So i recently noticed that they made a “Google Edition” of the Pixel XL. However I can seem to find out what the difference is between the Google Edition and the Non-Google Edition. Was hoping someone on here may be able to tell me what and if there is any differences.
Silicon Knight said:
So i recently noticed that they made a “Google Edition” of the Pixel XL. However I can seem to find out what the difference is between the Google Edition and the Non-Google Edition. Was hoping someone on here may be able to tell me what and if there is any differences.
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These are devices sold by Google itself as opposed to from a carrier like Verizon.
The Verizon versions were initially not bootloader unlockable except by Verizon staff or a person charging $30 on eBay, until somebody found out the method being used.
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Im not sure if there has been a change or what, but I opened my pixel support app, chatted with support about the issues I have been having and they are handling the exchange for me directly without verizon. Anyone else have this experience? I am hoping this way I get a quality device and maybe it might be a google branded device.
It happens somewhat often. Was the same way with the OG Pixels. Some folks got a Google version, most get a VZ version from Google. I hope you score.
My pixel 1 was a Verizon one and I went through Google for warranty and received a Google version
Please mention all the differences as i am planning to buy pixel 3 from US and use in India.
I heard only difference is verizon's one - Bootloader Not Unlockable
Google's oan - Bootloader Unlockable
Rest everything is same? SW is same? features and recieve updates at the same time ? Can i use in India's Jio or Airtel VolTE ? or atleast can i flash india's OS/ROM on it? because earlier when i bought Verison S7 i could not do anything though it is SD Edition & India Exynos Edition.
Does both are identical except the Bootloader thing ?
satish.yarramsetti said:
Please mention all the differences as i am planning to buy pixel 3 from US and use in India.
Does both are identical except the Bootloader thing ?
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Since Google published a different image for Verizon, I would have to say they are not identical. My guess would be something different in the radios.
mikexda said:
Since Google published a different image for Verizon, I would have to say they are not identical. My guess would be something different in the radios.
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I assume the Verizon images are just prebloated with Verizon's crap.
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk
superchilpil said:
I assume the Verizon images are just prebloated with Verizon's crap.
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While that is certainly possible, I would like to to believe Google would not do that in a factory image. But you never know.
superchilpil said:
I assume the Verizon images are just prebloated with Verizon's crap.
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk
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I only ever received the VZW apps on the first boot of my phone with the VZW SIM installed. The factory images don't install the apps again, or at least didn't on the Pixel 1 XL or Pixel 2 XL. I believe the changes are related to radio as there are usually a few different carrier variants (or have been in the past), but sometimes they are bundled into things like:
Verizon/Everyone Else
Verizon/Europe
etc.
Verizon is still considering SIM-locking the Pixel 3 lineup if purchased from Verizon. You can always put a Verizon SIM in an unlocked Pixel purchased from the Google Play Store if you want to be sure you have options to change carriers at some point.
On the OG XL, I believe Radios were the only difference besides bootloader lock. Maybe the My Verizon app as well.
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk
You could try looking in another thread about this here:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-3-xl/help/verizon-vs-unlocked-google-pixel-t3870927
It may have the solution you're looking for
Hello folks,
I am sorry for adding one more question to this dilemma?
I just got a refurb Pixel XL from ebay. I specifically told the seller that I am looking for a google version and not verizon but it seems, they sent me Verizon version as OEM Unlocking is grayed out in Developer options. Is that the only test there is to figure out if its Verizon or Unlocked google phone?
One of the threads linked http://www.imeipro.info/check_lg.html but it doesn't recognize IMEI of the phone I received.
Finally, I found this thread, https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-xl/how-to/how-to-unlock-bootloader-verizon-pixel-t3796030 Can these instructions be used for a Verizon device running Android Pie/9.0? If yes, I will keep the device as its in pristine condition.
Thanks in advance, for all helpful comments.
You can unlock the bootloader on Verizon yes.
fuzzychicken said:
Hello folks,
I am sorry for adding one more question to this dilemma?
I just got a refurb Pixel XL from ebay. I specifically told the seller that I am looking for a google version and not verizon but it seems, they sent me Verizon version as OEM Unlocking is grayed out in Developer options. Is that the only test there is to figure out if its Verizon or Unlocked google phone?
One of the threads linked http://www.imeipro.info/check_lg.html but it doesn't recognize IMEI of the phone I received.
Finally, I found this thread, https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-xl/how-to/how-to-unlock-bootloader-verizon-pixel-t3796030 Can these instructions be used for a Verizon device running Android Pie/9.0? If yes, I will keep the device as its in pristine condition.
Thanks in advance, for all helpful comments.
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I actually bought an XL off eBay and sent it back as it was a Verizon, confirmed with a Google rep, and didn't know I could unlock the bootloader.
I bought another one and it was also a Verizon, but I did follow the guide after updating to Pie and it still works great. Now I'm fully rooted nad bootloader is unlocked.
