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Google replacing Pixel 2 XLs sent to customers without Android installed

Pixel 2 XL, ask more of your phone. (Source: Google)
Pixel 2 XL, ask more of your phone. (Source: Google)
Continuing the trend of the Pixel 2 XL, a small number of users have complained on Reddit and the Ars Technica forums about receiving devices which are completely missing the operating system. Google reports that they have fixed this going forwards, and they are sending replacement devices for those affected.
Android Fail Google Pixel Software Touchscreen

There have been a few unnecessary issues around the Pixel 2 launch. The screen on the Pixel 2 XL is prone to burn in (or maybe just a temporary ghosting/shadow), and excessive blue color shift. There are software problems too such as Android Auto causing random software and UI crashes on both the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL.

A surprising problem that showed itself a couple of days ago was the recent news that some users were receiving Pixel 2 XLs with no operating system installed. The phone was effectively bricked on arrival, as can be seen on Reddit and the Ars Technica Forums.

We think Google was trialling a new initiative to help reduce Android fragmentation, but a few witty Redditors have other reasons for this "feature":

  • “Hey you asked for no bloatware, you got no bloatware.” – genos1213
  • “This is why I love the Pixel. 0 bloat.” – Deadpool5405
  • “New Pixel 2. No OS courageus [sic]” - MasterRaceLordGaben

In response to Engadget, Google claims that the problem has been fixed and won’t affect any Pixel 2 XL devices going forwards. Replacement devices have been sent to those affected.

Pixel 2 XL missing the operating system. (Source: MAKES_PEOPLE_MAD via Reddit)
Pixel 2 XL missing the operating system. (Source: MAKES_PEOPLE_MAD via Reddit)

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > News > News Archive > Newsarchive 2017 11 > Google replacing Pixel 2 XLs sent to customers without Android installed
Craig Ward, 2017-11- 4 (Update: 2017-11- 4)