leaving pixel environment - Google Pixel 2 XL Questions & Answers

I need a device that I can root n ROM. Verizon wireless customer here. Pixel too locked down for my taste . Any suggestions I know the Moto g5 plus was getting a lot of love.

aaronrw said:
I need a device that I can root n ROM. Verizon wireless customer here. Pixel too locked down for my taste . Any suggestions I know the Moto g5 plus was getting a lot of love.
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Everything not Verizon.....

buy a pixel 2 xl off google. buy a used pixel 2 xl and sell yours. #profit

Uh, the Pixel 2 man, you already have the current best Android phone, but you got the wrong version, need to only buy from Google, you bought the red Nazi version from the evil V.

aaronrw said:
I need a device that I can root n ROM. Verizon wireless customer here. Pixel too locked down for my taste . Any suggestions I know the Moto g5 plus was getting a lot of love.
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Verizon locked your phone, and locked you in at the same time. Like others have said you bought the wrong variant of the P2XL. Maybe you feel you were/are forced to buy the wrong variant because you cannot buy an unlocked phone to escape the clutches of the Red Devil, but you would be wrong. Buying a phone subsidized by Verizon (getting the phone up front and paying for it on-contract for 2-3 years) is no different than just financing it from a reputable source. Finance any unlocked phone you like. At that point you are free to stay with Verizon until your contract is up and then go to any other carrier you like. Hardware good. Verizon bad.

What device you guys think is getting the best development at this point?

What device you guys think is getting the best development at this point?

aaronrw said:
What device you guys think is getting the best development at this point?
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Anything 1+ related.

Badger50 said:
Anything 1+ related.
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They aren't Verizon compatible. I don't think

aaronrw said:
They aren't Verizon compatible. I don't think
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No, they're not. Was just answering the question generically. If your talking strictly Verizon compatible phones, then probably the google version of any pixel device.

aaronrw said:
What device you guys think is getting the best development at this point?
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Pixel 2 XL (Google version, unlocked) maybe not BEST, but as good as anyone else...
aaronrw said:
They aren't Verizon compatible. I don't think
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There are exceptions, as VZW did not carry the Huawei 6P but it does work, very well I might add, on their network. The downside of using a non-VZW device on their network is you lose some of the goodies that come with a VZW supplied device (free vzw cloud, asurion insurance, etc).
Badger50 said:
No, they're not. Was just answering the question generically. If your talking strictly Verizon compatible phones, then probably the google version of any pixel device.
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Pixel 2 XL (Google version, unlocked)
As a VZW user myself, I found that in order to root / mod any recent device offered by Verizon, you MUST buy from the manufacturer (unlocked).
Google has many offers similar to VZWs payment structure with 0% interest for two years, or you can buy it outright as I did and not mess with payments.
If you're stuck using only the devices offered through a VZW retailer, I don't think you're going to be rooting / modding your device anytime soon.

aaronrw said:
They aren't Verizon compatible. I don't think
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I guess it really comes down to your priorities. If you are willing to consider phones not sold by Verizon (but still CDMA compatible) you could start by looking HERE for some ideas. Although being unlock-able is a requirement, it doesn't guarantee dev popularity... so you would need to cross check your top choices here on XDA. Just go into the respective forums and have a look around at the number of ROM's/Kernels, etc. (TWRP/Magisk support is critical, too) for each respective phone. If Android 9.0 and regular functionality and security updates are important, you may find yourself circling back to the Pixel2 again. Prices will drop even more when the P3's hit. If you go this route I strongly recommend you buy directly from Google as your warranty experience will be far superior across the board than if you buy from anywhere else. Financing is available.

Thanks everyone, I got the Verizon edition for half price from Best buy, on payment plan. I'll be looking at Motorola or something like that now. The pixel is great but I miss my themes and ROMs

aaronrw said:
Thanks everyone, I got the Verizon edition for half price from Best buy, on payment plan. I'll be looking at Motorola or something like that now. The pixel is great but I miss my themes and ROMs
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Sell it on swappa. I bought another 2xl on swappa for 560$ you can probably get 450 then only a little bit more to get Google version.

aaronrw said:
Thanks everyone, I got the Verizon edition for half price from Best buy, on payment plan. I'll be looking at Motorola or something like that now. The pixel is great but I miss my themes and ROMs
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Just totally ignoring what everyone has said lol

Gilley said:
Just totally ignoring what everyone has said lol
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U are an idiot

aaronrw said:
U are an idiot
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You buy the wrong version and get mad at the "pixel" for it and when people tell you that you need google version you still just plan on Moto. Anything that comes out of verizon will be locked.

