Google said that Verizon will be in control of system-level updates for the Google Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones.
This means the Verizon-branded Pixels may not receive significant system updates alongside the unlocked versions sold by Google itself.
“Monthly security updates will come from Google (for all models), and system updates will be managed by Verizon for Verizon models, and Google for unlocked models bought from Google Store,” said Google in a statement provided to 9to5Google.
Google typically exercises control over its own branded devices and distributes system updates when it wants to. In fact, this is the primary benefit of purchasing a Google Pixel/Nexus handset rather than a carrier model.
Consumers who buy the Verizon-branded Pixel will be losing this benefit. Verizon also intends to install third-party apps — often called bloatware — on its version of the Pixel, though Verizon contends that users will be able to delete unwanted apps.
Moreover, the Verizon variant will ship with a locked bootloader, which prevents owners from side loading their own system builds.
The Pixel and Pixel XL are available unlocked from Google, and Google is offering financing for those who don’t want to pay the full retail price up front.
