One of the things people most liked to get angry about regarding Google's Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones recently was the update situation on Verizon.
As you may know, if you're in the US Verizon is currently the only big
carrier selling them. You can also grab a Pixel from the Google store or
Project Fi, but not AT&T, Sprint, or T-Mobile. At least not yet.
Add to that the fact that Verizon really isn't generally known for
pushing software updates quickly to its devices, plus a poorly worded
statement by a Google spokesperson saying "Monthly security updates will
come from Google, and system updates will be managed by Verizon for
Verizon models, and Google for unlocked models bought from Google Store"
- and you've got yourself a scandal.
Well, it turns out that all that outrage was for nothing. Today
Verizon finally decided to issue its own statement on the matter. Here
it is in full:
First and foremost, all operating system and security
updates to the Pixel devices will happen in partnership with Google. In
other words, when Google releases an update, Verizon phones will
receive the same update at the same time (much like iOS updates).
Verizon will not stand in the way of any major updates and users will
get all updates at the same time as Google.
Also, the Verizon version of the Google Pixel is carrier unlocked, so
you can use it where ever you like. Finally, we have three apps
pre-installed on the phone Go90, My Verizon (which is your account
management tool) and Verizon Messages (your messaging app). As you
noted, all three can easily be uninstalled by the user.
This was sent to
Ars Technica, and Google told the publication
that "OS updates and monthly security patches will be updated on all
Pixel devices (Verizon and non-Verizon versions) simultaneously",
thankfully clarifying its earlier statement.
At this point you really shouldn't be worried about how soon the
Pixels will get updates if you buy either one from Verizon. The iPhones
sold by the carrier all get updates at the same time as those from other
companies, and Big Red itself made that comparison when talking about
the Pixels. What's more, surprisingly the Pixels from Verizon are being
offered unlocked too, just like those from the Google store.
As for the infamous Verizon bloatware, it consists of exactly three
apps, and all of them can be uninstalled. So hopefully this controversy
will finally die down, letting the entire internet once again focus on
how the Pixels are overpriced, have chins that are too big, and lack
essential features such as wireless charging, OIS, and water resistance.
Source
VIA
