Develop Bugs

Worth the RMA?

Hey everyone. Simple questions. First, is the Pixel XL worth upgrading to from the Nexus 6P with the RMA that is being done right now? Second, where is all the development? Was the Pixel XL tough to begin development for or did not many devs take to it? I run RR now but used PN before it for a while (amongst others). I see PN exists here too but not a lot of other ROMs, unless I'm missing them.
Anyway, the short of it is this. Is it worth taking the upgrade instead of a refurbished and is there enough active development for someone that enjoys flashing and trying things?
Any info is appreciated. Thanks!
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

It's an expensive device. That's one barrier for active development.
The new a/b update. That's another problem.
Take the upgrade. Sell it, buy something else. Like the oneplus

wgrant said:
Hey everyone. Simple questions. First, is the Pixel XL worth upgrading to from the Nexus 6P with the RMA that is being done right now? Second, where is all the development? Was the Pixel XL tough to begin development for or did not many devs take to it? I run RR now but used PN before it for a while (amongst others). I see PN exists here too but not a lot of other ROMs, unless I'm missing them.
Anyway, the short of it is this. Is it worth taking the upgrade instead of a refurbished and is there enough active development for someone that enjoys flashing and trying things?
Any info is appreciated. Thanks!
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Definitely a matter of opinion and preference. I know the seemingly lack of development is in part because a lot of teams I assume are either working on an Oreo rebase or waiting for the Pixel 2 perhaps? The other reason is the dual-partitions / A-B slots which is why there's been issues with TWRP and GAPPS I believe. It does seem like there's a lot of the same ROMs available as the 6P, just 7.1.2 instead of 8.0.
just got my replacement Pixel XL last week and I had run RR on my 6P for the longest time, but shortly before returning it I had been using Oreo with just a handful of mods, so switching to the XL and doing the same wasn't too drastic a change. The screen being smaller is hardly noticeable to me. The dual front-facing speakers are missed, but the phone being way more responsive and smooth is a fair trade off for me since I didn't listen to music too often through the speakers.
If you do like to hop around from ROM to ROM a lot this phone might leave a little to be desired, but if you plan on just using Oreo with some mods (check out the themes and apps section, I'm using the Aroma installer mods by Tulsadiver) then you will probably be content. Honestly, I plan on trying to sell it on Swappa shortly after the Pixel 2 XL comes out so I wasn't too worried about the amount of ROM choices and was glad to get the free upgrade even if just for a month or two till I get the Pixel 2 XL.

I'd take the RMA if for no other reason than the Pixel is a far superior device. If you really have a need to constantly flash and try things then it may not be the best device for you. If you want the best experience Android has to offer out of the box, then look no further than the Pixel.

I certainly don't HAVE to jump from ROM to ROM but the option from time to time would be nice. I have been interested in Oreo but haven't tried it yet on 6P. Is rooting difficult for the Pixel XL? I haven't heard about the A/B slot thing, I'll have to do more research tomorrow. Thanks guys!
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

wgrant said:
I certainly don't HAVE to jump from ROM to ROM but the option from time to time would be nice. I have been interested in Oreo but haven't tried it yet on 6P. Is rooting difficult for the Pixel XL? I haven't heard about the A/B slot thing, I'll have to do more research tomorrow. Thanks guys!
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk
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I'm sure here soon there will be more ROM options once everyone gets Oreo up and running and gets the kinks worked out. And rooting and unlocking isn't really difficult, but a different experience from the 6P that's for sure. One downside to Oreo right now is that there's no officially supported TWRP aside from a bootable version you have to use fastboot / bootloader to get into it. So depending on how often you're around a computer, that may or may not be an issue. Supposedly some people have the RC1 or RC2 versions of TWRP working so you don't need the PC, but it takes 10-15+ minutes for it to reboot into recovery. Haven't tried for myself though.

if you already havent done it, your too late https://www.androidheadlines.com/20...ds-out-of-warranty-nexus-6p-replacements.html
Luckily i got my RMA last week

TheAtheistOtaku said:
if you already havent done it, your too late https://www.androidheadlines.com/20...ds-out-of-warranty-nexus-6p-replacements.html
Luckily i got my RMA last week
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well that's just if you're out of warranty they direct you to Huawei (brick wall) so that they can hang up on you

Does that also count for Project Fi customers? You would think they would want to make them happy.
I was lucky. I got my RMA in last Friday and got my Pixel XL 128g phone today. Totally worth it. No more battery issues and it just looks better.

