Difference Between Verizon and Unlocked Pixel 2XL? - Google Pixel 2 XL Questions & Answers

I am looking to buy a Pixel 2XL 3rd party. I use T-Mobile and this is the Verizon version. I know it'll work on T-Mobile just fine however are there any differences between the Verizon and Unlocked versions such as timely updates?

I dont think so cause from what I've read Verizon people have gotten updates faster than I have. Only thing is if you plan to Unlock/Root but there has been threads saying its able to be done for the regular Pixel but not sure about the 2, I havent looked into the threads much as I have the Google version if I ever decide to do so. To me there really isnt a point to do it because the phone works so well without it.

So far no main difference in the two both. The Verizon one is just sold to the carrier portal but when used on another carrier it works just fine GSM or another CDMA carrier.
R/S
Otechtime
~YouTuber~

The verizon device bootloader cannot be unlocked as far as I know.
That's a rather important difference to note Id say.
Dont waste money on it, buy the google version.
sent from my Pixel 2 XL or Note FE

I think Verizon sells all of its phones locked. Maybe the Pixel 2 XL is different.
Taking a Verizon Pixel 2 XL and using it on a network other than Verizon is probably a lot easier than taking a Pixel 2 XL bought directly from Google as an unlocked phone and using it on Verizon. So luckily you don't have to do that.

jimv1983 said:
I think Verizon sells all of its phones locked. Maybe the Pixel 2 XL is different.
Taking a Verizon Pixel 2 XL and using it on a network other than Verizon is probably a lot easier than taking a Pixel 2 XL bought directly from Google as an unlocked phone and using it on Verizon. So luckily you don't have to do that.
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Click to collapse
Really dude? The VZW XL 2 is locked - hence why there is a bounty thread......
Really dude? It's very easy to use a Google XL on VZW...put sim card in and that's it.

twiz0r said:
Really dude? The VZW XL 2 is locked - hence why there is a bounty thread......
Really dude? It's very easy to use a Google XL on VZW...put sim card in and that's it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Verizon must have changed in the last year or so then. Last time I was looking into Verizon they were really strict.
First of all, at least in the past, the SIM card on Verizon phones only activated the LTE portion of the connection. The CDMA portion used for calls and SMS still used the standard CDMA registration process than Verizon had always used.
Another thing that Verizon does, or used to do, is not allow just any phone on its network. Verizon required (again, his might have changed recently) phones to be provisioned on their network manually and if it wasn't a phone that Verizon sold they would usually say no. That is why phones like the Nexus 5 and Nexus 5X were almost impossible to use on Verizon despite the fact that the hardware was fully compatible with Verizon's network.
I guess Verizon must have changed the way it does things. From what you say simply entering a Verizon SIM card into a compatible unlocked phone will work without Verizon interaction and will register both the CDMA and LTE portions on Verizon's network

jimv1983 said:
Verizon must have changed in the last year or so then. Last time I was looking into Verizon they were really strict.
First of all, at least in the past, the SIM card on Verizon phones only activated the LTE portion of the connection. The CDMA portion used for calls and SMS still used the standard CDMA registration process than Verizon had always used.
Another thing that Verizon does, or used to do, is not allow just any phone on its network. Verizon required (again, his might have changed recently) phones to be provisioned on their network manually and if it wasn't a phone that Verizon sold they would usually say no. That is why phones like the Nexus 5 and Nexus 5X were almost impossible to use on Verizon despite the fact that the hardware was fully compatible with Verizon's network.
I guess Verizon must have changed the way it does things. From what you say simply entering a Verizon SIM card into a compatible unlocked phone will work without Verizon interaction and will register both the CDMA and LTE portions on Verizon's network
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All of that is great and true...but if you don't know for sure please don't spread misinformation. Have good night sir

twiz0r said:
All of that is great and true...but if you don't know for sure please don't spread misinformation. Have good night sir
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you tried using a phone other than the Pixel 2 XL that was not bought from Verizon on Verizon's network? What I said was true as recently as early November 2017. My friend has Verizon. His old phone died and he needed a phone to get him through a few weeks until he could get a new one. I tried to let him borrow my old Nexus 5X. From a hardware standpoint the Nexus 5X is fully compatible with Verizon. He put in his Verizon SIM card in and..... nothing. He called Verizon to see what the issue was. They said they won't activate it because the phone wasn't purchased from them. He went into a Verizon store in person and was told the same thing. Again, that was less than 3 months ago.
I did notice in my original post I did say in the "last year or so". That should have said "the last month or so". Sorry for the confusion that might have caused.

jimv1983 said:
Have you tried using a phone other than the Pixel 2 XL that was not bought from Verizon on Verizon's network? What I said was true as recently as early November 2017. My friend has Verizon. His old phone died and he needed a phone to get him through a few weeks until he could get a new one. I tried to let him borrow my old Nexus 5X. From a hardware standpoint the Nexus 5X is fully compatible with Verizon. He put in his Verizon SIM card in and..... nothing. He called Verizon to see what the issue was. They said they won't activate it because the phone wasn't purchased from them. He went into a Verizon store in person and was told the same thing. Again, that was less than 3 months ago.
I did notice in my original post I did say in the "last year or so". That should have said "the last month or so". Sorry for the confusion that might have caused.
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I have bought several non verizon phones over the last several years and the only phone I had an issue with trying to get to work was a verizon pre-paid which they would not let me use on their service since it had never been activated before so they just want to get as much money as possible. I had the old unlimited plan and bought smartphones used on att and had no problem getting them activated several times.

Oh yes! Buy a Verizon phone, They all come with red handcuffs so that you can't alter the device in any way.
With a Verison phone you never really own the phone but you do have the privilege of paying for it.
Big red knows best.

CptnSpaulding71 said:
I have bought several non verizon phones over the last several years and the only phone I had an issue with trying to get to work was a verizon pre-paid which they would not let me use on their service since it had never been activated before so they just want to get as much money as possible. I had the old unlimited plan and bought smartphones used on att and had no problem getting them activated several times.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interesting. Maybe it was a model of phone that Verizon did sell even if that actual phone wasn't bought from them and that was enough? Or maybe you were just lucky? I just know what I/my friend have experienced and I have heard of it happening to other people over the years. Although those other cases weren't very recent and I don't know what phones they were.
Honestly, the fact that it has to be "activated" by Verizon is bull****. When I got my Nexus 5, Nexus 5X and Pixel 2 XL there was no need for for the phones to be activated by AT&T. When I switched phones AT&T didn't even know about it.

twiz0r said:
Really dude? The VZW XL 2 is locked - hence why there is a bounty thread......
Really dude? It's very easy to use a Google XL on VZW...put sim card in and that's it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just bought a Google version Pixel 2 XL from swappa. I went to a VZW authorized retailer, bought a Sim for $10 - profit. I didn't even get slapped with the one time $3O activation fee!
When I bought my wife's Iphoe 8 plus VZW hammered me with that $30 fee, hence now I always go to side chain VZW retailers not bug red HQ in my area.

