs, so I've been considering early replacements.
So - getting a 128GB XL via Verizon appears $269 cheaper than via Google, and I'd get a $129 rebate (6 weeks out?) if I purchase a new Google Home (already have 3 -- that's enough, but I guess I could sell the new one). Verizon's discount comes in the form of a monthly rebate, with the full credit being applied over 24 months. Not terrible, I guess, if you plan to stay with Verizon (I'm going to: I consult, and travel all over the country, and need the coverage), but annoying.
Then there's the whole issue of the locked bootloader. Sorry in advance for not being up to date on this and perhaps asking an obvious question: I know the boatloader issue would prevent rooting, and I imagine custom ROMs -- but do Verizon-branded Pixel's get all the same Android updates directly from Google as Pixels do that are unlocked, purchased directly from Google?
(please don't sneer when you see that I'm running a Droid Turbo 2! I had to replace 4 phones a year and a half ago, and the available promotions back then made it possible to get them each for $300 - a deal I couldn't afford to pass up at the time! )
Jon
Basically it comes down to this:
Verizon can screw you anyway they want. Nothing you can do. Deceptive advertising, No real service through 95% of the areas they say is great, locked bootloader on the "Google Phone" that everyone gets to have pure Android and not F%$ed with.
But, you try and do anything to it, OMG... might as well be in jail for killing someone.
When will we stop the power of these media companies?
Sorry, had to reply, I'm just so fed up with the adds, the false deals, the F%*king lies....
---------- Post added at 02:41 AM ---------- Previous post was at 02:38 AM ----------
philo_ said:
Yup sell or live with it. We can only blame ourselves for not researching before we bought from Verizon.
Me I'm gonna live with it and sell when pixel 2 comes out most likely.
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Click to collapse
So it's our fault they ripped us off and decided "Their Rules" apply?
No, not gonna buy it. Not gonna stand for it.
This is the attitude that got us here.
F*%$ YOU Verizon.
Stop buying their products?
Yeah, I know you can say nothing we can do, and there really is not much, but every bit counts.
scrufy said:
Basically it comes down to this:
Verizon can screw you anyway they want. Nothing you can do. Deceptive advertising, No real service through 95% of the areas they say is great, locked bootloader on the "Google Phone" that everyone gets to have pure Android and not F%$ed with.
But, you try and do anything to it, OMG... might as well be in jail for killing someone.
When will we stop the power of these media companies?
Sorry, had to reply, I'm just so fed up with the adds, the false deals, the F%*king lies....
---------- Post added at 02:41 AM ---------- Previous post was at 02:38 AM ----------
So it's our fault they ripped us off and decided "Their Rules" apply?
No, not gonna buy it. Not gonna stand for it.
This is the attitude that got us here.
F*%$ YOU Verizon.
Stop buying their products?
Yeah, I know you can say nothing we can do, and there really is not much, but every bit counts.
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Click to collapse
They didn't rip you off. You got the device you wanted. And you knowingly bought it from Verizon whom is known to lock down devices. They never sold it with the promises that you could unlock the bootloader and flash whatever you want. Don't get me wrong I hate vzw as much as the next guy. But they didn't use false advertising to sell this device. And if you want pure Android that's untouched then you should be buying directly from Google. Not from VERIZON.
To add to this, I have pretty much exhausted all methods, and it appears that if the phone came from Verizon, without a hack, there is no possible way to OEM Unlock! Here are the facts that I have;
1. I'm on firmware 7.1.2 - NJH47F - which is the non-Verizon firmware from the stock image download page
2. I have tried with both AT&T and T-Mobile SIM's
3. I chatted with Google Support, there is nothing they can do
4. I chatted with Verizon Tech support, there is nothing they can do (supposedly)
If it comes from Verizon, and you are past 7.1 then you cannot use dePixel8...
I can't believe there is no one willing to find even a temp Root exploit and find a way to mod the bootloader.img, even with a substantial bounty out there! I'd add $50 to it at this point!
my dumbass screwed up and purchased the verizon one by accident. and was wondering if anyone has heard or seen the bootloader unlocked anywhere. ive googled but keep getting pixel 1 threads
Nope.
Return it for refund, then order a non VZW version.
Ah. The tragic tales continue. Return it.
wtherrell said:
Ah. The tragic tales continue. Return it.
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ya looks like thats the plan. re ordering today. using my note 8 in the mean time i guess.....
Guess no one is buying from verizon since they cut the price down by 50%.....lol
lucky_strike33 said:
Guess no one is buying from verizon since they cut the price down by 50%.....lol
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They could not give me me one free of charge (if I had to keep it for my DD.) If I can't unlock the bootloader, I don't want it. But that's just me and a bunch of other people. YMMV.
imtjnotu said:
ya looks like thats the plan. re ordering today. using my note 8 in the mean time i guess.....