Would unlocking the bootloader on a Verizon version essentially make it a normal Google Pixel XL? Any other differences? I want to use a Verizon Pixel for AT&T.
bobjohnson1221 said:
Would unlocking the bootloader on a Verizon version essentially make it a normal Google Pixel XL? Any other differences? I want to use a Verizon Pixel for AT&T.
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No device difference. You would just use a GSM SIM for AT&T of course.
I just bought a pixel xl of 128gb, what is the exact way to know if it is a verizon version?
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk
So if I'm shopping for a used Pixel XL, how can I tell with models have an unlockable bootloader?
I had previously read that only Play Store editions are unlockable, so I was surprised to see this thread say Verizon is unlockable.
Th3DaRk_Vampire said:
I just bought a pixel xl of 128gb, what is the exact way to know if it is a verizon version?
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk
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To see if your phone is Verizon, go here ( https://www.verizonwireless.com/od/prepaid/bring-your-own-device/?imei=352630085164358#/checkDevice) and enter your IMEI. You'll get one of two responses:
If it's a Verizon phone, it will say "Awesome, your Google Pixel XL, Phone by Google is a perfect match for our network.."
If it's not Verizon, it will say "Awesome, your Google PIXEL XL NON-VZW is a perfect match for our network."
Hi,
I have a Note 9 N960U that is locked down, and I hate everything about it. Namely bought it for the stylus, and was very happy with my Note 4 before it was stolen. Pretty much had it, want a top shelf new phone that I can mod as I please.
I'm about to pull the trigger on buying a Pixel 3 XL (and sell the note 9), but there's some confusing things i've read about it thus far. I use Verizon, and lifehacker claims (won't let me link URL due to post count) that you may purchase a phone completely unlocked for VZW thru google store. I also read in a news feed that VZW suspended locking their phones due to customer complaints. Things are changing. I unlocked a VZW note 4 and it was a royal pain in the ass I wish to avoid doing ever again.
Basically, I am asking what applies at the moment: Pixel 3 XL still unlocked from google store? Still very easy to root / replace rom? Is there a certain model or software build I should look for?
Any suggestions are also appreciated. I wish to stay with VZW due to network coverage. Sorry for the rookie question; I'm not really in the loop keeping up with this
arcgear said:
Hi,
I have a Note 9 N960U that is locked down, and I hate everything about it. Namely bought it for the stylus, and was very happy with my Note 4 before it was stolen. Pretty much had it, want a top shelf new phone that I can mod as I please.
I'm about to pull the trigger on buying a Pixel 3 XL (and sell the note 9), but there's some confusing things i've read about it thus far. I use Verizon, and lifehacker claims (won't let me link URL due to post count) that you may purchase a phone completely unlocked for VZW thru google store. I also read in a news feed that VZW suspended locking their phones due to customer complaints. Things are changing. I unlocked a VZW note 4 and it was a royal pain in the ass I wish to avoid doing ever again.
Basically, I am asking what applies at the moment: Pixel 3 XL still unlocked from google store? Still very easy to root / replace rom? Is there a certain model or software build I should look for?
Any suggestions are also appreciated. I wish to stay with VZW due to network coverage. Sorry for the rookie question; I'm not really in the loop keeping up with this
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Click to collapse
Yes always buy from Google if you want an unlocked bootloader. Don't buy from Verizon.
No problems rooting and such. You are free to do what you want for your phone.
lucky_strike33 said:
Yes always buy from Google if you want an unlocked bootloader. Don't buy from Verizon.
No problems rooting and such. You are free to do what you want for your phone.
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As long as you buy directly from the Google store and get the Google International Unlocked Version (not the Verizon version), you will be able to use it on any carrier in the world and will be able to unlock the bootloader and root the phone till your heart is content. You will also be able to flash custom ROMs etc...However, If you buy the Verizon version of the Google Pixel 3 XL, it is locked and you will probably never be able to root it or unlock the bootloader.
arcgear said:
Hi,
I have a Note 9 N960U that is locked down, and I hate everything about it. Namely bought it for the stylus, and was very happy with my Note 4 before it was stolen. Pretty much had it, want a top shelf new phone that I can mod as I please.
I'm about to pull the trigger on buying a Pixel 3 XL (and sell the note 9), but there's some confusing things i've read about it thus far. I use Verizon, and lifehacker claims (won't let me link URL due to post count) that you may purchase a phone completely unlocked for VZW thru google store. I also read in a news feed that VZW suspended locking their phones due to customer complaints. Things are changing. I unlocked a VZW note 4 and it was a royal pain in the ass I wish to avoid doing ever again.
Basically, I am asking what applies at the moment: Pixel 3 XL still unlocked from google store? Still very easy to root / replace rom? Is there a certain model or software build I should look for?
