How to confirm my Pixel will support GrapheneOS?

Ed_Flecko

I have a Pixel 4a5g that I'd like to install GrapheneOS on. I bought the phone from my local Xfinity store.

On the Web Installer page for GrapheneOS (https://grapheneos.org/install/web), the instructions say, "To make sure that the device can be unlocked to install GrapheneOS, avoid carrier variants of the devices.".

Is there a way to tell that your phone can or cannot support GrapheneOS before even attempting to install it? I see that I can access the "Developer" mode and I can also enable the "OEM unlocking" option.

Does that mean that my phone IS capable of installing GrapheneOS?

Thank you,
Ed

other8026

Ed_Flecko you can check the list on the website to see what devices are supported: https://grapheneos.org/faq#supported-devices

The 4a (5G) is still getting extended support, but it can no longer be considered secure. If you try out GrapheneOS and find that you like it, you should get a newer phone.

N1b

Ed_Flecko I see that I can access the "Developer" mode and I can also enable the "OEM unlocking" option.

This is exactly what's needed, a supported device and the ability to enable OEM unlocking. Therefore you will be able to install GOS (and lose all the current data on your device in the process, so make backups if there's something important).

The comments above are correct though, if you figure you want to keep using GOS, it's highly advised to get a more current device. Probably one of the Pixel 8 generation is best in terms of cost per supported year. If I were you, I'd get a Pixel 8a once it's out or a Pixel 8 or 8 Pro when it's discounted to make way for the Pixel 9 series.

Vagabond8630

Ed_Flecko

What others have said regarding the security flaws of an EOL device that is no longer receiving updates is 100% correct, but it seems no one has actually answered your question:

Does that mean that my phone IS capable of installing GrapheneOS?

Yes, carrier-variants will have the OEM unlocking option grayed out, but since your Pixel 4a5g has the option enabled, you will be able to install GrapheneOS on your device.

With that said, I recommend you to follow GOS security best practices and to use a phone that is not EOL.

Blastoidea

Pixel 4a5G is EOL, and not recommended or supported.

bookreader

Vagabond8630 With that said, I recommend you to follow GOS security best practices and to use a phone that is not EOL.

Keep in mind that "best practices" are just that... "best". In reality, it will still be a "better" practice to run GrapheneOS on an EOL device, than the factory OS on that same device.

Ed_Flecko

Thank you all for your input and advice!

:-)