Connecting an Unlocked Pixel XL2 on Verizon - No Verizon Software Wanted
I currently have an Unlocked Nexus 6P running on Verizon which was set up by a Verizon store support member in Jan 2016 when they weren't selling the phone. Seems to work fine, except the phone connectivity is a bit poor in less populated areas (Assuming that not all bands are supported).
Recently (Dec 2017) bought an Unlocked Pixel XL2 and intend to connect to Verizon. Reason I bought an Unlocked phone from Google is my desire to not have any Verizon software / bloatware installed when I put my SIM in and connect to the network; Not intending to root, just to avoid.
Anyone have any thoughts / input on how I can insure no Verizon garbage on the new phone during activation? Phone cost more just to avoid and I need to be sure I don't mess the activation up.
Thank you.

Twinsxchange said:
I currently have an Unlocked Nexus 6P running on Verizon which was set up by a Verizon store support member in Jan 2016 when they weren't selling the phone. Seems to work fine, except the phone connectivity is a bit poor in less populated areas (Assuming that not all bands are supported).
Recently (Dec 2017) bought an Unlocked Pixel XL2 and intend to connect to Verizon. Reason I bought an Unlocked phone from Google is my desire to not have any Verizon software / bloatware installed when I put my SIM in and connect to the network; Not intending to root, just to avoid.
Anyone have any thoughts / input on how I can insure no Verizon garbage on the new phone during activation? Phone cost more just to avoid and I need to be sure I don't mess the activation up.
Thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow. I'm amazed that Verizon allowed a Nexus 6P on its network since it never sold that phone. I tried to let my friend (who is a Verizon customer) use my Nexus 5X while he was waiting to get a new phone. Two different Verizon employees refused to register the phone on the Verizon network.

Twinsxchange said:
I currently have an Unlocked Nexus 6P running on Verizon which was set up by a Verizon store support member in Jan 2016 when they weren't selling the phone. Seems to work fine, except the phone connectivity is a bit poor in less populated areas (Assuming that not all bands are supported).
Recently (Dec 2017) bought an Unlocked Pixel XL2 and intend to connect to Verizon. Reason I bought an Unlocked phone from Google is my desire to not have any Verizon software / bloatware installed when I put my SIM in and connect to the network; Not intending to root, just to avoid.
Anyone have any thoughts / input on how I can insure no Verizon garbage on the new phone during activation? Phone cost more just to avoid and I need to be sure I don't mess the activation up.
Thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is just my personal experience, and not necessarily a guide. I've been on Big Red for 10+ years. When I went from a Verizon S5 to the Nexus 6p, I simply cut my micro sim card to make it a nano sim card. I booted up the 6p without the sim, and went through the Google setup process. Then I shut the phone off, installed the sim card, booted up and bang. Have full Verizon service, HD calling and Volte, and no Verizon bloat. Then, this past November when I got the P2XL, I did the same thing, with the same results. My point is, I have yet to speak with a Verizon rep, or go through an activation process. All my services work just fine, and still have no Verizon bloat. My P2XL is rooted, and when I dirty flash the monthly factory images, everything is still fine with no Verizon bloat. Hope this helps ?

I've not run a Verizon branded on big red since November of 2015, with a Moto X Pure Edition, followed by a Nexus 6P, followed by a Moto Z2 Play (not the Verizon version), followed by an OG Pixel XL(not the Verizon version), followed by an LG G6 (not the Verizon version), followed by a Pixel 2 XL (not the Verizon version).
When I got the MXPE, I had a Samsung Galaxy S4. It had a micro SIM. I bought a sim cutter and copied it down to a nano. Popped it into the MXPE and didn't look back. Eventually I got a real nano sim, but no issues.
If you wish to use a phone on Verizon, that is not on their list of authorized phones, the sim simply has to be "activated" on a Verizon phone and then you can put it in any phone. As long as the phone has the proper CDMA band support, you'll be good to go with no service issues.

jimv1983 said:
Wow. I'm amazed that Verizon allowed a Nexus 6P on its network since it never sold that phone. I tried to let my friend (who is a Verizon customer) use my Nexus 5X while he was waiting to get a new phone. Two different Verizon employees refused to register the phone on the Verizon network.
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Click to collapse
It's not amazing. Verizon has allowed compatible phones to work on their network for years. I had a nexus 6p, google version pixel xl, and google version pixel 2 xl on verizon.

nomisunrider said:
It's not amazing. Verizon has allowed compatible phones to work on their network for years. I had a nexus 6p, google version pixel xl, and google version pixel 2 xl on verizon.
Click to expand...
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The Google version of the Pixel's make more sense because Verizon does (or did sell those phones). The Nexus 6P and other phones that are compatible but not sold by Verizon are a different story. You must have gotten lucky being able to get a Nexus 6P working on Verizon. They wouldn't allow the Nexus 5X on Verizon and it's just as compatible with Verizon as the Nexus 6P.

jimv1983 said:
The Google version of the Pixel's make more sense because Verizon does (or did sell those phones). The Nexus 6P and other phones that are compatible but not sold by Verizon are a different story. You must have gotten lucky being able to get a Nexus 6P working on Verizon. They wouldn't allow the Nexus 5X on Verizon and it's just as compatible with Verizon as the Nexus 6P.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I stuck an active SIM in a Nexus 5x and used it for almost a year on Verizon with full functionality. Then I took the same card and used it in a 6p. Hate your luck but I've been swapping SIM cards on Verizon for years using branded and unlocked phones and never had any trouble.

