I just picked up a 7a directly from Google, unlocked. That's honestly the only way I recommend going about it, especially if the plan is to install Graphene.
USB-C for charging and data.
this post was submitted on 07 Mar 2024
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Just don't get a carrier variant and you'll be fine. You can also check for sure by putting the device's IMEI into https://store.google.com/repair. For example, here's what mine says: Pixel 6 Pro Stormy Black 128GB (Unlocked) (Pristine)
You don't need to worry about whether it's relockable, but it's important that it can be unlocked in the first place. Just don't get it from a carrier and you'll be fine. Buy the phone from some store like Best Buy.
To answer your second question: It uses USB-C.
I got my Pixel 8 Pro from Best Buy and it's unlocked. The other pixels come unlocked too, since they just get them from Google. I've been using Verizon as my carrier without any issue.
Why do you want to relock it?
More secure: any bootloader tampering happening via physical access to the device will trip the warning.
More compatible: some apps (banks usually) flag an unlocked bootloader as a security threat.
Thanks for answering!
Do NOT relock a phone unless stock ROM is installed!
The system image signature will be different and you will brick your phone.
This is true for Samsung and Xiaomi, might not be true for Pixels, but I wouldn't risk it.
Bootloader relocking is supported with an alternative OS on a Pixel. GrapheneOS supplies an avb custom key and they expect that you use their OS with a locked bootloader.
Thanks! Good to know