Any suggestions are also appreciated. I wish to stay with VZW due to network coverage. Sorry for the rookie question; I'm not really in the loop keeping up with this
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Regarding Verizon stopping locking due to complaints, that is simply regarding carrier locking. Verizon is definitely still bootloader locked, and there is little hope of that being exploited since anyone who wants it enough can just buy the BL unlockable version from Google and pay the price.
arcgear said:
Hi,
I have a Note 9 N960U that is locked down, and I hate everything about it. Namely bought it for the stylus, and was very happy with my Note 4 before it was stolen. Pretty much had it, want a top shelf new phone that I can mod as I please.
I'm about to pull the trigger on buying a Pixel 3 XL (and sell the note 9), but there's some confusing things i've read about it thus far. I use Verizon, and lifehacker claims (won't let me link URL due to post count) that you may purchase a phone completely unlocked for VZW thru google store. I also read in a news feed that VZW suspended locking their phones due to customer complaints. Things are changing. I unlocked a VZW note 4 and it was a royal pain in the ass I wish to avoid doing ever again.
Basically, I am asking what applies at the moment: Pixel 3 XL still unlocked from google store? Still very easy to root / replace rom? Is there a certain model or software build I should look for?
Any suggestions are also appreciated. I wish to stay with VZW due to network coverage. Sorry for the rookie question; I'm not really in the loop keeping up with this
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are two forms of unlocking talked about.
The articles you are reading are about SIM unlocking so you can buy it from VZ and use it on another carrier.
For rooting you need an unlockable bootloader. You can only get that from Google directly. It will work fine on VZ, it is what I have.
Pay attention when you buy it, Google offers the Google version and the VZ version in their store. You want the Google version.
thanks for the replies. I put in an order for the 3 XL with non-defined carrier direct from Google
Can't wait to be rid of these horse**** factory ROMs, bloatware, and incessant advertising crammed down our collective throats. Last time I needed to contact VZW concerning my account, the phone forced me into the bloat app, then into a telephone loop where it callously hung up on me because I needed something not on the defined menu
Almost ended up with a hole in my living room drywall in the shape of a $1,000 samsung handset. Why do people put up with this.
arcgear said:
thanks for the replies. I put in an order for the 3 XL with non-defined carrier direct from Google
Can't wait to be rid of these horse**** factory ROMs, bloatware, and incessant advertising crammed down our collective throats. Last time I needed to contact VZW concerning my account, the phone forced me into the bloat app, then into a telephone loop where it callously hung up on me because I needed something not on the defined menu
Almost ended up with a hole in my living room drywall in the shape of a $1,000 samsung handset. Why do people put up with this.
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You won't regret your decision. I've had Pixel 3XL since it came out and can't imagine how I put up with Samsung's locked down ecosystem for over 8 years of my life.
I see a lot of attempts to unlock the Verizon Pixel XLs bootloader, some seem to work sometimes, some do not
I'm in the market for a new original Pixel XL. It's only going to be used over wifi, so I do not care what model or networks it's on, etc.
What should I look for in a device if I want it to be the easiest possible one to unlock the bootloader? Are there versions of the pixel xl that *come* with an unlocked bootloader?
phnord said:
I see a lot of attempts to unlock the Verizon Pixel XLs bootloader, some seem to work sometimes, some do not
I'm in the market for a new original Pixel XL. It's only going to be used over wifi, so I do not care what model or networks it's on, etc.
What should I look for in a device if I want it to be the easiest possible one to unlock the bootloader? Are there versions of the pixel xl that *come* with an unlocked bootloader?
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The Pixel XL is 5-6 years old. Not much chance of finding a new one. None come bootloader unlocked unless used. Only ones bought from Google store instead of Verizon are for sure bootloader unlockable.
Tulsadiver said:
The Pixel XL is 5-6 years old. Not much chance of finding a new one. None come bootloader unlocked unless used. Only ones bought from Google store instead of Verizon are for sure bootloader unlockable.
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Thanks, but only the last bit is relevant to my question
I am aware of how old the Pixel XL is. I am aware that I'm getting a refurbished or used one. Thanks.
So from what I am hearing, then, the ones Verizon sold still have issues with the bootloader unlock, whereas the ones Google sold are easy to bootloader unlock. And those were the only two sources?
Is there a way to distinguish between the two? Is there a different model number, serial number range, etc.?
THAT is the question I'm asking. Not whether I can get it new...?
phnord said:
Thanks, but only the last bit is relevant to my question
I am aware of how old the Pixel XL is. I am aware that I'm getting a refurbished or used one. Thanks.
So from what I am hearing, then, the ones Verizon sold still have issues with the bootloader unlock, whereas the ones Google sold are easy to bootloader unlock. And those were the only two sources?
Is there a way to distinguish between the two? Is there a different model number, serial number range, etc.?
THAT is the question I'm asking. Not whether I can get it new...?
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Click to collapse
I just bought a new google one off ebay, they are still out there, you just might have to hunt a little and take a bit of a chance.
Probably don't go with the phones4all seller however, though new he seems to be selling what are original verizon models though carrier unlocked.
On the Pixel 2 forums people have been able to distinguish between verizon and google by contacting google w phone info, I don't know if there's any other good way.