Google's Pixel Software No Longer 'Stock Android'

When it comes to Android phones, the term 'stock Android' has become somewhat of a misnomer. Sanuj Bhatia of Android Police explains that buying a Google phone no longer guarantees the 'stock Android' experience.

In fact, Google's Pixel software has evolved far beyond basic Android, with its own interpretation of Android called Pixel UI. This includes Material You theming, animations, and other features that make a Pixel feel like a Pixel.

The actual 'stock Android' is much more bare-bones than what you get on a Pixel. And Bhatia thinks this is where the confusion comes from: people who say they prefer stock Android often mean they prefer Google's interpretation of Android, not the AOSP base layer.