Pixel pre-purchase questions to confirm GrapheneOS compatibility?

Ed_Flecko

I have a Pixel 4a 5g phone with GrapheneOS installed, but I'm shopping for a new Pixel 8 model since the 4a 5g is end of life.

To find the best price for a model 8, I'm primarily looking for "open box" phones such as : https://www.bestbuy.com/product/google-pixel-8-128gb-unlocked-obsidian/6559236/openbox?condition=excellent

Since I have installed GOS on my current phone, I know how to tell if a phone is capable of unlocking the bootloader, but how do I know if a phone is "carrier unlocked" as well before I buy it? The phone in the above link says it's "unlocked", but I'm guessing that typically means "carrier" unlocked and not necessarily "bootloader" unlocked?

Do you have any recommendations on where to shop for phones? I sort of like Best Buy because I can hold the phone in my hand before buying it but Amazon or WalMart might be OK since their return policy is pretty flexible if I discover the phone is incapable of allowing GOS to be installed.

Thank you!

commodore64

Ed_Flecko Hello Ed, I purchased my Pixel 6 Pro from TheGizmoTrader I followed their inventory for a couple weeks and found the details listed for their items very helpful . They clearly indicate the carrier the phone will work with and whether it is "Network Unlocked" (meaning carrier unlocked) of if it is "Factory Unlocked" (meaning OEM unlocked). You'll want factory/oem unlocked. They have several high resolution pictures of each Pixel and all from the same angels for comparison. Prices seem reasonable and I received it quickly. I'm very happy with the phone I purchased and with GOS.

Hope this helps.

ErnestThornhill

Irony aside, your best and safest bet is to purchase the device directly from Google since you'll have the option to select "Unlocked" and have the comfort and reassurance of knowing you'll be able to use GrapheneOS on it before spending your money. You'll also avoid any stress and headache with having to return or not being able to return the device. More often than not, when a listing states that a device is "unlocked", it's referring to Carrier- and not OEM/bootloader-unlocked.

m4ri0g

AFAIK oem unlocked is done by toggling the appropriate setting inside developper tools and then actually unlocking it using fastboot.
the carrier locked does not prevent to install grapheneOS.
no phone will come with an unlocked bootloader and if its is return immediately.