Carrier or Outright from Google?

[Almeuit]

Finances aside, I think it's kind of pointless to get anything other than a Google device (Pixel, Nexus) unlocked / factory direct. I only see two advantages to buying direct:

1. No carrier bloatware
2. Timely updates

For bloatware, you can disable most if not all of it. Out of sight, out of mind. Also, it isn't running in the background so you aren't wasting RAM on processes that you don't want or need. I use My Verizon to manage my account, pay bills, etc. I used Messages+ to backup my SMS when switching phones. But the NFL app? Slacker? Those are disabled as soon as I feel the need to. On my G6 they were all categorized into a folder, so I didn't really see a need to go in there and begin disabling apps. They were already out of the way.

The other "advantage" is more timely updates. Yes, those could happen. But, it is still up to the manufacturer to produce and release those updates. Still don't see Oreo for the G6. Was having my G6 on a security patch several months old frustrating? No, it didn't impact anything. I don't side-load applications and carefully select which apps I install on my phones from the Google Play Store.

The Verizon pixel doesn't come with any bloat. Some had a few apps (3) that can all be fully uninstalled (not just disabled). So no issue there.

Timely updates have been coming out at the same time as Google does it since the Pixel release. Verizon works with Google directly to release them at the same time. Since the Pixel has no bloat (like other "branded" phones) there isn't anything Verizon really has to add to it except ensuring it works with the network.

TBH No real advantage either way... Unless you want to root & ROM. If you want to do that then use the Google store version.

 

[madgalaxy]

Will the VZ Pixel 2 work on ATT? I heard it was unlocked. I have a $250 Best Buy gift card burning a hole in my pocket and the only thing I am really interested in is the Pixel 2 XL.

 

[briareos4]

All Verizon phones from 2015 onward are unlocked. (Mandated by the FCC) simply pop your AT&T SIM in and rock and roll.

 

[Mike Dee]

All Verizon phones from 2015 onward are unlocked. (Mandated by the FCC) simply pop your AT&T SIM in and rock and roll.

Although that's true in general, with some phones you may not get all of the AT&T features.

 

[Almeuit]

Will the VZ Pixel 2 work on ATT? I heard it was unlocked. I have a $250 Best Buy gift card burning a hole in my pocket and the only thing I am really interested in is the Pixel 2 XL.

Yep.

 

[wally]

You can switch between Verizon and FI. Only will be active