Reverting from Pie to Oreo

[Android Central Question]

I just updated my Pixel XL to Pie, and I have to say, I'm really not a fan. "Overview" is something that might be good on a tablet, but does not work on a smaller device. The weather on the lock screen is both useless and unremovable. The icons look like something designed for a child, while the brightness levels have completely changed.

In short, I want to roll back to Oreo.

I've done some searching, and the only option I've come across involves using a bootloader. I wanted to see if anyone here knew of any better/easier/less invasive ways of restoring Oreo to my phone.

Thanks!

 

[hallux]

You have to completely re-write the OS to the device. It can be done, Google provides the tools to do it, but it IS going to be invasive as you effectively end up with a wiped device and have to set it up from scratch again.

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[WonderZimms]

Thanks, hallux! This is the OP, just created an account.

Do Google's tools require flashing roms, or is there an easier step? I'm not particularly worried about having to do a "set up from scratch," especially if it doesn't involve flashing.

Thanks!

 

[hallux]

Yes, it's effectively flashing a ROM but the tools for doing it are Google-provided when you're dealing with Pixel devices. The term is "factory image".

https://developers.google.com/android/images should have ALL of the info you need. Read everything carefully and decide for yourself if you can follow the steps as outlined. Be sure to have a backup of any data (contacts, pictures, etc) that you need, if it's not already synced to the cloud someplace.

 

[WonderZimms]

Thank you!