I'm not opposed to a flat Pixel 2 either. This is a trend that I don't think Google needs to follow per se -- they can let Samsung have that corner of the industry.
As I said before, flat or curved, Google has plenty they need to focus on anyway, like overall better design, less bezels, better ergonomics, and adding waterproofing and wireless charging.
A big reason I want to get the S8 unlocked is in anticipation for the Pixel 2. The first Pixel was a valiant first effort, but the Pixel 2 is where Google can really make a difference. Still some time away, so we'll see. The potential is there. A Pixel 2 winning formula is actually fairly simple to achieve:
-Samsung-level hardware and design (this doesn't necessarily mean curved screens).
-Continue to beef up stock Android. It should have the useful features of TW combined with the clean and speediness of the Pixel. And for goodness sake, sound profiles, please. I shouldn't have to change the volume slightly to change my sound profile. *See my complaints below when I had the Pixel for a month.
-Continue the Apple-like security support and software updates.
Boom.
*no sound profiles complaints:
Why is it so hard to change this phone to vibrate only? Where is the simple toggle for sound/vibration? Like the one in Touchwiz. Do not disturb doesn't seem to have a "set to vibrate only" option, does it?
Some things about Google's decisions are seriously questionable. And if there's no solution other than, press the volume down hardware key, and if it's not on the correct sound profile while you're doing that, you have to pull down the menu to get to the sliders, if that's the only way, it's downright idiotic.
I have to say again how silly it is for Google to not have a dedicated sound/vibrate profile option in their pull down quick setting menu.
If I'm playing music or video via speaker or headphones, I can't change the sound/vibration setting without hitting the volume rockers, then pulling down the full sound sliders, then adjusting the alert slider to ring/vibrate.
That is just stupid. It means I have to change the volume a bit of what I'm playing just to get the option started.
Who at Google thought this was a good idea?