Gilley said:
You buy the wrong version and get mad at the "pixel" for it and when people tell you that you need google version you still just plan on Moto. Anything that comes out of verizon will be locked.
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I'm not buying from Verizon, nor did I say I was. Thanks for your very non insightful posts

aaronrw said:
I'm not buying from Verizon, nor did I say I was. Thanks for your very non insightful posts
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If you're getting the G5 plus you will definitely miss the Pixel. The G5 has middle of the road hardware.

Az Biker said:
There are exceptions, as VZW did not carry the Huawei 6P but it does work, very well I might add, on their network. The downside of using a non-VZW device on their network is you lose some of the goodies that come with a VZW supplied device (free vzw cloud, asurion insurance, etc).
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When you say Huawei 6P do you mean the Huawei built Nexus 6P? If so I'm pretty sure that won't work. Verizon is notorious for not allowing phones that they don't sell to be actived on its network even if the phone fully supports the network. I know for a fact that Verizon won't allow the Nexus 5X on its network. Unless Verizon has changed things since last November.

Related

Oem Unlocking greyed out on google pixel xl

Just bought this and when trying to enable oem unlocking it is greyed out and says connect to the internet or contact your carrier. Does anybody know what this is?
coldconfession13 said:
Just bought this and when trying to enable oem unlocking it is greyed out and says connect to the internet or contact your carrier. Does anybody know what this is?
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Where did you buy it?
craigslist guy said he bought it from google. I went through the setup without connecting to wifi and now I unlocked developer options and it says that so put my sim put it on wifi and connected my google but still says that.
coldconfession13 said:
craigslist guy said he bought it from google. I went through the setup without connecting to wifi and now I unlocked developer options and it says that so put my sim put it on wifi and connected my google but still says that.
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If "OEM unlocking" is grayed out, I suspect it was purchased from either Verizon or Best Buy. What Android version does it show in Settings/about the phone?
NMF260
coldconfession13 said:
NMF260
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Unfortunately, that's 7.1.1, so the vulnerability that allowed dePixel8 to unlock bootloader was patched. You won't be able to unlock the bootloader on this phone. If, as I suspect it's actually a VZW version. That's sure what it sounds like.
Dammit I guess I'm gonna have to live with it until something comes up. Bummer
coldconfession13 said:
Dammit I guess I'm gonna have to live with it until something comes up. Bummer
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Caveat Emptor
Sorry but it sounds like you may have gotten taken. I would never recommend to buy phones off craigslist. Your better off buying off of ebay or swappa. If you purchase on ebay you get buyers protection with a 30 day guarantee then if you fund by credit card you have 6 months of protection through your cc company but if you use that your paypal account or ebay account could have some kind of issue as ebay / paypal would take the loss and lets say they would hold it against you.
Yea lesson learned.
coldconfession13 said:
Yea lesson learned.
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Track him down and get your money back.
I could but I think I'm just going to keep it and pray for another hack
If only their was a way to tell if it was a verizon or google one.
coldconfession13 said:
If only their was a way to tell if it was a verizon or google one.
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There is. "OEM unlocking" grayed out. Only on VZW variant.
Yea I thought Verizon had logo on box. I remember that on Nexus 6 if I'm correct
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk
coldconfession13 said:
Yea I thought Verizon had logo on box. I remember that on Nexus 6 if I'm correct
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk
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Not on the Pixel XL. Box and device are indistinguishable from Google Play Store version.
Then again I'm sure the guy just didn't know the difference between Google and Verizon Pixel. He kept saying Google so now that I think about it I think he was saying Google because it's the pixel and he didn't know better. But for $600 I'll settle for a that. Maybe I won't update the device till any news of an updated hack.
coldconfession13 said:
Then again I'm sure the guy just didn't know the difference between Google and Verizon Pixel. He kept saying Google so now that I think about it I think he was saying Google because it's the pixel and he didn't know better. But for $600 I'll settle for a hack. Maybe I won't update the device till any news of an updated hack.
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I wouldn't feel too bad. You did very well at that price.
coldconfession13 said:
Then again I'm sure the guy just didn't know the difference between Google and Verizon Pixel. He kept saying Google so now that I think about it I think he was saying Google because it's the pixel and he didn't know better. But for $600 I'll settle for a that. Maybe I won't update the device till any news of an updated hack.
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It stinks but I'd either use it as is or resell it. I highly doubt there will be a future hack. It's not like the dev's can't figure it out but the audience is not there anymore. Not saying it can't happen, I just think it is unlikely.
The phone is great stock but if you want to play, sell the phone you just purchased and buy one from Google directly. You got it for a good price so you likely won't lose much, if anything.
Mike02z said:
I highly doubt there will be a future hack. It's not like the dev's can't figure it out but the audience is not there anymore. Not saying it can't happen, I just think it is unlikely.
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I agree with your assessment.

