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Would be good to hear your thoughts on the Pixel vs your S25U please.
Having passed my S25 Ultra on to a family member, I have had no reason to second-guess my decision. The Pixel has proven to be an excellent choice. I'm using the official silicone case, and the phone feels great in hand, with a well-balanced weight. Its slightly narrower design, compared to the Samsung, significantly improves handling.

The Google ecosystem aligns perfectly with my minimalist preferences. It provides everything I need without unnecessary clutter. I've found several software features to be exceptionally useful, including Magic Cue, the dedicated screenshot management, Call Screen, and the AI capabilities in Google Photos.

The device has also exceeded my expectations regarding battery life and network connectivity, which I'd heard mixed reviews about. The Tensor G5 processor handles all my tasks with ease, as I do not use my phone for gaming. Google has genuinely impressed me, especially considering my last experience with a Pixel was the Pixel 2.

To top it all off, the Galaxy Watch8 Classic also appears to be working seamlessly with the device.
 
Having passed my S25 Ultra on to a family member, I have had no reason to second-guess my decision. The Pixel has proven to be an excellent choice. I'm using the official silicone case, and the phone feels great in hand, with a well-balanced weight. Its slightly narrower design, compared to the Samsung, significantly improves handling.

The Google ecosystem aligns perfectly with my minimalist preferences. It provides everything I need without unnecessary clutter. I've found several software features to be exceptionally useful, including Magic Cue, the dedicated screenshot management, Call Screen, and the AI capabilities in Google Photos.

The device has also exceeded my expectations regarding battery life and network connectivity, which I'd heard mixed reviews about. The Tensor G5 processor handles all my tasks with ease, as I do not use my phone for gaming. Google has genuinely impressed me, especially considering my last experience with a Pixel was the Pixel 2.

To top it all off, the Galaxy Watch8 Classic also appears to be working seamlessly with the device.
Thank you. That’s very helpful. You’ll also benefit from instant software updates.

What’s your take on the customisation differences between the two? I know Samsung goes all out and offers pretty much everything you could want, whilst the Pixel doesn’t. Is there anything you’re missing from the S25U that you can’t get on the Pixel. What’s your Home Screen like? Thanks.
 
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So... Anyone unlock their bootloader and root yet? Sounds like the window for doing so is closing even more now.

Did have a passing thought of kind of consolidating some devices, maybe spring for a fold, unlock the thing, root and install a degoogled OS on it. Kind of a huge somewhat expensive gamble though especially with my luck with these devices.
 
So... Anyone unlock their bootloader and root yet? Sounds like the window for doing so is closing even more now.

Did have a passing thought of kind of consolidating some devices, maybe spring for a fold, unlock the thing, root and install a degoogled OS on it. Kind of a huge somewhat expensive gamble though especially with my luck with these devices.


I used to be a big root and custom ROM guy "back in the day" but I haven't rooted my phones in years now, it's become such a pain in the butt compared to how it used to be.
 
likewise - I don't even load betas anymore.
I used to be a big root and custom ROM guy "back in the day" but I haven't rooted my phones in years now, it's become such a pain in the butt compared to how it used to be.

I really miss the excitement of installing custom firmware on my phone and showing it to my friends. They would be like what kind or version of Samsung phone do you have and I would explain. It was fun.

Betas were also fun to try new features. They used to vary from barely stable to practically ready to go. I think our phones have become so much more important than in the past so to have a beta glitch or wipe and install takes way more work than in the past. Just getting your phone backed up and set up is a long process so installing betas is a much more daunting process than in the past. The software installation of a new OS is easy but the restoration process is a pain.

If Samsung opened up the bootloader and didn't void warranty it could reignite development but until then I think custom roms are hanging by a thread and if trends continue as they are may be extinct soon.
 
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Thank you. That’s very helpful. You’ll also benefit from instant software updates.

What’s your take on the customisation differences between the two? I know Samsung goes all out and offers pretty much everything you could want, whilst the Pixel doesn’t. Is there anything you’re missing from the S25U that you can’t get on the Pixel. What’s your Home Screen like? Thanks.
You're correct, the prompt delivery of software updates is a key benefit, and many popular applications now feel more cohesively integrated with the Pixel UI. While I've noticed a minor issue with some apps, such as Google Maps, not consistently utilising the full screen in landscape mode, this has not detracted from the overall experience.

In terms of customisation, I have found the device to be highly flexible. I was able to replicate my preferred home screen layout, which was originally adapted from the iPhone 16 Pro and subsequently the S25 Ultra, with no difficulty. While all platforms offer similar customisation capabilities, I particularly favour the Pixel's lock screen. The ability to see small notification logos on the always-on display is an extremely useful feature.

The extensive selection of default wallpapers also aligns perfectly with my minimalist aesthetic. Overall, I am consistently discovering new, intuitive software features that enhance the user experience, and I remain very satisfied with the device.
 
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Returned my Mous super thin case and got the Bellroy leather in black. It's very nice, it's no Ryan London but it's better than the last few years of Apple leather cases.
 
Having passed my S25 Ultra on to a family member, I have had no reason to second-guess my decision. The Pixel has proven to be an excellent choice. I'm using the official silicone case, and the phone feels great in hand, with a well-balanced weight. Its slightly narrower design, compared to the Samsung, significantly improves handling.

The Google ecosystem aligns perfectly with my minimalist preferences. It provides everything I need without unnecessary clutter. I've found several software features to be exceptionally useful, including Magic Cue, the dedicated screenshot management, Call Screen, and the AI capabilities in Google Photos.

