Verizon is the major carrier partner for Google's Pixel and Pixel XL. But all buyers are warned not to buy their units on Verizon. It doesn't mean that it is your only option for getting the Google's device.
Monthly security updates will come from Google (for all models), and system updates will be managed by Verizon for Verizon models, and Google for unlocked models bought from Google Store.
This is what Google said in an email regarding the topic. The Pixel phone has a very odd relationship with Verizon. In most countries, Google and Verizon are advertising the device as a "Verizon Exclusive," but the Pixel and Pixel XL phones are also available from the Google Stores, Best Buy and Walmart. It is not a Verizon-specific product, no matter what some of the ad copy says.
Buying From A Carrier
Some people buy the Google Pixel and Pixel XL from a carrier because they don't want to pay the full price of the gadget. Great news, this year, Google itself is also offering financing or investment plans that are similar to what a carrier would offer. The company also has "device protection" plan for $100 that is similar to the insurance carriers offer. Just like the other plans from a carrier, a two-year contract is applied.
Is It Worth The Price?
The new Google's Pixel smartphones are more expensive than earlier Google Nexus devices, but they offer features on strong software and hardware combination, sure fast updates, and the intelligent and quick-response Google Assistant. They're priced almost exactly the same as the iPhone 7 and Samsung's Galaxy Note 7, and it's clear Google is competing to steal some of their customers.
It's somewhat easy to pre-order Google's smartphones. All you need to do is head over to Google's website, choose the model of the phone, and pay off the device in full payment or in other terms depends on your credit card. You'll get the Pixel or Pixel XL unlocked - that means you can use it on a wide variety of carriers.