Related

Verizon carrier lock

So if I paid cash for the Verizon version I should be able to call them and have them lift the carrier lock. If I do that will the radio work on T-Mobile? I have an opportunity for such a good deal on the Verizon version its going to cost almost nothing. Also if this all works would WiFi calling work on T-Mobile?
What kind of deal do you have? Sounds like you might be getting on a contract thinking it gives you a cheap cast phone
KnownDominance said:
What kind of deal do you have? Sounds like you might be getting on a contract thinking it gives you a cheap cast phone
Click to expand...
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My employer has offered to pay the purchase price but they insist I be on Verizon. I'm on a great plan with T-Mobile and I don't want to change. I might since this is the XL phone so I can't lose one way or the other.
Reddog58 said:
My employer has offered to pay the purchase price but they insist I be on Verizon. I'm on a great plan with T-Mobile and I don't want to change. I might since this is the XL phone so I can't lose one way or the other.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Explain to them that you can buy it through the Google Store and still use it on Verizon. Otherwise I would contact VZW and see if they will be carrier locked or not if you purchase through VZW.
I read somewhere that the VZW version won't be carrier locked. I think popping in your T-Mobile SIM card before you ever start it up will allow you to use it on VZW
hollowlog said:
I read somewhere that the VZW version won't be carrier locked. I think popping in your T-Mobile SIM card before you ever start it up will allow you to use it on VZW
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So the thinking is the one SKU will have the radio support for any US carrier? And a locked bootloader doesn't matter since I am not planning on rooting it, at least not in the short term. As a cash sale I should be able to walk out with the phone and pop in my T-Mobil SIM and be online. I understand none of this is certain until I have the phone in hand.
Reddog58 said:
So the thinking is the one SKU will have the radio support for any US carrier? And a locked bootloader doesn't matter since I am not planning on rooting it, at least not in the short term. As a cash sale I should be able to walk out with the phone and pop in my T-Mobil SIM and be online. I understand none of this is certain until I have the phone in hand.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All VZW phones are carrier unlocked. They include all gsm radios and have no issue with popping T-Mobile sims in and running. VZW has never had carrier locked devices.
If you purchase the Pixel thru VZW, it will be carrier unlocked. The bootloader is locked, and cannot be unlocked. This has been confirmed by Google and VZW.
Better to purchase thru the Google Play Store, as it will (hopefully) at least have an unlockable bootloader (if you require that).
uicnren said:
If you purchase the Pixel thru VZW, it will be carrier locked. Already been confirmed by Google and VZW.
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Where did you see this? I have read confirmation that the bootloader will be locked. I haven't read anything saying it will be carrier locked.
uicnren said:
If you purchase the Pixel thru VZW, it will be carrier locked. Already been confirmed by Google and VZW.
Buy the same phone from Google Play store, it is not carrier locked, and it has been confirmed that Wi-Fi calling and HD Voice will work with the GPS version on VZW, both by Google and VZW.
Click to expand...
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Not true. In fact, the opposite has been confirmed. It's 100% SIM unlocked like every other Verizon LTE device has been. No Verizon phone with LTE has been SIM locked per their agreement with the FCC when purchasing a large block of LTE spectrum. The issue with getting some other Verizon LTE devices fully working on a different carrier has been band support. That doesn't appear to be an issue here.
@hollowlog @bsweetness my apologies, you are both correct (I will edit my post). I swear I read somewhere (of course I cant find it now) that they were carrier locked as well as bootloader locked (and unlockable).
Apparently reading some more, they ARE carrier unlocked, with a locked (and unlockable) bootloader.
bsweetness said:
Not true. In fact, the opposite has been confirmed. It's 100% SIM unlocked like every other Verizon LTE device has been. No Verizon phone with LTE has been SIM locked per their agreement with the FCC when purchasing a large block of LTE spectrum. The issue with getting some other Verizon LTE devices fully working on a different carrier has been band support. That doesn't appear to be an issue here.
Click to expand...
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This seems to be one of the most confusing aspects of the relationship between Google and Verizon. What exactly is the point of buying from Verizon? As you read the posts you see more and more reasons which are mostly due to an employer subsidized price which is also my reason. I wouldn't even think of buying from Verizon if not for the discount I will get. But in my case the discount is almost 100% of the purchase price. But what they don't subsidize is the monthly plan. So I can't pass on the phone but I want it to work on my T-Mobile sim. Verizon is not even close to the pricing on the data plan I get from T-Mobile. But maybe that day isn't as far off as it has been in the past.
So apparently Verizon Pixel/XL will receive updates at the same time as the unlocked versions do.
Shame the Verizon versions have a locked bootloader.
Sent from my SM-G930T using Tapatalk
DirgeExtinction said:
So apparently Verizon Pixel/XL will receive updates at the same time as the unlocked versions do.
Shame the Verizon versions have a locked bootloader.
Sent from my SM-G930T using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't expect that to remain. The bootloaders on the Nexus 6 which I owned and the 6p/5x all came locked and were right away unlocked. Odds are it will get unlocked. Better odds than any other phone actually.
Sent from my SM-N930V using Tapatalk
Greetings all.
Not to completely hijack this thread. But I was absolutely beside myself when I saw the mention of all verizon LTE devices being carrier unlocked. I guess I had never tried it and just assumed that phones on VZW's edge payment plan, Or under contract were carrier locked like many other carriers do.
So, I set out to test it. Me and a buddy both have Note7's on VZW. Both are not even a single payment in. And we have already pre-ordered pixel XL's due to the now 2nd recall of the note 7.
Anyways, I have a T-Mobile sim from a work issued phone. Popped it in my buddies Note7 and no kidding. It worked without issue. Had to program the Tmobile APN. But it sure is unlocked.
Screenshot of LTE discovery.
http://i.imgur.com/Ua0lapj.jpg
It would however appear that the VZW Note 7 variant does not support Band 12 (Or it's disabled) as popping the same SIM in my older Nexus 6p lands the phone directly on band 12. Band 4 if I take it outside where the RSQ improves. Covering the Note 7 with my hands to attenuate the signal causes the phone to fall off LTE (Not until a damn low -128. Which is crazy) and it'll land on GSM/HSPA+.
So, Seeing my note7 work with a T-Mobile simcard squarely lands me on believing the Pixel XL will be carrier unlocked. If Verizon isn't allowed to sell a carrier locked phone due to it's FCC dealings, The Pixel is no different. I figure the way it works out is fantastic for the end user. Verizon CANT lock the phone to them. And Google I assume doesn't want that done anyways. So there's no push from either side to lock the device.
Now that bootloader. Time will tell. And I'm anxious to see the outcome.
Verizon Employee here, NO 4G LTE devices are Carrier Locked. We do not yet know on dev or employee side if bootloader lock. Verizon will not be involved in updates of software so when Google releases they get it similar to Apple at least that's what the news released today on Android Central says.
My Nexus 6 from Verizon was completely unlocked. However my S6 Edge+ was locked including the other bands necessary for T-Mobile was locked. However after the S6 Edge+ update to 6.0 it was carrier unlocked for the radio bands.
Considering my Nexus 6 was unlocked I expect the Pixel to be unlocked. However they have stated the bootloader would be locked. I would not buy one from Verizon.
Reddog58 said:
So if I paid cash for the Verizon version I should be able to call them and have them lift the carrier lock. If I do that will the radio work on T-Mobile? I have an opportunity for such a good deal on the Verizon version its going to cost almost nothing. Also if this all works would WiFi calling work on T-Mobile?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Verizon phones are unlocked. It'll be fine without needing to call them.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
johnciaccio said:
My Nexus 6 from Verizon was completely unlocked. However my S6 Edge+ was locked including the other bands necessary for T-Mobile was locked. However after the S6 Edge+ update to 6.0 it was carrier unlocked for the radio bands.
Considering my Nexus 6 was unlocked I expect the Pixel to be unlocked. However they have stated the bootloader would be locked. I would not buy one from Verizon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The VZW Nexus 6 came locked. Once you had it you could go in and unlock it. It's been this way with every Nexus on VZW. So far that's the trend.
Sent from my SM-N930V using Tapatalk
Seems to be a bit of confusion about locked and unlocked. All Verizon LTE phones are 100% sim (carrier) unlocked per their deal with the FCC as stated above. They may not have all bands enabled in the radios to work perfectly with all carriers. All Nexus and Pixel phones are bootloader locked form Google or anywhere else you get them. All of them but the Pixel phones sold by Verizon can be bootloader unlocked after you buy them via ADB commands. The bootloader on the Verizon sold Pixel phones will be encrypted so initially they will not be unlockable. Only time will tell if a developer can find a way to unlock the Verizon bootloader.

