Comment by j-james
4 years ago
An Android device running non-stock is a realistically better scenario. The big problem there is that the state of Android drivers means your hardware options are severely cut down (in practice, to a selection about the size of Apple's - the Pixel line and some assorted others).
do you still get patches via google play services?
With non-stock (assuming not jailbroken but just a totally different operating system) I think (I might be wrong... I should know for sure but I awkwardly don't) you aren't even allowed to use Google Play Services at all?
You are allowed to use Google services. There is even an alternative called microG which is compatible with apps requiring Google serivices but it sends "fake" data to Google.
back in the day it was not allowed, and then they allowed it somewhat begrudgingly. this was like 10y ago though.
no idea what the situation is now, but i wouldn't consider a phone that doesn't get those patches (project mainline) on time to be a serious option.