cross-posted from: https://discuss.tchncs.de/post/44544181

I read about Google’s decision of not releasing the firmware source code going forward. Is it still the case? If it is, should one purchase any Pixel 8/9/10 series in hope of keeping it for a long time?

I am planning to purchase a new Pixel 9 (used ones are not an option unfortunately) during the Black Friday or something. It will be a substantial amount but I am hoping it will be justified with amortisation.

Sorry if this is a dumb question, but I cannot find a clear cut answer in the forums.

  • shortwavesurfer@lemmy.zip
    link
    fedilink
    arrow-up
    18
    arrow-down
    1
    ·
    19 hours ago

    This just relegates the pixel to the same status as other devices such as Motorola or OnePlus.

    Custom operating systems will still absolutely work on them, but it will take longer to get the updates because of the source code not being released like it was.

    If you imagine it like a plane, they got bumped down from first class to coach, but they did not get kicked off the plane entirely.

    • Goodlucksil@lemmy.dbzer0.com
      link
      fedilink
      arrow-up
      8
      arrow-down
      3
      ·
      17 hours ago

      Then there will be no point in making Pixel custom roms, as the main selling point (quick Android updates) will be null.

      • shortwavesurfer@lemmy.zip
        link
        fedilink
        arrow-up
        10
        arrow-down
        1
        ·
        17 hours ago

        I don’t see that as the main selling point. I see not having Google as the main selling point, and it’s not like the updates will be that much slower. It might take them like a month instead of a week. That’s not a bad problem.

  • cyborganism@piefed.ca
    link
    fedilink
    English
    arrow-up
    11
    ·
    18 hours ago

    Is there one god damn phone out there we can buy that’s somewhat ethical and redirects or privacy?

  • frongt@lemmy.zip
    link
    fedilink
    arrow-up
    9
    ·
    18 hours ago

    They are releasing the code, just as release snapshots. We don’t know how it’s going to affect GrapheneOS yet.