desdecardo said:
Does that also count for Project Fi customers? You would think they would want to make them happy.
I was lucky. I got my RMA in last Friday and got my Pixel XL 128g phone today. Totally worth it. No more battery issues and it just looks better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pretty sure it's everyone out of the warranty period whether you got it from the Google store or Fi. I got mine last week, contacted them Sun night, and since I still was within the warranty (bought it Nov 2016) and had Nexus Protect on the device it was next day shipping and didn't even have to pay the deductible. I do miss the 6P, but the Pixel is smooth as silk. :good:

I've already been approved for the replacement with a 128GB black Pixel XL, I just haven't processed the order yet. Coming up with the 870 to put on hold is the tough part. I'm pretty sure the replacements stopped for out of warranty units too, not ones still covered. The rep tools me they have almost no refurbished units to use as replacements. I think I might pull the trigger and do the replacement to avoid complete failure on the 6P. It's a shame because I LOVE the 6P.
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

It's so much better I'm not going to bother getting the note 8 or the v30. Makes the 6p seem older than it was. The SD 810 really was a dog. Better photos, which is nuts, much better battery life, all the little parts of the pixel experience, better build quality. Holding out to see what the s9 brings to the table
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

I appreciate all the input everyone, thank you. Now to find a way to put 870+ on hold for a while lol. That's the real dilemma.
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

wgrant said:
I appreciate all the input everyone, thank you. Now to find a way to put 870+ on hold for a while lol. That's the real dilemma.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have a credit card? I contacted Google two days ago due to my 6p battery turning into a potato. They hooked me up with a pixel XL which is on the way.
I used my credit card to put the 800 dollar hold on.

Pain-N-Panic said:
Do you have a credit card? I contacted Google two days ago due to my 6p battery turning into a potato. They hooked me up with a pixel XL which is on the way.
I used my credit card to put the 800 dollar hold on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have one but not with the available balance needed. I wish I could figure out a way but it looks like I'm gonna miss the opportunity to replace my phone at this point.
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

wgrant said:
I have one but not with the available balance needed. I wish I could figure out a way but it looks like I'm gonna miss the opportunity to replace my phone at this point.
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ask them if you can send your phone first.
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

murso74 said:
Ask them if you can send your phone first.
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Click to collapse
That's a good idea. Have them email you the shipping label and ask if you can ship your phone first to avoid the hold charge (assuming you're able to be without a cell phone for a few days.)

Pain-N-Panic said:
That's a good idea. Have them email you the shipping label and ask if you can ship your phone first to avoid the hold charge (assuming you're able to be without a cell phone for a few days.)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
He can print the shipping label, that's how they do the exchange anyway. Google's pretty good at working with people. Tell them your problem. Worst thing that happens is that you're out a phone for a few days
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

Pain-N-Panic said:
That's a good idea. Have them email you the shipping label and ask if you can ship your phone first to avoid the hold charge (assuming you're able to be without a cell phone for a few days.)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tried that and they won't. Talked to 2 different reps too. I have my old note 4 I can fall back on for a few days while I wait if I can get them to do it that way. I'll try again tomorrow.
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

TheAtheistOtaku said:
if you already havent done it, your too late https://www.androidheadlines.com/20...ds-out-of-warranty-nexus-6p-replacements.html
Luckily i got my RMA last week
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, that's just one guy on Reddit who was told no over chat. I used the telephone support on Sunday because my Nexus 6P went into bootloop and they had to "ask the next level support" if they could "give me a warranty exception" but I shipped my Nexus 6P 64 out Sunday and my Pixel XL 128 will be here tomorrow. There were a few others in the Reddit thread who also successfully got a replacement after this supposed "ending" of RMAs.

Verizon bootloader unlock???

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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Click to collapse
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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Click to collapse
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.
Click to expand...
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
Click to expand...
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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Click to collapse
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
Click to expand...
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.
Click to expand...
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
Click to expand...
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.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
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.
Click to expand...
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.
Click to expand...
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.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
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
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
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.

Flashaholic Withdrawals

I check XDA at least 10 times a day hoping there will be something new to flash lol I can't be the only one who does this. I find myself venturing off into the OnePlus 5 forum from time to time just to look at all the development that's going on in there. Salivating and I'm tempted to purchase the OnePlus 5t but I love the Pixel 2 xl. Tuff choices

mackentosh said:
I check XDA at least 10 times a day hoping there will be something new to flash lol I can't be the only one who does this. I find myself venturing off into the OnePlus 5 forum from time to time just to look at all the development that's going on in there. Salivating and I'm tempted to purchase the OnePlus 5t but I love the Pixel 2 xl. Tuff choices
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I find myself checking xda, but mostly the Q&A and discussion threads. I'd probably sell my old 128 GB XL and buy a 5t if it had universal radios like the Pixel since I'm on Verizon. The 2 XL would likely remain my daily driver, mainly because of the fantastic camera which it seems OnePlus can't compare to.

