Use Caution When Buying a Phone from Google

If your new phone from Google is faulty out of the box do not ask for a replacement. Ask for an RMA instead.

Yesterday my fine new Pixel 3 XL arrived with a non-working fingerprint sensor. After we went through the usual diagnostics the excellent Google support person said she would arrange replacement. My reply was "Thanks! Let's make sure it's another brand new phone and not a refurb." Her reply was "All replacements are refurbs."

Though not an unfamiliar practice, replacing a brand new phone bad out of the box with a refurb seems like bad policy to me.

Since it was within the fifteen day window for return for full credit, my former new phone and the RMA notice are on the way back and another new Pixel 3 XL is on order.

My wife's Pixel 3 also arrived yesterday. No problems and a WOW camera. I am, so far, managing to keep my hands (mostly) off her phone. Mine is only about a week out and may even be fully functional.

Hope you get your new phone soon. Agree Pixel 3 camera rules.

Mine is the earlier model: Pixel 2 XL that developed some issues after a while, a green line across the screen, got a replacement straight away and haven't had any issues ever since. And yes, it was refurbished and the camera rules, too.

The replacement Pixel 3 XL arrived and it's great.

The task now will be learning to use it well. Years of SLR and DSLR experience help with the head stuff but getting gaining skill with using the form will take at least a few more days. Or weeks. Worth it, I think, for always having a decent camera handy.