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How did you like it in comparison to the note 8? I currently have the note (despite always being a nexus guy and a Samsung hater) and I love it. But still tempted by the pixel.
wtherrell said:
They could not give me me one free of charge (if I had to keep it for my DD.) If I can't unlock the bootloader, I don't want it. But that's just me and a bunch of other people. YMMV.
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Click to collapse
I really don't think you have much to worry about then. Personally, I'd take a dozen of them and give them out to everyone I know since no one I know even knows what a bootloader is, no less root.
I have a VZW Pixel locked bootloader and I have no regrets. I recently had to return the one I got for $240 over 2 years for a warranty replacement. They sent me another Verizon model but I could unlock it this time. Must have slipped thru the cracks. I did flip the switch but I won't unlock it until I no longer have it on a network at which point I'd play around with stuff and not worry about performance or soft bricks. I've found no real reason to unlock it while using it as my DD.
But as you say, that's just you and this is just me. Neither of us is right or wrong, it's just how we do things these days. I will not pay $650 just to have a device that I can bl unlock when I won't unlock it anyway. Under $300 and $360 for the 2 XL is a tremendous deal. Other than on XDA I doubt there are many who even care about bl at those prices. You won't get that from Google and maybe not even from Verizon this year. We'll see.
---------- Post added at 09:45 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:43 AM ----------
lucky_strike33 said:
Guess no one is buying from verizon since they cut the price down by 50%.....lol
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Click to collapse
Not yet but hopefully soon.
My bet is there will never be a bootloader exploit for the VZW bootloader's. This time I went direct with Google.
I ordered a Pixel 2 XL from Verizon last night about 9:00pm and already have it in my hands and activated. I'm not one of those that has to have an unlockable bootloader either. I purchased from Verizon because it was 50% off by trading in my Verizon Moto Z Force. Lately I've switched camps from must have unlockable bootloader to don't want unlocked bootloader. I prefer to remain stock and take OTA's without issues. My past experiences have taught me that the stock software untampered with performs better and more reliably than any 3rd party ROM ever will. My only reason for unlocking to begin with was ad blocking and removing unwanted apps. You can block ads with "VPN Hosts" app on an unrooted phone and I don't feel the need to remove software any more. I just don't open what I don't use. I haven't tried to unlock the bootloader on this new phone but I suspect you cannot.
pieman13 said:
How did you like it in comparison to the note 8? I currently have the note (despite always being a nexus guy and a Samsung hater) and I love it. But still tempted by the pixel.
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You just described me! I have both right now and honestly I think my pixel xl 2 is going back, never thought id be thinking like that
capsnbottles said:
You just described me! I have both right now and honestly I think my pixel xl 2 is going back, never thought id be thinking like that
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Click to collapse
I know, the note is an amazing device. I keep thinking I'm nuts by sticking with it but it's kinda flawless.
pieman13 said:
I know, the note is an amazing device. I keep thinking I'm nuts by sticking with it but it's kinda flawless.
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Click to collapse
I use the pixel as a toy and to play around with roms. Ill probably save a few hundred bucks and buy the 5t this week, and use the note for my dd
capsnbottles said:
I use the pixel as a toy and to play around with roms. Ill probably save a few hundred bucks and buy the 5t this week, and use the note for my dd
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Click to collapse
That's what I use my op3t for. I just went into a Verizon store and played with the pixel, took a few indoor shots and compared them. I'm no longer looking for a pixel.
pieman13 said:
That's what I use my op3t for. I just went into a Verizon store and played with the pixel, took a few indoor shots and compared them. I'm no longer looking for a pixel.
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I've never owned a one plus, excited about the 5t. How are they?
capsnbottles said:
I've never owned a one plus, excited about the 5t. How are they?
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Click to collapse
Very hit or miss. The quality control is poor. If had each except the five. Two of my kids still using my old ones and they are holding up well but it's a total lottery. That's been my experience with every model they have released.
foopy said:
I ordered a Pixel 2 XL from Verizon last night about 9:00pm and already have it in my hands and activated. I'm not one of those that has to have an unlockable bootloader either. I purchased from Verizon because it was 50% off by trading in my Verizon Moto Z Force. Lately I've switched camps from must have unlockable bootloader to don't want unlocked bootloader. I prefer to remain stock and take OTA's without issues. My past experiences have taught me that the stock software untampered with performs better and more reliably than any 3rd party ROM ever will. My only reason for unlocking to begin with was ad blocking and removing unwanted apps. You can block ads with "VPN Hosts" app on an unrooted phone and I don't feel the need to remove software any more. I just don't open what I don't use. I haven't tried to unlock the bootloader on this new phone but I suspect you cannot.
