Earlier this month, it was reported that Verizon Wireless would be handling the updates for the upcoming Phone by Google, the Pixel and Pixel XL. As expected, the reaction to that report, which was released based on comments made by Google, was somber, as many believed that meant “more of the same,” and that Verizon would impede software updates for the flagship handset. Potentially, this meant that the Pixel units sold by Google directly would be faster to update, and boast new features before the Verizon variants saw them. However, based on new information provide to Ars Technica, Verizon won’t be standing in the way of updates at all. The carrier has confirmed that software updates, along with security updates (which was previously confirmed), will arrive at the same time as Google’s direct sale units. On top of that, there will be only three preinstalled apps (Go90, Verizon Messages, and MyVerizon), each of which can be completely uninstalled from the device: Google has independently confirmed the (good) news, too: 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.” So, for any future Verizon Pixel/Pixel XL owners, that has to be a breath of fresh air.