is it worth getting a Pixel 2 xl from verizon

just what the title says. they have a buy 1 get 1 free deal going on was wondering if it is worth it. it also comes with google home and chromecast. i would probably sell those on ebay though.
currently i have a nexus 6 and am running 8.1. i wouldnt mind updating but what good is the phone if the bootloader is locked.
kidhudi said:
just what the title says. they have a buy 1 get 1 free deal going on was wondering if it is worth it. it also comes with google home and chromecast. i would probably sell those on ebay though.
currently i have a nexus 6 and am running 8.1. i wouldnt mind updating but what good is the phone if the bootloader is locked.
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Asked and answered a gabillion times.
No
Get it from verizon and delete your bookmarks to XDA.
Ok. Sorry for asking
Thanks for the input
kidhudi said:
Ok. Sorry for asking
Thanks for the input
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Get it from Google if you can.
kidhudi said:
just what the title says. they have a buy 1 get 1 free deal going on was wondering if it is worth it. it also comes with google home and chromecast. i would probably sell those on ebay though.
currently i have a nexus 6 and am running 8.1. i wouldnt mind updating but what good is the phone if the bootloader is locked.
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Getting a VZW locked device, maybe not worth it if you are dead set on flashing custom stuff.
Getting TWO 2 XLs (selling one for $300-400) probably worth it unless you're dead set on flashing custom stuff.
Google offers the same financing that VZW has (24mo 0% interest) and for roughly the same monthly $$$ you'd pay at VZW, you get an unlocked 2 XL!
If you get the Google unlocked version, which can be used on Verizon's network; it's ABSOLUTELY worth it.
I took the Verizon sim card from my unlocked 6P and dropped it in my unlocked 2 XL, no issues!
The 2 XL was a great device before I rooted, flashed a cust kernel, and cust rom on it, and it's just that much better now that I'm running all the custom stuff.
kidhudi said:
Ok. Sorry for asking
Thanks for the input
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Dont be sorry for asking.
That wasnt my intent.
I was trying to emphasize the futility of the verizon phone.
Yeah. I want to switch from VZW. I would have had the phone in my hand by now if it wasn't for the locked bootloader. I am just looking to the future. I have my Nexus
6 obviously unlocked running Android Oreo. With a locked bootloader once the official OTAs are done. Then your screwed. From Google play store the deal isn't as good. Sucks
I just bought a Verizon pixel 2 XL and unlocked the bootloader. I'm currently running magisk 16.4 / elementalx kernel / nitrogenOS and love it.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
Intelli69 said:
I just bought a Verizon pixel 2 XL and unlocked the bootloader. I'm currently running magisk 16.4 / elementalx kernel / nitrogenOS and love it.
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You are likely to receive many inquiries as to how you unlocked the Verizon version. So be ready!
kidhudi said:
just what the title says. they have a buy 1 get 1 free deal going on was wondering if it is worth it. it also comes with google home and chromecast. i would probably sell those on ebay though.
currently i have a nexus 6 and am running 8.1. i wouldnt mind updating but what good is the phone if the bootloader is locked.
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its still a great device with a locked bootloader.
You're asking the wrong questions however.
If you dont have any intentions of rooting/custom ROM'ing or things of the like, there is no reason not to buy it from Verizon.
If you plan to, or even think you might want to do something custom with the device, then it would be better to buy from Google.
An unlockable bootloader for most people is irrelevant. Tech minded people (like those here on XDA) place a premium on it.
Whether or no it is 'worth' anything is only something you can answer.
uicnren said:
its still a great device with a locked bootloader.
You're asking the wrong questions however.
If you dont have any intentions of rooting/custom ROM'ing or things of the like, there is no reason not to buy it from Verizon.
If you plan to, or even think you might want to do something custom with the device, then it would be better to buy from Google.
An unlockable bootloader for most people is irrelevant. Tech minded people (like those here on XDA) place a premium on it.
Whether or no it is 'worth' anything is only something you can answer.