Once you use the pixel 2 camera nothing else is good enough. I had the pixel 2 but sold it, purchased a 5t, and then turned around and sold it 36 hours in for the pixel 2 XL. I couldn't settle without this camera experience.

I'll stay with my Pixel XL 2 flagship! But hey, go for the 5T if that's your buzz...

Does op5t have Android oreo?
---------- Post added at 04:00 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:58 PM ----------
t2jbird said:
Once you use the pixel 2 camera nothing else is good enough. I had the pixel 2 but sold it, purchased a 5t, and then turned around and sold it 36 hours in for the pixel 2 XL. I couldn't settle without this camera experience.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had the same experience but with huawei mate 10 pro,sell it after 24 hours and got back my pixel 2 xl.

I'm in the same crack-flash-aholic boat
Now that I have TWRP, cust kernel, and root on my 2 XL, I'm waiting for Roms.
I'm not interested in the DP versions, so just watching development continue to move forward.
This is the first device I've had in hand prior to any development. It's very cool watching things grow and seeing all the talent, and creativity getting things working (kernels, TWRP, root, etc).
Kudos to everyone involved in getting the development gears turning!

Az Biker said:
I'm in the same crack-flash-aholic boat
Now that I have TWRP, cust kernel, and root on my 2 XL, I'm waiting for Roms.
I'm not interested in the DP versions, so just watching development continue to move forward.
This is the first device I've had in hand prior to any development. It's very cool watching things grow and seeing all the talent, and creativity getting things working (kernels, TWRP, root, etc).
Kudos to everyone involved in getting the development gears turning!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dang AZ, ease up on the crack flashing, and just ride that chopper for a while! :good:

gm007 said:
Does op5t have Android oreo?
---------- Post added at 04:00 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:58 PM ----------
I had the same experience but with huawei mate 10 pro,sell it after 24 hours and got back my pixel 2 xl.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, Oreo yet. Beta coming this month.

t2jbird said:
No, Oreo yet. Beta coming this month.
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Click to collapse
I know,i just referring that the development here is slow cause oreo is a new os and op5t has nougat only for now.

I haven't compiled AOSP from source since Gingerbread, but man...the temptation to try it just to see if it works (and to have something to flash/play with) is getting harder to resist.
Not even sure I could remember how to do it at this point, it's been so long.

I was thinking about this yesterday ironically. I used to flash ROMs a lot back on the Samsung line. Once I got the Pixel XL and XL2 I havent touched either. The stock setup is honestly great as it is. Part of me misses flashing, but like the stability and performance of the Google stock builds. I might be giving up a little with custom kernals but have been completely satisfied with both stock phones.

iceman4357 said:
I was thinking about this yesterday ironically. I used to flash ROMs a lot back on the Samsung line. Once I got the Pixel XL and XL2 I havent touched either. The stock setup is honestly great as it is. Part of me misses flashing, but like the stability and performance of the Google stock builds. I might be giving up a little with custom kernals but have been completely satisfied with both stock phones.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tend to feel the same way about the Pixel line. I flashed a few ROMs on the original XL but stability and performance was never quite up to par with stock. I gave up and have been using stock for about about 10 months now.

Hola
Indeed do I miss my flashing. I have a OP5 that I will be selling soon since I have received my P2XL. As many have mentioned the OnePlus series of phones have become what the original Nexus line was in terms of community affordability and development.
If I can get Pure Nexus on my P2XL then it would be sufficient for me in all honesty, provides the stability and yet extending the functionality and customizations we all crave for. I understand that Nate‏ @BeansTown106 is caught up with some personal stuff and I'm not sure how or if any new development is in the works. This is one of the absolute best custom ROMs one could use. But us users can only wait and see...

This sounds like some sort of AA Thread lol. I also miss flashing. The need for custom ROMS is definitely dwindling though. I am usually okay with a custom kernel and substratum at this point

Stock rooted works fine for me. I do miss the following:
Back to kill app
Volume button to change track
Everything else I'm able to do to my liking.
Adaway works
Magisk works
Substrate works
And little other stock customizations work.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

matt1313 said:
Stock rooted works fine for me. I do miss the following:
Back to kill app
Volume button to change track
Everything else I'm able to do to my liking.
Adaway works
Magisk works
Substrate works
And little other stock customizations work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is the longest I've had any Android device without routing, and I miss only one thing, back to kill.
AdGuard works perfectly, and I'm about to try Substratum, just need to see how to do it.

Sorry all, I have been using custom roms for a long time, I really don't know what goes into making one, so I apologize for my ignorance. I would think that by now there would be some custom roms for this device. Is it normal to take this amount of time to get a Google phone custom roms?thx in advance.