Do I have a Verizon Pixel XL?

...seems like a dumb question, right? Here's the deal, I broke my (Google) 64GB Nexus 6 last Saturday night... sucks, but I have insurance! So I file a claim, pay $150, and Asurion sends me a Verizon (my carrier) 32GB Nexus 6... I called them up and they told me that's all they had. After talking to a couple of people and me saying I would cancel the insurance if they couldn't give me the same device I insured, they mentioned they could give me a Pixel XL 32GB!!! Having missed the original preorders I've been trying like hell to preorder a Pixel XL with no luck, so this was a no brainer (although it sucks that it's only 32GB).
Fast forward a day, and I have my phone!!! But there are a couple of things off about it. For one, it doesn't say Verizon anywhere on the box, phone, within Android, boot up... nothing! There are also zero preloaded Verizon apps?! I thought they would at least put "MyVerizon" on it... So is there anywhere I can look to determine which version I have? Another thing, I've had a hell of a time getting it activated on Verizon. I had switched back to my old S4 after breaking my Nexus 6, and had to go to Verizon to get a micro-sim card. Nobody at Verizon has been able to register the phone with the new SIM card, after hours on hold I gave up and just cut my S4 micro-sim card - problem solved... but why couldn't Verizon activate the phone? That might be unrelated, just something I was thinking about.
One last note, I already ran depixel8 (which succeeded) on the phone. I'm not sure what would happen if this was done on a non-verizon version... but I can't test this by unlocking the bootloader since that's already done!
TLDR: Got Pixel XL from Asurion to replace my broken Nexus 6 I had previously used on Verizon, and I can't find any mention of Verizon anywhere! Did they send me a Google version of Verizon version?
Verizon versions aren't branded.
It was all just an illusion
trickster2369 said:
Verizon versions aren't branded.
It was all just an illusion
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cool, so how do I know?
bought mine at a verizon store and it came the same way so your good lol
If you have a Verizon phone your build# will be NDE63P
N3V3RS3TTL3 said:
If you have a Verizon phone your build# will be NDE63P
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Then whats the Google phone on? L? jcase already commented on this and said that P is the current version regardless if it is from Verizon or Google.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/pix...xel-xl-unlocking-discussions-t3484497/page109
N3V3RS3TTL3 said:
If you have a Verizon phone your build# will be NDE63P
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think this necessarily means that it is a Verizon model since I have a Google Store purchased Pixel XL with the same build number.
My best guess to see if the phone is a Verizon model is if the bootloader is not unlockable.
Is the toggle in settings to allow bootloader unlocking grey or can you toggle it?
Sent from my Pixel XL
imnuts said:
Is the toggle in settings to allow bootloader unlocking grey or can you toggle it?
Sent from my Pixel XL
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I cannot toggle it (and couldn't before unlocking it either). Is this really the only sign that the phone is a Verizon? Other than the boatloader (which was easily fixed) I guess Verizon deserves props for not screwing with the device! Or Google deserves props for not letting Verizon screw with it, lol.
DracoDan said:
I cannot toggle it (and couldn't before unlocking it either). Is this really the only sign that the phone is a Verizon? Other than the boatloader (which was easily fixed) I guess Verizon deserves props for not screwing with the device! Or Google deserves props for not letting Verizon screw with it, lol.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Another thing you can do is look in "My Verizon" and see if it shows up as "Other Device" or Pixel XL. Other device would indicate a play store device which I highly doubt that they sent you.
Another thing you could do is install an app on the play store. When the drop down shows up it will say Verizon Google Pixel XL.
When I sign in to my Verizon account on my laptop, it lists my Google Pixel as: PIXEL NON-VZW.
DracoDan said:
...seems like a dumb question, right? Here's the deal, I broke my (Google) 64GB Nexus 6 last Saturday night... sucks, but I have insurance! So I file a claim, pay $150, and Asurion sends me a Verizon (my carrier) 32GB Nexus 6... I called them up and they told me that's all they had. After talking to a couple of people and me saying I would cancel the insurance if they couldn't give me the same device I insured, they mentioned they could give me a Pixel XL 32GB!!! Having missed the original preorders I've been trying like hell to preorder a Pixel XL with no luck, so this was a no brainer (although it sucks that it's only 32GB).
Fast forward a day, and I have my phone!!! But there are a couple of things off about it. For one, it doesn't say Verizon anywhere on the box, phone, within Android, boot up... nothing! There are also zero preloaded Verizon apps?! I thought they would at least put "MyVerizon" on it... So is there anywhere I can look to determine which version I have? Another thing, I've had a hell of a time getting it activated on Verizon. I had switched back to my old S4 after breaking my Nexus 6, and had to go to Verizon to get a micro-sim card. Nobody at Verizon has been able to register the phone with the new SIM card, after hours on hold I gave up and just cut my S4 micro-sim card - problem solved... but why couldn't Verizon activate the phone? That might be unrelated, just something I was thinking about.
One last note, I already ran depixel8 (which succeeded) on the phone. I'm not sure what would happen if this was done on a non-verizon version... but I can't test this by unlocking the bootloader since that's already done!
TLDR: Got Pixel XL from Asurion to replace my broken Nexus 6 I had previously used on Verizon, and I can't find any mention of Verizon anywhere! Did they send me a Google version of Verizon version?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Reboot the phone to bootloader. Issue command "fastboot OEM getcid" that will tell for sure what do you have.
jamexman said:
Reboot the phone to bootloader. Issue command "fastboot OEM getcid" that will tell for sure what do you have.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yay, a definitive answer, thanks!!!
The back story here is interesting...
There are so many refurbs this soon in the game that Google is already letting Asurion have them... AND, they can use them to replace other brands of phones.
The flickering screens and maybe BT issues seem to be racking up some casualties. Meanwhile many of us have been waiting near a month for XL 128's
So much blood at the bleeding edge.
Hmm I have a Verizon version but yet the unlock isn't greyed out and I'm able to enable it....
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk
DracoDan said:
Yay, a definitive answer, thanks!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're welcome. What did the command tell you?
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk
---------- Post added at 04:40 PM ---------- Previous post was at 04:37 PM ----------
evobyte said:
Hmm I have a Verizon version but yet the unlock isn't greyed out and I'm able to enable it....
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
More than likely... You got a free for review phone no? Been discussed before...
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