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thanks for the feedback. an unlocked bootloader is a pretty big deal for me. i missed the 2 for 1 deal and ended up getting the google version. probably better off that way i dont want to be married to verizon for another 2 years
Intelli69 said:
I just bought a Verizon pixel 2 XL and unlocked the bootloader. I'm currently running magisk 16.4 / elementalx kernel / nitrogenOS and love it.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
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How did you unlock the bl on a VZW Pixel 2 XL?
---------- Post added at 08:20 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:20 AM ----------
Badger50 said:
You are likely to receive many inquiries as to how you unlocked the Verizon version. So be ready!
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kidhudi said:
thanks for the feedback. an unlocked bootloader is a pretty big deal for me. i missed the 2 for 1 deal and ended up getting the google version. probably better off that way i dont want to be married to verizon for another 2 years
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You're mixing up unlocked bootloader and sim unlocked. Verizon and Google pixels are both sim unlocked.
JoeNeckbone said:
You're mixing up unlocked bootloader and sim unlocked. Verizon and Google pixels are both sim unlocked.
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no i am not. i just pointed out i didnt opt for the "deal" from verizon that mandates a new 2 year contact. and a locked vzw variant.
See glad I've read up last few days..I can't get financed through Google.. so stuck going to Verizon to get the pixel XL 2...I've owned the nexus 4,6 and 6p...love google phones..but I'm a hardcore custom fan...I've read how people have unlocked the bootloader with the Verizon model..even had a store rep tell me he unlocked his bootloader..yes bootloader..not sim unlock..I really think it's bs anyone can even stop you from unlocking it....where there is a will there is a way tho..if I want the phone I gotta figure it out..been reading a lot it's almost impossible to do..but I have a few ideas can't hurt to try..
atxhardrocker23 said:
See glad I've read up last few days..I can't get financed through Google.. so stuck going to Verizon to get the pixel XL 2...I've owned the nexus 4,6 and 6p...love google phones..but I'm a hardcore custom fan...I've read how people have unlocked the bootloader with the Verizon model..even had a store rep tell me he unlocked his bootloader..yes bootloader..not sim unlock..I really think it's bs anyone can even stop you from unlocking it....where there is a will there is a way tho..if I want the phone I gotta figure it out..been reading a lot it's almost impossible to do..but I have a few ideas can't hurt to try..
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You'll be a rock star if you can pull it off. Best of luck bruh! ??
I have an opportunity to pick up a Verizon 2 XL for $200. Only known issue is that the back left corner is shattered. I read you can replace that for under $20.
Screen is fine.
Do you think it would be worth picking it up as an intermediary and in a couple of months invest it towards a Google edition 2 XL (after repairing it)?
rdeets said:
I have an opportunity to pick up a Verizon 2 XL for $200. Only known issue is that the back left corner is shattered. I read you can replace that for under $20.
Screen is fine.
Do you think it would be worth picking it up as an intermediary and in a couple of months invest it towards a Google edition 2 XL (after repairing it)?
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I would take it, put vzw insurance on it and get it replaced....is that wrong?
Really a big turn off for me...I'm not approved from Google to finance..but want the pixel XL 2...so..got me looking at other phones..does anyone know of any Verizon phones that can be bootloader unlocked..or at least rooted..I'd rather custom roms but root is a have to have...( Unlimited tethering)... looking at the note 8, s8+ or the Moto force 2?.. thanks for the help..if there was a way to bypass tethering restrictions on the Verizon pixel XL 2
Id get it in a heartbeat... thanks
atxhardrocker23 said:
Really a big turn off for me...I'm not approved from Google to finance..but want the pixel XL 2...so..got me looking at other phones..does anyone know of any Verizon phones that can be bootloader unlocked..or at least rooted..I'd rather custom roms but root is a have to have...( Unlimited tethering)... looking at the note 8, s8+ or the Moto force 2?.. thanks for the help..if there was a way to bypass tethering restrictions on the Verizon pixel XL 2
Id get it in a heartbeat... thanks
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I believe the HTC phones are unlockable through their sunshine app. Jcase and Beaups.