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Click to collapse
I'm strongly considering ordering one from VZW because of the current promotion. I had resided to keeping my Pixel XL, but now that I know I can take an old spare phone and get 50% of a new pixel 2 XL, I'm very tempted. I have a Pixel XL with an unlocked bootloader, but it's been unrooted for at least the last 8 months and I haven't otherwise taken advantage of the unlocked bootloader so I don't think I'd miss it. I love the stock ROM, the seamless update process, and decreased vulnerability.
mlin said:
I'm strongly considering ordering one from VZW because of the current promotion. I had resided to keeping my Pixel XL, but now that I know I can take an old spare phone and get 50% of a new pixel 2 XL, I'm very tempted. I have a Pixel XL with an unlocked bootloader, but it's been unrooted for at least the last 8 months and I haven't otherwise taken advantage of the unlocked bootloader so I don't think I'd miss it. I love the stock ROM, the seamless update process, and decreased vulnerability.
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Click to collapse
There is one thing about the Pixel 2 XL you need to be aware of. The screen colors are pale and not very vivid. As a result the display does not look as good as other phones. Do some research on that before you buy to make sure you can live with it. I'm ok with it but I'm sure others may not be.
foopy said:
There is one thing about the Pixel 2 XL you need to be aware of. The screen colors are pale and not very vivid. As a result the display does not look as good as other phones. Do some research on that before you buy to make sure you can live with it. I'm ok with it but I'm sure others may not be.
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With saturated color mode, it definitely is not too pale. Actually, that mode is too saturated to me, but some people like it that way
beezar said:
With saturated color mode, it definitely is not too pale. Actually, that mode is too saturated to me, but some people like it that way
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LOL I just got the update a few minutes ago.that's the first thing I tested. Saturated mode does improve the colors, at least in my opinion.
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.
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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/
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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?
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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.
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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?
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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.
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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!!!
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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.
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.
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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?
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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.
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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
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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!
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What he said ^^
galaxys said:
Don't get a locked device, especially if you're hanging out on XDA!
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
I have the UK Exynos variant (SM-S901B) of the S22. I have tried for about 2 weeks everything I've found about how to get the OEM Unlock option to appear, and nothing has worked. I've played with the dates, reflashed the stock ROM, and even actually waiting 8 whole days with the phone powered on the whole time. Nada.
To be clear, I can see the OEM Unlock option if I go into Developer Options immediately upon boot. I can then toggle and untoggle it all I like, but the option then disappears (if I back out and then return into Developer Options, OEM Unlock is gone). Attempting to unlock the bootloader fails regardless. Unless anyone has any other ideas, I've given up on being able to root this phone.
My question is if I sell the S22, what phone should I get instead? People don't seem to be as happy as I had expected with the Pixel 6 Pro. Any other suggestions for a new phone? The going rate on Swappa for a mint condition S22 is about $550. I don't want to put any more money into it. Must be rootable!
I found another thread with a UK variant having this issue in June.
Link here: Unable to unlock bootloader Samsung Galaxy S22 SM-S901B/DS
Yuna said:
> "Custom binary (VBMETA) blocked due to remaining installment balance"
That's seems like another layer of protection by Samsung, so that you first pay off the loan for the phone, and then you can root it.
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At the current last post of the thread dated Jul 21, 2022, the OP is still stuck.
post-mortem said:
My question is if I sell the S22, what phone should I get instead? People don't seem to be as happy as I had expected with the Pixel 6 Pro. Any other suggestions for a new phone? The going rate on Swappa for a mint condition S22 is about $550. I don't want to put any more money into it. Must be rootable!
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Click to collapse
The Pixel 6 Pro is not nearly as buggy or awful as people would have you believe.
Remember, the vast majority of online comments and reviews are by hardcore fans expecting perfection OR midwits who think they're really tech savvy and aren't.
If you can actually get $550 for you S22 right now, DON'T HESITATE. Do it while the value is great.
The worst case scenario with a Pixel 6 is that you will have a new one that you can use to immediately trade-in for high value at Pixel 7 launch or with the S23 series if you want to try that.
vonDubenshire said:
If you can actually get $550 for you S22 right now, DON'T HESITATE. Do it while the value is great.
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I saw that thread, and it took away much of the hope I had. I also read reports that installing Android 12 made people lose the ability to root. I think Samsung must have done something evil to us.
I'll be upgrading from an OG Pixel, so I'll probably be happy with another Pixel. I hadn't used Odin since my SGS3, and I'd really rather stick to vanilla Android. It's so much easier to flash.
God, if only I had known! NIB S22's are going for over $800 on Swappa.
post-mortem said:
I saw that thread, and it took away much of the hope I had. I also read reports that installing Android 12 made people lose the ability to root. I think Samsung must have done something evil to us.
I'll be upgrading from an OG Pixel, so I'll probably be happy with another Pixel. I hadn't used Odin since my SGS3, and I'd really rather stick to vanilla Android. It's so much easier to flash.
God, if only I had known! NIB S22's are going for over $800 on Swappa.
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Click to collapse
Gonna DM you!