Bigboifrank said:
Sorry all, I have been using custom roms for a long time, I really don't know what goes into making one, so I apologize for my ignorance. I would think that by now there would be some custom roms for this device. Is it normal to take this amount of time to get a Google phone custom roms?thx in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm wondering this as well. I thought it was because of the new display ratio, but those have been out for a while now, AND I was looking around the OP5T forums (because I just got one), and even that has some ROMs posted (though they're kinda alpha-ish), and it came out like a month later. I didn't see a single Pixel 2 XL ROM (and I was so confused I thought I was just somehow missing something).

I check XDA twice a day praying that I'll see Elemental Kernel show up.

gettingerr said:
I check XDA twice a day praying that I'll see Elemental Kernel show up.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Flar2 stated in the nexus 6p forum that it was coming latter this week! :good::good:

Any XL Custom ROM's also have a Pixel variant?

So bummed to be a Pixel owner these days. I don't know if there is a device running android with as little support as there is for the Sailfish. Do any of the Pixel XL custom ROM's also have a Pixel version? I like the phone but am getting so so bored with it. These dual boot partitions are pretty much the kiss of death for development activity, can't say I really blame devs who steer clear. Anyway, was just curious. Thanks to anyone who takes the time to ready the note from my little pity party. :silly:

Jank4AU said:
So bummed to be a Pixel owner these days. I don't know if there is a device running android with as little support as there is for the Sailfish. Do any of the Pixel XL custom ROM's also have a Pixel version? I like the phone but am getting so so bored with it. These dual boot partitions are pretty much the kiss of death for development activity, can't say I really blame devs who steer clear. Anyway, was just curious. Thanks to anyone who takes the time to ready the note from my little pity party. :silly:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How long have you been an Android user? I don't know about you, but coming from eclair, it's come a looooong way. While I love custom roms on most devices, stock Android has gotten really good.

dictionary said:
How long have you been an Android user? I don't know about you, but coming from eclair, it's come a looooong way. While I love custom roms on most devices, stock Android has gotten really good.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@dictionary - I've been on Android since my old HTC Aria (2010 - running eclair also). Yeah, stock is a pretty good experience these days. I just think that like a lot of users I was pretty excited about the prospects of Google putting out this phone, expecting it to be like the Nexus series. There are still some things missing, and I'm not a huge fan of Xposed modules to compensate. This is about the longest I've had a handset in about 5 years without switching, so I do like it. Anyway, think I'll just have to try a different phone next... or, I just get a cheaper, second device to satisfy my flashing whims.

Jank4AU said:
@dictionary - is been on Android since my old HTC Aria (2010 - running eclair also). Yeah, stock is a pretty good experience these days. I just think that like a lot of users I was pretty excited about the prospects of Google putting out this phone, expecting it to be like the Nexus series. There are still some things missing, and I'm not a huge fan of Xposed modules to compensate. This is about the longest I've had a handset in about 5 years without switching, so I do like it. Anyway, think I'll just have to try a different phone next... or, I just get a cheaper, second device to satisfy my flashing whims.
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Click to collapse
I can agree to all that. Next device might be a One Plus build. I had the One Plus One, and actually loved it. Didn't have the screen or other issues others had. Their Dev community is pretty much Nexus One level, so you're covered there. Affordable too. Just pray you don't need to contact them directly lol

dictionary said:
I can agree to all that. Next device might be a One Plus build. I had the One Plus One, and actually loved it. Didn't have the screen or other issues others had. Their Dev community is pretty much Nexus One level, so you're covered there. Affordable too. Just pray you don't need to contact them directly lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've wanted to try a OnePlus but I'm on Verizon. Pretty much none of those Chinese OEM's make CDMA variants of their phones. At least not ones that cover all the VZW LTE bands. The new Huwawei might come to VZW, but it's also priced as a flagship. I'm sort of hoping the Essential community picks up now that the device is basically being given away for a shave and a haircut considering its specs. Not 100% sure if they've followed the same dual boot partition scenario, I know that the Razer phone does. I might hold out to see what LG does. They're dropping the G line and rebranding their flagship.

Jank4AU said:
I've wanted to try a OnePlus but I'm on Verizon. Pretty much none of those Chinese OEM's make CDMA variants of their phones. At least not ones that cover all the VZW LTE bands. The new Huwawei might come to VZW, but it's also priced as a flagship. I'm sort of hoping the Essential community picks up now that the device is basically being given away for a shave and a haircut considering its specs. Not 100% sure if they've followed the same dual boot partition scenario, I know that the Razer phone does. I might hold out to see what LG does. They're dropping the G line and rebranding their flagship.
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Click to collapse
I'd love an Essential Phone. If they come out with another device, and fix their pricing, they may be a contender. I honestly love the LG v30, but would only buy the unlocked version

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.
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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?
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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?
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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.
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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.
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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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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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$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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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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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.