Will Verizon unlock the Pixel?

If you own the phone and there's no balance why can't Verizon unlock it so that I can unlock the bootloader? I have a Tmobile Oneplus 6t as well and I purchased it outright and the TMobile Rep unlocked it for me. Has anyone ever called Verizon to unlock the Pixel?
I've used my pixel on T-Mobile without any issues.
mackentosh said:
If you own the phone and there's no balance why can't Verizon unlock it? I have a Tmobile Oneplus 6t as well and I purchased it outright and the TMobile Rep unlocked it for me. Has anyone ever called Verizon to unlock the Pixel?
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slimc84 said:
I've used my pixel on T-Mobile without any issues.
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That is true I am also using the Verizon variante on TMobile but what I'm saying is my TMobile OnePlus 6t came with a greyed out OEM Unlock option. So I called TMobile and told them I want the phone unlocked and they did it. I just had to factory reset the phone and the option was no longer greyed out. So I'm wondering why can't Verizon do the same for the Pixel? I mean I do own the phone out right no finance.
Verizon will not allow the bootloader unlock and I highly doubt any devs are looking into it either.
slimc84 said:
Verizon will not allow the bootloader unlock and I highly doubt any devs are looking into it either.
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That's stupid specially if I own the phone, it's like they still have control over it even though I own it. I guess that's what I get for being impatient and rushing to get the Pixel instead ordering it from Google and waiting on the shipping
I'm in the same boat but to be honest the whole point of a pixel in my opinion is to get a pure Google experience.. I don't have a valid reason to root to be honest. Also my work apps won't work on a rooted phone so might as well be bootloader locked
As I'm in Ireland and bought the 3xl while on a work trip on launch day I'm tempted to see if Verizon might unlock it for me.. really it's not making much difference to me
mackentosh said:
That's stupid specially if I own the phone, it's like they still have control over it even though I own it. I guess that's what I get for being impatient and rushing to get the Pixel instead ordering it from Google and waiting on the shipping
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So please elaborate. You bought the phone from Verizon to use on another network? How and why would you do that? If I wasn't on VZW I'd never get the phone from them... oh wait, did you buy it from BB, i.e. the VZW version on discount? If so you probably need to return it if it's still possible. If not then you are locked forever. Only way is to sell it and buy another. Yes, you own the phone but they own the discount you got from BB and basically you're screwed. Damn that sucks man.
bobby janow said:
So please elaborate. You bought the phone from Verizon to use on another network? How and why would you do that? If I wasn't on VZW I'd never get the phone from them... oh wait, did you buy it from BB, i.e. the VZW version on discount? If so you probably need to return it if it's still possible. If not then you are locked forever. Only way is to sell it and buy another. Yes, you own the phone but they own the discount you got from BB and basically you're screwed. Damn that sucks man.
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When I say I bought it outright I mean no discount, I paid just over $1000 for the pixel 3xl from best buy but it's all good I'll sell it and buy another one from google
Mine unlocked within 10 hours after purchase. I've read that all their phones were locked to Verizon before they're sold to prevent theft.
shawn605 said:
Mine unlocked within 10 hours after purchase. I've read that all their phones were locked to Verizon before they're sold to prevent theft.
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Your bootloader or your sims card,?
Homeboy76 said:
Your bootloader or your sims card,?
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He's talking about the SIM card.
VZW will not and has never unlocked a BL on any phone that had a locked BL. They say it protects their nerwork... More like they hate people hacking their apps and loosing money.
Last unlocked BL they sold was Nexus 6... Correct me, cuz I did zero research on this... Just my cloudy damaged memory
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk
airmaxx23 said:
He's talking about the SIM card.
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Thread: Pixel 3 XL Questions and Answers...
Question: Will Verizon unlock the Pixel?
I thought that's what he meant, I asked for clarification.
As for the bootloader, no they will not. I just moved to Pixel 3 XL after getting an OG Verizon PIxel XL right after launch (actually immediately after the dePixel exploit was published or I would have purchased direct from Google or chose another phone). This same discussion along with the same "it's not fair since I own the device" arguments has been going on for years. Look at Huawei for evidence that bootloader locking is becoming more restrictive and not less. You can only purchase the device outright, and even they have discontinued the bootloader code request system. Eventually an exploit might come around, but maybe it won't. jcase pretty much said the original dePixel find was an accident, and it took another year and a half or so to find another for a phone that was already being replaced. Either take a risk that one will be found knowing that it might never come, or bite the bullet and buy a Google version or a 6T (where even if you get it at full price from T-Mobile you might have to wait to get BL and carrier unlock).
MArtyChubbs said:
VZW will not and has never unlocked a BL on any phone that had a locked BL. They say it protects their nerwork...
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Does it protect their network if I never accept any OTA updates because such updates could fix any exploits that eventually will be used to allow me to root the phone that I bought and own?
I mean, I'm just wondering what they would say/do if a lot of people start telling them point blank that they are going to boycott all security and other updates until they allow BL unlocking.
andy214 said:
Does it protect their network if I never accept any OTA updates because such updates could fix any exploits that eventually will be used to allow me to root the phone that I bought and own?
I mean, I'm just wondering what they would say/do if a lot of people start telling them point blank that they are going to boycott all security and other updates until they allow BL unlocking.
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Easy answer. They don't care about consumer opinion until results are felt. They are concerned with brand, lawsuits , and corporate spending. Look at it this way, this thread was last posted on (by me) over a year ago, and there hasn't even been a sniff of an exploit or getting Big Red to change even once.
Once, a long time ago, Verizon carried bootloader unlockable phones. My Nexus 6 was from Verizon and it was fantastic. Google made a marketing decision for Verizon to push the Pixel OG exclusively, Verizon forced them to make a varient that could be locked down and full of Verizon crapware, just like every phone on their network. OG, 2, 3 and now 4, sold by Verizon will never get natively unlocked. The only hope would be a temp root solution and being able to toggle the unlock in developers options.
6 years ago unlocked "dev" phones weren't readily available, but Google sells an unlockable version now, with financing if you want, most people that want root just buy that.
mackentosh said:
When I say I bought it outright I mean no discount, I paid just over $1000 for the pixel 3xl from best buy but it's all good I'll sell it and buy another one from google
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Yea sell that for sure. I bought a new unlocked P3XL for 400.00 on Amazon last month.

