I've noticed in this type of thread that the typical HNer can't fathom that people like using Android as an OS and they're not using it solely because you can sideload apps or install custom ROMs. Maybe there's a name for that.
How do you see that playing out in the medium to long term? Google have made it very clear that they're done with the "open" side to Pixel, and they have comparatively unlimited resource to throw at the issue.
GrapheneOS team have published that they're working with a smartphone manufacturer that is working on releasing a phone that matches their security requirements.
Still, GOS team have confirmed they are able to unlock bootloader, flash custom keys and relock it on the new Pixel 10, so?medium term seems to be safe.
They previously ported Android 16 within 2 weeks on all the supported devices despite obstacles.
That just means that the Pixel 10 meets their security requirements. Porting this time around will require a significant amount more work (if it's even possible), due to various changes in the way Google publishes updates to ASOP.
Honestly, I rate "open" less and less as time goes on. It's a fine principle, but there are other valuable principles (like minimal advertising and tracking, and quality of finish and performance).
I think that the ethics and ill-effects of Meta, Google and the like are significantly worse than locked software ecosystems. Once you've decided that, then you don't want a smartphone at all.
If I had to get a smartphone, I would get an Apple.
Given how many people go to all this hassle for "openness" in their mobile software ecosystem and then install Whatsapp/Gmail/Instagram etc - what is the point?