The device has also exceeded my expectations regarding battery life and network connectivity, which I'd heard mixed reviews about. The Tensor G5 processor handles all my tasks with ease, as I do not use my phone for gaming. Google has genuinely impressed me, especially considering my last experience with a Pixel was the Pixel 2.

To top it all off, the Galaxy Watch8 Classic also appears to be working seamlessly with the device.
Well that's sold it for me. I'm gonna switch my s25 U for the pixel 10 pro xl. It's been years since I've had a pixel so will be good to scratch the itch. I'm tempted to go through my carrier so I can return it within 14 days if not happy
 
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Returned my Mous super thin case and got the Bellroy leather in black. It's very nice, it's no Ryan London but it's better than the last few years of Apple leather cases.
What was wrong with the Mous case? Thinking of getting the super thin clear case when it's back in stock!
 
You're correct, the prompt delivery of software updates is a key benefit, and many popular applications now feel more cohesively integrated with the Pixel UI. While I've noticed a minor issue with some apps, such as Google Maps, not consistently utilising the full screen in landscape mode, this has not detracted from the overall experience.

In terms of customisation, I have found the device to be highly flexible. I was able to replicate my preferred home screen layout, which was originally adapted from the iPhone 16 Pro and subsequently the S25 Ultra, with no difficulty. While all platforms offer similar customisation capabilities, I particularly favour the Pixel's lock screen. The ability to see small notification logos on the always-on display is an extremely useful feature.

The extensive selection of default wallpapers also aligns perfectly with my minimalist aesthetic. Overall, I am consistently discovering new, intuitive software features that enhance the user experience, and I remain very satisfied with the device.
Thank you, I appreciate your time. That’s very kind. What’s your battery been like compared to the iPhone and S25U?
 
What was wrong with the Mous case? Thinking of getting the super thin clear case when it's back in stock!
Might be more to do with me but it always looked sweaty and greasy 😂 plus I didn't want to risk it with how little protection it would provide on drops
 
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I really miss the excitement of installing custom firmware on my phone and showing it to my friends. They would be like what kind or version of Samsung phone do you have and I would explain. It was fun.

Betas were also fun to try new features. They used to vary from barely stable to practically ready to go. I think our phones have become so much more important than in the past so to have a beta glitch or wipe and install takes way more work than in the past. Just getting your phone backed up and set up is a long process so installing betas is a much more daunting process than in the past. The software installation of a new OS is easy but the restoration process is a pain.

If Samsung opened up the bootloader and didn't void warranty it could reignite development but until then I think custom roms are hanging by a thread and if trends continue as they are may be extinct soon.
We got older.... now I just want to it to work. Device specific MFA was one of the reasons I stopped tinkering with phones. Changing launchers was the biggest shift I made in the past few years, from Nova to Niagara.
 
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We got older.... now I just want to it to work. Device specific MFA was one of the reasons I stopped tinkering with phones. Changing launchers was the biggest shift I made in the past few years, from Nova to Niagara.
I'm in my late 40s and still enjoy tinkering. I don't think I will ever outgrow it. I am getting apps off GitHub, patching apps with ReVanced, and playing with Shizuku. Don't feel a need to unlock my bootloader though. Guess that makes me a "script kiddy" and not "1337"?
 
I'm in my late 40s and still enjoy tinkering. I don't think I will ever outgrow it. I am getting apps off GitHub, patching apps with ReVanced, and playing with Shizuku. Don't feel a need to unlock my bootloader though. Guess that makes me a "script kiddy" and not "1337"?
lol, thank you for making me feel included. I haven't seen those terms since 2009. My tinkering bone is still strong, but it's home networking and security now. Firewall, network wide VPN, matter automation, Ubiquiti cameras. Internet running slow? Let me go ahead and load up a fresh wireguard config. Such a good waste of time :)
 
If any Samsung users miss the edge panel, download the Panels app on the Play store, I paid for the full version. Completely customizable. My Bluetooth issues seem to be resolved, turning off LE audio fixed it but brings back delay when watching videos. On my Samsung phone I don't need to do anything to settings, videos are always perfectly synced. My Watch Ultra also has stayed connected to the phone, so it seems as if using a Samsung phone while trying to pair with the Pixel somehow makes it work.

20250909_121530.jpg20250909_121654.jpg
 
If any Samsung users miss the edge panel, download the Panels app on the Play store, I paid for the full version. Completely customizable. My Bluetooth issues seem to be resolved, turning off LE audio fixed it but brings back delay when watching videos. On my Samsung phone I don't need to do anything to settings, videos are always perfectly synced. My Watch Ultra also has stayed connected to the phone, so it seems as if using a Samsung phone while trying to pair with the Pixel somehow makes it work.

View attachment 2544898View attachment 2544901
This?
36e56acb1f694dd5a7edfec34cffa126.jpg
 
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One reason I was inquiring about root and bootloader unlock was the big G closing down the system even more (heard some of the binary stuff is not even open anymore) and now soon they are going to require developer verification even to install apps from outside the app store. Seriously doubt they'll allow ad block and magisk...

Been thinking about a way around this like pinhole or something. Or a dumb phone lol...
 
One reason I was inquiring about root and bootloader unlock was the big G closing down the system even more (heard some of the binary stuff is not even open anymore) and now soon they are going to require developer verification even to install apps from outside the app store. Seriously doubt they'll allow ad block and magisk...

Been thinking about a way around this like pinhole or something. Or a dumb phone lol...
Something like GrapheneOS is still an option (until we lose root/unlocked bootloader).
 
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