Verizon sucks, but now what?

I bought my Pixel 2 XL off eBay with the hope of rooting but didn't check to make sure whether it was a Verizon or Google variant but unfortunately I got a Verizon variant. I know everybody's going to say sell it and buy a Google one but I can't afford to right now. Is there anything I can do as far as customization? I'd wanted to try substratum but unfortunately upgraded to Pie. Anyone have any ideas?
Installing a custom launcher and an icon pack is still an option, and there is ad blocking available that doesn't need root. That's about all I can think of.
rafe83 said:
I bought my Pixel 2 XL off eBay with the hope of rooting but didn't check to make sure whether it was a Verizon or Google variant but unfortunately I got a Verizon variant. I know everybody's going to say sell it and buy a Google one but I can't afford to right now. Is there anything I can do as far as customization? I'd wanted to try substratum but unfortunately upgraded to Pie. Anyone have any ideas?
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Send it in for a refurbished unit, alot of them come back unlocked versions.
Well, you are 100% right about Verizon, they do suck big-time. Sell that phone and get the Google unlocked one, even if you have to borrow the money. Good luck.
@d33dvb: That's a bit difficult. Ebay is not an authorized reseller according to Google's Terms and Conditions, and thus he doesn't have any warranty at all. Plus, how do you define "alot" here? Based upon my recollection of events, the bulk of the refurb devices sent back were Verizon units.
I was so impressed with it I didn't decide to root till after the warranty was up so now I'm stuck with it. I may try to sell it but I'm just mad at myself for not doing more research on root for it before I bought it.