Verizon says they can't activate a Google pixel xl

Bought a Google pixel xl off swappa. Says he never had the phone activated. I think I read that if a pixel is on fi it won't work on another network. Took the pixel xl to Verizon to get a new sim. They asked for the ime number. His tablet said Verizon can't activate the device or acknowledge the device because it's not a Verizon device or something. I did do a network reset in settings. Any ideas?
My Pixel XL and wife's Pixel are both Google purchased phones running on Verizon. All I did was take the sim chip out of my Google purchased Nexus 6 and put it in my Pixel XL. My wife's old phone had the wrong size sim chip so we took it into a Verizon store to get activated.
Paul1201 said:
My Pixel XL and wife's Pixel are both Google purchased phones running on Verizon. All I did was take the sim chip out of my Google purchased Nexus 6 and put it in my Pixel XL. My wife's old phone had the wrong size sim chip so we took it into a Verizon store to get activated.
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Did they ask for the ime number?
93fuelslut said:
Bought a Google pixel xl off swappa. Says he never had the phone activated. I think I read that if a pixel is on fi it won't work on another network. Took the pixel xl to Verizon to get a new sim. They asked for the ime number. His tablet said Verizon can't activate the device or acknowledge the device because it's not a Verizon device or something. I did do a network reset in settings. Any ideas?
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Click to collapse
Project Fi devices can be used on other networks as long as they have been paid for in full and the device is no longer linked to a Project Fi account. I don't know the specifics of Verizon though. If you buy a Pixel from Verizon the bootloader is locked. If you buy a Pixel anywhere else the bootloader can be unlocked. If the Verizon rep told you they wouldn't active a non Verizon device it's possible that Verizon changed their bring your own phone policy (which is something some carriers like Virgin Mobile do not allow you to do) or that they changed their policy specifically for Pixels because they don't want the unlockable versions on their network. It's also possible you got a bad customer service rep who was misinformed and that you need to call back and speak to someone else.
There are also a couple of other possibilities. You might have purchased a stolen phone that is blacklisted or that your seller is on the up and up but needs to contact Project Fi to deregister the device with them before you can register it someplace else. I've had this happen with other carriers when I sold used phones I no longer wanted to keep.
I'm thinking about selling my Pixel XL because I'm not thrilled with it and contacted Pixel support yesterday to get some info. They said there was no restriction on my selling the device (which isn't even 6 weeks old) and that the warranty from the Google Store and the extended warranty I purchased could both be transferred to the new owner.
The thing you read about Project Fi devices not being usable on other networks was a temporary glitch where they were black listing former devices in error. It isn't Project Fi policy to prevent members from taking their phones to another carrier or selling them as long as the phone has been paid for. If you purchased a Pixel through the Fi Store rather than Google you can't change carriers with that phone until its been completely paid for.
jhs39 said:
Project Fi devices can be used on other networks as long as they have been paid for in full and the device is no longer linked to a Project Fi account. I don't know the specifics of Verizon though. If you buy a Pixel from Verizon the bootloader is locked. If you buy a Pixel anywhere else the bootloader can be unlocked. If the Verizon rep told you they wouldn't active a non Verizon device it's possible that Verizon changed their bring your own phone policy (which is something some carriers like Virgin Mobile do not allow you to do) or that they changed their policy specifically for Pixels because they don't want the unlockable versions on their network. It's also possible you got a bad customer service rep who was misinformed and that you need to call back and speak to someone else.
There are also a couple of other possibilities. You might have purchased a stolen phone that is blacklisted or that your seller is on the up and up but needs to contact Project Fi to deregister the device with them before you can register it someplace else. I've had this happen with other carriers when I sold used phones I no longer wanted to keep.
I'm thinking about selling my Pixel XL because I'm not thrilled with it and contacted Pixel support yesterday to get some info. They said there was no restriction on my selling the device (which isn't even 6 weeks old) and that the warranty from the Google Store and the extended warranty I purchased could both be transferred to the new owner.
The thing you read about Project Fi devices not being usable on other networks was a temporary glitch where they were black listing former devices in error. It isn't Project Fi policy to prevent members from taking their phones to another carrier or selling them as long as the phone has been paid for. If you purchased a Pixel through the Fi Store rather than Google you can't change carriers with that phone until its been completely paid for.
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Thanks for the clarification. I'll call Verizon tech service and go from there.
93fuelslut said:
Thanks for the clarification. I'll call Verizon tech service and go from there.
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Good luck.
I actually bought my pixel XL from Google, and got on a plan with Verizon. Originally they said they couldn't do it. They asked for my imei and kept telling me it wouldn't allow the phone to be activated or that it was invalid.
I knew a bit more than the Verizon rep, so i asked if he can just use his phone and Imei to activate the SIM card, and then I'd take the activated sim card and slide it into the pixel.
I had to help a friend do this also, Verizon is picky when it comes to phones not purchased from them. And they are real quick to say "since it's not a Verizon pixel it won't work", at least that's what I got multiple times
noidea24 said:
I actually bought my pixel XL from Google, and got on a plan with Verizon. Originally they said they couldn't do it. They asked for my imei and kept telling me it wouldn't allow the phone to be activated or that it was invalid.
I knew a bit more than the Verizon rep, so i asked if he can just use his phone and Imei to activate the SIM card, and then I'd take the activated sim card and slide it into the pixel.
I had to help a friend do this also, Verizon is picky when it comes to phones not purchased from them. And they are real quick to say "since it's not a Verizon pixel it won't work", at least that's what I got multiple times
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I knew that was it! He kinda acted shady abt activating it. Once he entered the IMEI number do you think the phone is now flagged by Verizon on their system?
Do they have to have the IMEI number anyways?
93fuelslut said:
I knew that was it! He kinda acted shady abt activating it. Once he entered the IMEI number do you think the phone is now flagged by Verizon on their system?
