With the launch of Pixel devices, the beloved Nexus lineup finally came to an end which left many fans disappointed. Nexus devices were preferred choice for developers and enthusiasts due to its open-source nature and easily unlockable bootloader, so when Google put the Nexus lineup to rest and launched its new iteration in form of Pixel phones, many users had speculated that whether or not Pixel will offer same openness as Nexus lineup or will be completely locked down, but now Google has confirmed that just like Nexus devices, Pixel phones can also be unlocked and rooted.
In a comment sent to Android Wonderhow, a Google spokesperson, named Iska Saric, confirmed that new Pixel devices bought from Google’s own store comes with unlockable bootloader and can be easily rooted. This is a great news for the developer community as well as enthusiasts, as being able to unlock and root Pixel devices will open up doors for custom ROMs like CyanogenMod and the community developments that usually requires root access or custom recovery. Do keep in mind that only Pixel phones bought directly from the Google Store are can be rooted as they come with unlockable bootloader while Pixel devices sold through carriers are out of luck as they ships with an unlocked bootloader, That means Pixel phones bought through Verizon, Best Buy or any other retailer wouldn’t be able to enjoy the goodies of custom ROMs and other developments as they cannot be rooted. The Pixel and Pixel XL comes with a new interesting feature called “Seamless Updates” which automatically applies system updates in the background, which many believed it will make it possible to install official OTA updates even on rooted devices, but sadly, Google’s spokesperson made it clear that it’s not possible as rooting a smartphone modifies system partition so an OTA update will simply fail to install on rooted devices.
So if rooting and flashing is anything but your business, be sure to pick up your Pixel device directly from the Google store rather than from the carrier. What’s more, the Google version of the Pixel phone works with all four carriers in the US, including Verizon and also supports WiFi calling and HD voice as confirmed by Verizon. On top of that, if you don’t want to pay full payment upfront, Google is also offering financing option for a painless purchase.