Pixel 2 XL 2019

Is purchasing a Pixel 2 XL in 2019 worth it? I had originally purchased this phone immediately upon release but then the news of the screen issues surfaced and I cancelled my order. I was purchasing one sight unseen and didn't want to get a device with issues. I went and looked at roughly 6 devices between Best Buy and Verizon, after cancelling my order, and they all exhibited pretty significant blue shift and each phone was slightly different. This made cancelling my order a smart thing in my opinion. Paying $900+ for a phone with a crappy screen isn't something I would ever consider. I bought the Galaxy S9+ instead and it's display is utterly astonishing, truly spectacular.
Now to the present, I have just purchased two Pixel 2 XLs, one a factory replacement and the other a lightly used unit. Paid $330 total and I thought that was an excellent deal. The interesting thing is that both these phones have screen that are significantly better than the ones I viewed nearly 2 years ago. They are for my parents as Christmas gifts and it's now got me thinking that maybe I should jump on one.
I found the below listing on eBay and was wonder if it seems legit. Says the devices are new. Should I take a shot at one you think?
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Google-Pixel-2-XL-64GB-128GB-Verizon-GSM-Unlocked-Android-4G-Smartphone/383292162828?var=651785938283
robn30 said:
Is purchasing a Pixel 2 XL in 2019 worth it? I had originally purchased this phone immediately upon release but then the news of the screen issues surfaced and I cancelled my order. I was purchasing one sight unseen and didn't want to get a device with issues. I went and looked at roughly 6 devices between Best Buy and Verizon, after cancelling my order, and they all exhibited pretty significant blue shift and each phone was slightly different. This made cancelling my order a smart thing in my opinion. Paying $900+ for a phone with a crappy screen isn't something I would ever consider. I bought the Galaxy S9+ instead and it's display is utterly astonishing, truly spectacular.
Now to the present, I have just purchased two Pixel 2 XLs, one a factory replacement and the other a lightly used unit. Paid $330 total and I thought that was an excellent deal. The interesting thing is that both these phones have screen that are significantly better than the ones I viewed nearly 2 years ago. They are for my parents as Christmas gifts and it's now got me thinking that maybe I should jump on one.
I found the below listing on eBay and was wonder if it seems legit. Says the devices are new. Should I take a shot at one you think?
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Google-Pix...d-4G-Smartphone/383292162828?var=651785938283
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It seems legit, and that's a good price, however, it appears to be a Verizon variant, which means you probably can't unlock the bootloader if you wanted to root it.
Badger50 said:
It seems legit, and that's a good price, however, it appears to be a Verizon variant, which means you probably can't unlock the bootloader if you wanted to root it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's odd cause it says Verizon GSM Unlocked. Verizon isn't GSM it's CDMA and why would it also say Unlocked. I believe the seller is in Hong Kong so I think it just might be an English thing.
robn30 said:
It's odd cause it says Verizon GSM Unlocked. Verizon isn't GSM it's CDMA and why would it also say Unlocked. I believe the seller is in Hong Kong so I think it just might be an English thing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Basically means that it's carrier unlocked. The P2XL will work on GSM networks as well.
Badger50 said:
Basically means that it's carrier unlocked. The P2XL will work on GSM networks as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what I was thinking but the way the guy lists the heading is confusing. If you look at the item details it says AT&T, T-Mobile, Unlocked, Verizon. Would be easier if it just stated unlocked and works with all major US carriers. In any case I have asked the seller a direct question to confirm the fact it is unlocked. I am still rocking my S9+ which just updated to Android 10 and have been thrilled with it, but not having root and the ability to backup all my data is annoying. Even though the displays on the devices I just bought are way better than the initial XL releases, they still aren't as good as the S9+. Samsung simply makes the best displays. Hard to pass up $269 for a brand new factory Pixel 2 XL though. Unfortunately the Pixel 3 XL and Pixel 4 XL just don't do it for me, and the 4 XL isn't getting great reviews.
robn30 said:
That's what I was thinking but the way the guy lists the heading is confusing. If you look at the item details it says AT&T, T-Mobile, Unlocked, Verizon. Would be easier if it just stated unlocked and works with all major US carriers. In any case I have asked the seller a direct question to confirm the fact it is unlocked. I am still rocking my S9+ which just updated to Android 10 and have been thrilled with it, but not having root and the ability to backup all my data is annoying. Even though the displays on the devices I just bought are way better than the initial XL releases, they still aren't as good as the S9+. Samsung simply makes the best displays. Hard to pass up $269 for a brand new factory Pixel 2 XL though. Unfortunately the Pixel 3 XL and Pixel 4 XL just don't do it for me, and the 4 XL isn't getting great reviews.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hear ya on the Sammy displays! My wife's note 9 display is beautiful. Having said that, it still has stutters from time to time, lots of bloat, and no root. I absolutely love my rooted P4XL despite what the reviews say. Runs like a champ, and I get 2 day battery life because I'm a light user. I came from the P2XL, which I still keep as my backup. It was a great device for 2 years, and still works great. However, it feels really slow compared to my P4XL :good:
Badger50 said:
I hear ya on the Sammy displays! My wife's note 9 display is beautiful. Having said that, it still has stutters from time to time, lots of bloat, and no root. I absolutely love my rooted P4XL despite what the reviews say. Runs like a champ, and I get 2 day battery life because I'm a light user. I came from the P2XL, which I still keep as my backup. It was a great device for 2 years, and still works great. However, it feels really slow compared to my P4XL :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did the P4XL go back to using Samsung displays? I know the P2XL used LG P-OLED. I just wish they wouldn't hadn't done away with the fingerprint biometric reader.
It's a tough choice to give up my S9+ and try out the P2XL. I've got used to the S9+ and the UI doesn't bother me, especially since I installed the Pixel 2 XL Launcher . The S9+ is snappy and beautiful, but not root capable, and that's a bummer. S9+ also has expandable memory, wireless charging, and headphone jack. Man it's a tough call, I've been kicking it around for days now. The money isn't the issue at all, it's the giving up the S9+ itself, I have enjoyed it. It's the best not rooted phone I have ever had, and I haven't had a single issue with it. In the end, I am still looking to switch to the Pixel platform, but definitely didn't like the P3XL and I'm still evaluating the P4XL. We'll see what the P5XL brings to the table.