Do they have to have the IMEI number anyways?
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It isn't​ flagged. You got a VZ rep that didn't know what they were doing. Very common. Go to a corporate store, better chance of finding someone that has a clue.
TonikJDK said:
It isn't​ flagged. You got a VZ rep that didn't know what they were doing. Very common. Go to a corporate store, better chance of finding someone that has a clue.
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Thanks. I did go to a corporate store. Dug up a page on Reddit and alot of people are having the same experience with Verizon. I'm gonna try to re activate my Verizon n6 at Verizon, activate it, and pop that Sim in my pixel XL
93fuelslut said:
Thanks. I did go to a corporate store. Dug up a page on Reddit and alot of people are having the same experience with Verizon. I'm gonna try to re activate my Verizon n6 at Verizon, activate it, and pop that Sim in my pixel XL
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That will work perfectly for you.
I got my Pixel yesterday, from VZW, it was the last one they had. I dropped it this morning, which cracked the screen, and was thinking of getting one from Gooble. So I can unlock the bootloader, I prefer my own Android builds, even though there's really not a lot of bloatware on this device and it is running Andy 8.0 DP3.
I'm on the fence, I cannot get by without a phone, friends are recommending many different devices (so I will develop some ROMs, of course), but I really want a Pixel and Verizon is my only option for a carrier...
@93fuelslut, let us know if you get yours going :good:
NepoRood said:
I got my Pixel yesterday, from VZW, it was the last one they had. I dropped it this morning, which cracked the screen, and was thinking of getting one from Gooble. So I can unlock the bootloader, I prefer my own Android builds, even though there's really not a lot of bloatware on this device and it is running Andy 8.0 DP3.
I'm on the fence, I cannot get by without a phone, friends are recommending many different devices (so I will develop some ROMs, of course), but I really want a Pixel and Verizon is my only option for a carrier...
@93fuelslut, let us know if you get yours going :good:
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Click to collapse
I will. Gotta do the father's day stuff in a few and then I'll stop by to activate my Verizon n6. I think it's a easy activation, it's just the Reps and their sales tactics. I have read that the Verizon Pixel can't be unlocked now with the new update. Just a heads up
NepoRood said:
I got my Pixel yesterday, from VZW, it was the last one they had. I dropped it this morning, which cracked the screen, and was thinking of getting one from Gooble. So I can unlock the bootloader, I prefer my own Android builds, even though there's really not a lot of bloatware on this device and it is running Andy 8.0 DP3.
I'm on the fence, I cannot get by without a phone, friends are recommending many different devices (so I will develop some ROMs, of course), but I really want a Pixel and Verizon is my only option for a carrier...
@93fuelslut, let us know if you get yours going :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your broke Pixel was on VZ? You are done, just put that sim in the new one. That is how I did my Google Pixel XL. Took the Sim out of my Nexus 6 and put it in my Pixel. Never even talked to VZ.
TonikJDK said:
Your broke Pixel was on VZ? You are done, just put that sim in the new one. That is how I did my Google Pixel XL. Took the Sim out of my Nexus 6 and put it in my Pixel. Never even talked to VZ.
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That's what I was thinking, even though, I have to go back to Verizon to return the broken one
I'm currently negotiating with an Amazon seller...
TonikJDK said:
Your broke Pixel was on VZ? You are done, just put that sim in the new one. That is how I did my Google Pixel XL. Took the Sim out of my Nexus 6 and put it in my Pixel. Never even talked to VZ.
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I'm glad you stated that
NepoRood said:
That's what I was thinking, even though, I have to go back to Verizon to return the broken one
I'm currently negotiating with an Amazon seller...
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Be careful. I bought my first Nexus 6P from an Amazon seller and she was a scammer --although her feedback looked good when I made the purchase. She provided a tracking number and the day it was supposed to arrive I anxiously waited. Then I got a text that the package was delivered but I had no package. Initially I thought UPS had misdelivered the package but then I noticed that according to the tracking number it had been delivered to a completely different state. I checked her feedback again and found she had done the exact same thing to a bunch of other buyers. When she wouldn't return any messages and her feedback kept going down it was apparent she was a scammer. I reported her to Amazon and it took them two weeks to suspend her account --during which time she sold at least 30 more phones. It also took forever to get a refund from Amazon since it involved a fraud investigation. I'm much more careful with third party sellers on Amazon, particularly for anything expensive although third party sellers offering cheap Chinese knock off products are also very common on Amazon. Like I said, be careful. People have reported buying new computers from third party sellers on Amazon that had bootleg versions of Windows installed with a key generator program that was still installed on the computer.
jhs39 said:
Be careful. I bought my first Nexus 6P from an Amazon seller and she was a scammer --although her feedback looked good when I made the purchase. She provided a tracking number and the day it was supposed to arrive I anxiously waited. Then I got a text that the package was delivered but I had no package. Initially I thought UPS had misdelivered the package but then I noticed that according to the tracking number it had been delivered to a completely different state. I checked her feedback again and found she had done the exact same thing to a bunch of other buyers. When she wouldn't return any messages and her feedback kept going down it was apparent she was a scammer. I reported her to Amazon and it took them two weeks to suspend her account --during which time she sold at least 30 more phones. It also took forever to get a refund from Amazon since it involved a fraud investigation. I'm much more careful with third party sellers on Amazon, particularly for anything expensive although third party sellers offering cheap Chinese knock off products are also very common on Amazon. Like I said, be careful. People have reported buying new computers from third party sellers on Amazon that had bootleg versions of Windows installed with a key generator program that was still installed on the computer.
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How do you know if it's a 3rd party?
Activating my Nexus 6 at Verizon then using that same sim to power my pixel XL worked like a charm.
93fuelslut said:
Activating my Nexus 6 at Verizon then using that same sim to power my pixel XL worked like a charm.
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Awesome, congrats.

