B&H is selling the G5 unlocked and as long as it supports the bands needed for LTE, you should be good. My G4 is a global unlocked device and I have LTE on T-Mobile. Not sure about Android pay support since I don't use it.
I'm probably in the minority here, but I don't see the big deal. Just disable them, and then you also have the option to hide any apps you dont want to see.
It was really nice to get an unlocked G4, even with all the Bloat from carriers, you can still disable most i think. hardly noticeable and barely takes up space
Please tell me how I don't have to see the AT&T logo and the stupid direct TV in the notification bar. I have disabled Direct TV and it won't go away. It also continues to be in the notification slide down window. It's is EXTREMELY annoying!