robn30 said:
Did the P4XL go back to using Samsung displays? I know the P2XL used LG P-OLED. I just wish they wouldn't hadn't done away with the fingerprint biometric reader.
It's a tough choice to give up my S9+ and try out the P2XL. I've got used to the S9+ and the UI doesn't bother me, especially since I installed the Pixel 2 XL Launcher . The S9+ is snappy and beautiful, but not root capable, and that's a bummer. S9+ also has expandable memory, wireless charging, and headphone jack. Man it's a tough call, I've been kicking it around for days now. The money isn't the issue at all, it's the giving up the S9+ itself, I have enjoyed it. It's the best not rooted phone I have ever had, and I haven't had a single issue with it. In the end, I am still looking to switch to the Pixel platform, but definitely didn't like the P3XL and I'm still evaluating the P4XL. We'll see what the P5XL brings to the table.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're serious S9+ cannot be rooted?
Root is essential for me. I can't live without AdAway, Titanium Backup and Island.
quera said:
You're serious S9+ cannot be rooted?
Root is essential for me. I can't live without AdAway, Titanium Backup and Island.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope, Snapdragon version can't be rooted. It really does suck as Android still doesn't allow backup of all app data via Google drive backup. I should say that developers have disabled backup within their app, Google doesn't control it. So you're left completely setting up your new phone for the apps that don't allow Google drive backup. Samsung has a great app, Smart Switch, but it still suffers from app developers who have disabled app backup.
Sent from my SM-G965U1 using Tapatalk
robn30 said:
Nope, Snapdragon version can't be rooted. It really does suck as Android still doesn't allow backup of all app data via Google drive backup. I should say that developers have disabled backup within their app, Google doesn't control it. So you're left completely setting up your new phone for the apps that don't allow Google drive backup. Samsung has a great app, Smart Switch, but it still suffers from app developers who have disabled app backup.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This method still works for backing everything up to your pc if you'd like to give it a try. No root required :good:
https://9to5google.com/2017/11/04/how-to-backup-restore-android-device-data-android-basics/
Badger50 said:
This method still works for backing everything up to your pc if you'd like to give it a try. No root required :good:
https://9to5google.com/2017/11/04/how-to-backup-restore-android-device-data-android-basics/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately, I have tried this and any app that has ADB backup disabled will not backup. This is the same method the app Helium attempts to use and many apps won't backup because the developer has set ADB backup to disable.
Sent from my SM-G965U1 using Tapatalk
robn30 said:
Unfortunately, I have tried this and any app that has ADB backup disabled will not backup. This is the same method the app Helium attempts to use and many apps won't backup because the developer has set ADB backup to disable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well ain't that a kick in the can! Guess that's why we like to root. At least for now, and until android becomes iOS 2.0, TiBu still works for user apps.
I went ahead and pulled the string on the eBay listing I posted. It's definitely a seller in Hong Kong so that worries me a bit. Luckily VISA or Mastercard are pretty good if you get scammed. Happened to me once on a purchase that was made out of China. The item I got was not as described and PayPal unfortunately wouldn't resolve it for some reason. Kind of irritated me that they wouldn't, but my VISA took care of it and performed a charge back no problems at all. If it comes and is perfect by all accounts, I'll let folks know it's legit. For that price you could get a fresh P2XL and rock on for years to come.
Badger50 said:
Well ain't that a kick in the can! Guess that's why we like to root. At least for now, and until android becomes iOS 2.0, TiBu still works for user apps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
, a kick in the can for sure! Just pulled the string on that eBay listing. We'll see how it turns out and I'll be glad to get back in the root game.
robn30 said:
, a kick in the can for sure! Just pulled the string on that eBay listing. We'll see how it turns out and I'll be glad to get back in the root game.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wish you luck my friend, and hope that you can indeed root that device. However, don't be overly surprised if you can't ?
Badger50 said:
I wish you luck my friend, and hope that you can indeed root that device. However, don't be overly surprised if you can't [emoji848]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah if I get the feeling that it's carrier locked, I'll send it back. No way I would go this route if root isn't possible. We will see I guess, hoping for the best.
Sent from my SM-G965U1 using Tapatalk
robn30 said:
It's odd cause it says Verizon GSM Unlocked. Verizon isn't GSM it's CDMA and why would it also say Unlocked. I believe the seller is in Hong Kong so I think it just might be an English thing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This isn't correct. Verizon is both GSM and CDMA now, and as of January 1, 2020 they will be dropping support for CDMA completely.
https://www.verizonwireless.com/support/knowledge-base-218813/
xunholyx said:
This isn't correct. Verizon is both GSM and CDMA now, and as of January 1, 2020 they will be dropping support for CDMA completely.
https://www.verizonwireless.com/support/knowledge-base-218813/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So now our pixels will now be on GSM? That finally makes sense :good:
xunholyx said:
This isn't correct. Verizon is both GSM and CDMA now, and as of January 1, 2020 they will be dropping support for CDMA completely.
https://www.verizonwireless.com/support/knowledge-base-218813/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Verizon isn't GSM. It's currently CDMA and LTE with 5G rolling out. That article simply states that old 3G and non-HD voice 4G will no longer be able to activate on Verizon's network. Verizon has never been GSM, to my knowledge. Soon there will be no such thing as GSM or CDMA, only 4G and 5G, and whatever comes after that.
Sent from my SM-G965U1 using Tapatalk
robn30 said:
Verizon isn't GSM. It's currently CDMA and LTE with 5G rolling out. That article simply states that old 3G and non-HD voice 4G will no longer be able to activate on Verizon's network. Verizon has never been GSM, to my knowledge. Soon there will be no such thing as GSM or CDMA, only 4G and 5G, and whatever comes after that.
Sent from my SM-G965U1 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The LTE network on Verizon is a GSM network.
https://community.verizonwireless.com/t5/Bring-Your-Own-Device/Is-there-a-GSM-network/td-p/1072919

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