Activating an unlocked 2 xl on verizon; will sim be transferable to another phone?

Dumb question probably, but I have never used Verizon. And will I be able to change to an ATT sim whenever I want to?
Also will tying up the IMEI with Verizon effect the return of the ph within my 15 days?
lightfire said:
Dumb question probably, but I have never used Verizon. And will I be able to change to an ATT sim whenever I want to?
Also will tying up the IMEI with Verizon effect the return of the ph within my 15 days?
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Click to collapse
You can activate it with a Verizon sim and be able to change networks without any problems. I haven't tried it with this phone but with my Nexus 6P I was able to swap sims from Verizon to other carriers and back again without issues. The Pixel 2 XL is unlocked also so I don't see why it would be any different. As long as you bought it from the Google store or through Project Fi you will be able to return it within your 15 days. They have a record of your IMEI number and it will not change.
murphyjasonc said:
You can activate it with a Verizon sim and be able to change networks without any problems. I haven't tried it with this phone but with my Nexus 6P I was able to swap sims from Verizon to other carriers and back again without issues. The Pixel 2 XL is unlocked also so I don't see why it would be any different. As long as you bought it from the Google store or through Project Fi you will be able to return it within your 15 days. They have a record of your IMEI number and it will not change.
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Thanks for the reply. Where I live is a hole for ATT and I thought I would try Verizon, although I prefer the less expensive GSM MVNO's.
Be warned that if you select the "Unlocked" version from the Google store you may not be able to use it on the Verizon network unless you go directly to Verizon. My MVNO (StraightTalk) says my IMEI is not authorized and I ended up having to switch to their ATT SIM.
gmt2001 said:
Be warned that if you select the "Unlocked" version from the Google store you may not be able to use it on the Verizon network unless you go directly to Verizon. My MVNO (StraightTalk) says my IMEI is not authorized and I ended up having to switch to their ATT SIM.
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I owned a unlocked pixel xl bought from the Google store. All I did was switch the into it last fall and it worked fine. Then I did the same exact thing with my pixel 2 xl with no issues when it arrived last week.
gmt2001 said:
Be warned that if you select the "Unlocked" version from the Google store you may not be able to use it on the Verizon network unless you go directly to Verizon. My MVNO (StraightTalk) says my IMEI is not authorized and I ended up having to switch to their ATT SIM.
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Please delete your post. It creates confusion because it's just plain wrong.
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk
clapper66 said:
I owned a unlocked pixel xl bought from the Google store. All I did was switch the into it last fall and it worked fine. Then I did the same exact thing with my pixel 2 xl with no issues when it arrived last week.
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Guess your MVNO was nicer and went through the trouble of authorizing it for you. Wish mine would of done that for me.

