Google’s Pixel 2 XL has a lot of great attributes, but the lack of proper quality control on a lot of units is what’s causing issues for users. Display issues aside, though, another strange issue has popped up — some users are reporting that their Pixel 2 XLs are arriving without a crucial element: Android.
Multiple reports on Reddit, one as recent as last night, show users who are receiving brand new Pixel 2 XLs, just missing Android. Upon first boot, the device simply says that it “can’t find valid operating system” and can’t go any further.
Unfortunately, there’s no easy way to get the OS installed on these devices once in the customer’s hands, so the only method to fix this is to replace the device, which Google is thankfully doing. If you’re running into the problem, you can start a claim with Google here.
I have feeling Google rushed this product to beat Apple to market and its causing them some issues.