Pixel from USA in Poland

Hello guys. I want to buy new Pixel 2 XL, and best offer I have found is brand new from USA. Price is much lower then in regular polish shops, so I want to ask, is there any possibility that the phone will not work right in Poland? Maybe some options will be locked? Or there will be problem with updates?
I have Samsung Galaxy Note 4 from USA now and I can't update it cause it's from AT&T (worst mistake i could do), and I don't want to be dissapointed again.
Also, second thing, is the screen really that bad as they write in reviews? How is it compared to Galaxy Note 4, worse? There are so many mixed reviews, some praise the screen, some say that it is crap. Are there different versions of this phone or what?
Thank you very much for help.
pixel updates are not regulated by carrier, however make sure the bands supported on the american pixel are same as the bands used in poland. as far as i know america uses different bands compared to europe and rest of the world.
some screens are worse than others, but there is now way of confirming as some people with newer batches have also had complaints with the screen. and if pixel is not officially available in your country, you wont be able to rma also and i'm not sure how the warranty would work there in poland.
I would think as long as it's an unlocked USA phone and not from Verizon it should be fine if your country's bands are listed.
As for the screen, the blue shift and black crushing is there but it's not that bad. My wife had the Note 4 and it was a good screen for the time of release but I would say it's worse than that.
waxjan said:
Hello guys. I want to buy new Pixel 2 XL, and best offer I have found is brand new from USA. Price is much lower then in regular polish shops, so I want to ask, is there any possibility that the phone will not work right in Poland? Maybe some options will be locked? Or there will be problem with updates?
I have Samsung Galaxy Note 4 from USA now and I can't update it cause it's from AT&T (worst mistake i could do), and I don't want to be dissapointed again.
Also, second thing, is the screen really that bad as they write in reviews? How is it compared to Galaxy Note 4, worse? There are so many mixed reviews, some praise the screen, some say that it is crap. Are there different versions of this phone or what?
Thank you very much for help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
Ok, seller says that it works in Poland. I just make sure that it is not from Verizon.
About screen, if it is better than Note 4, than it is just fine for me. I've made my decision, I will be Pixel 2 XL owner thank you very much for help.
Hey there! Neighbor here, I'm Lithuanian. 3 days ago I bought mine from USA as well. Works fine, just buy a USA to EU charger adapter beforehand
By the way, switched from Note 4. Screen is a bit more dull compared to Note 4 but I kinda dig it and you can always use Saturated mode, so that's not a problem.
Also, camera, I'm shooting everything everywhere, can't get enough of it.
waxjan said:
Ok, seller says that it works in Poland. I just make sure that it is not from Verizon.
About screen, if it is better than Note 4, than it is just fine for me. I've made my decision, I will be Pixel 2 XL owner thank you very much for help.
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Click to collapse
Why Verizon one is not recommended?
Pixel 2 XL| Tapatalk
If you want to unlock the bootloader one day, you can't with Verizon. If that doesn't matter, then go ahead. The Verizon phone will work with the same SIM cards the carrier free US one does.
mniedziel said:
Why Verizon one is not recommended?
Pixel 2 XL| Tapatalk
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Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
mniedziel said:
Why Verizon one is not recommended?
Pixel 2 XL| Tapatalk
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It's because phones sold by carriers are locked to only that carrier. If you were to get the one from Verizon and put in your SIM card you'd get something like "Invalid SIM". Phones can be unlocked but Verizon would have to give you the needed info.
---------- Post added at 02:10 AM ---------- Previous post was at 02:07 AM ----------
nikhil.agrawal said:
pixel updates are not regulated by carrier, however make sure the bands supported on the american pixel are same as the bands used in poland. as far as i know america uses different bands compared to europe and rest of the world.
some screens are worse than others, but there is now way of confirming as some people with newer batches have also had complaints with the screen. and if pixel is not officially available in your country, you wont be able to rma also and i'm not sure how the warranty would work there in poland.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is no "American" Pixel 2. It's the same phone sold everywhere. Either the phone supports the bands used in Poland or it doesn't. The original post did say the phone is sold in stores in Poland so I'm guessing the Pixel 2 supports bands used in Poland or stores wouldn't sell it.
jimv1983 said:
It's because phones sold by carriers are locked to only that carrier. If you were to get the one from Verizon and put in your SIM card you'd get something like "Invalid SIM". Phones can be unlocked but Verizon would have to give you the needed info.
---------- Post added at 02:10 AM ---------- Previous post was at 02:07 AM ----------
There is no "American" Pixel 2. It's the same phone sold everywhere. Either the phone supports the bands used in Poland or it doesn't. The original post did say the phone is sold in stores in Poland so I'm guessing the Pixel 2 supports bands used in Poland or stores wouldn't sell it.
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Yes, my bad. I totally missed how the new phones support all bands. The band thing I said earlier used to be a thing of past. A few years back American phones didn't used to work in India or other countries due to the bands supported in states were different.
jimv1983 said:
It's because phones sold by carriers are locked to only that carrier. If you were to get the one from Verizon and put in your SIM card you'd get something like "Invalid SIM". Phones can be unlocked but Verizon would have to give you the needed info.
---------- Post added at 02:10 AM ---------- Previous post was at 02:07 AM ----------
There is no "American" Pixel 2. It's the same phone sold everywhere. Either the phone supports the bands used in Poland or it doesn't. The original post did say the phone is sold in stores in Poland so I'm guessing the Pixel 2 supports bands used in Poland or stores wouldn't sell it.
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Verizon LTE phones are carrier unlocked from the get go.
fiffan86 said:
Verizon LTE phones are carrier unlocked from the get go.
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Click to collapse
If that's true it's a very recent change. A co-worker of mine is on T-Mobile. He bought a used Pixel XL last November. He tried to put in his T-Mobile SIM card and it didn't work. He discovered that it was originally bought from Verizon. He put in a family member's Verizon SIM card and it worked fine.
I've also never heard of ANY carrier selling a phone that is carrier unlocked.
jimv1983 said:
If that's true it's a very recent change. A co-worker of mine is on T-Mobile. He bought a used Pixel XL last November. He tried to put in his T-Mobile SIM card and it didn't work. He discovered that it was originally bought from Verizon. He put in a family member's Verizon SIM card and it worked fine.
I've also never heard of ANY carrier selling a phone that is carrier unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Verizon has had to sell LTE phones unlocked since their won the 700 mhz block c in 2008. They are actually about to lock the new ones down this year. I bought a pixel XL in Nov 2016 and switched to TMobile in June 2017 and didn't have a single issue. I know have a pixel 2 xl on TMobile with no issues. Interesting that he had issues with it.
https://www.droid-life.com/2017/10/09/which-google-pixel-2-verizon-or-unlocked/
Start reading at "Both versions work everywhere"
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
EeZeEpEe said:
https://www.droid-life.com/2017/10/09/which-google-pixel-2-verizon-or-unlocked/
Start reading at "Both versions work everywhere"
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's strange. I only have the experience of one single phone so I can't really make a general statement. All I can say is that for that one phone what is said in that Droid Life article isn't true. The phone worked with a Verizon SIM but not a T-Mobile SIM. If the phone was unlocked then maybe something else could cause that?
The reason not to get a Verizon P2XL is they lock the bootloader so it can't be rooted. As noted above they don't SIM lock devices, and haven't done so for years. Prepaid may be the exception to that, but I stay away from Verizon.
fiffan86 said:
Verizon has had to sell LTE phones unlocked since their won the 700 mhz block c in 2008. They are actually about to lock the new ones down this year. I bought a pixel XL in Nov 2016 and switched to TMobile in June 2017 and didn't have a single issue. I know have a pixel 2 xl on TMobile with no issues. Interesting that he had issues with it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When you say "They are actually about to lock the new ones down this year."
What do you mean? There is a policy change on SIM locking?
Edit: Found my own answer.
https://www.cnet.com/news/verizon-will-lock-its-smartphones-to-combat-theft/
Strephon Alkhalikoi said:
The reason not to get a Verizon P2XL is they lock the bootloader so it can't be rooted. As noted above they don't SIM lock devices, and haven't done so for years. Prepaid may be the exception to that, but I stay away from Verizon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think that is universally true. As I said in a previous comment the original Pixel XL, or at least one of them, was locked to Verizon. Did Verizon sell the Pixel XL as a prepaid phone? Maybe the Verizon Pixel XL my co-worker bought was originally sold as a prepaid device and that's why it was locked?
Maybe. I don't know and don't care to know as I don't do silly crap like buy Verizon or AT&T devices.
jimv1983 said:
I don't think that is universally true. As I said in a previous comment the original Pixel XL, or at least one of them, was locked to Verizon. Did Verizon sell the Pixel XL as a prepaid phone? Maybe the Verizon Pixel XL my co-worker bought was originally sold as a prepaid device and that's why it was locked?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google locks them all, theirs and VZs when they are first sold.. When they first start up they phone home and check a database on a server at Google to see if it has permission to unlock.
On the OG Pixel and OG XL there were quite a few errors in that system and VZ phones got permission to unlock. Still happens on the 2's but not as often.
That's it, a simple error in a database at Google.
TonikJDK said:
Google locks them all, theirs and VZs when they are first sold.. When they first start up they phone home and check a database on a server at Google to see if it has permission to unlock.
On the OG Pixel and OG XL there were quite a few errors in that system and VZ phones got permission to unlock. Still happens on the 2's but not as often.
That's it, a simple error in a database at Google.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And that would cause a used Pixel XL that was already used on Verizon to work for ONLY Verizon but not for any other carrier? So when it was first activated on Verizon it was only unlocked for Verizon?

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