The second half of the article goes into that a bit. Seems like some reviewers were also grouped into that program before, and the terms weren't like this before.

The Verge spoke with other independent reviewers and freelance tech journalists who say that they were grouped into the Team Pixel program for review units in the past. For those in the latter group, the new stipulation is a threat to their integrity and livelihood. Matlock says he’s since quit the Team Pixel program over the new terms.

YouTuber Kevin Nether, who runs The Tech Ninja channel, also says the clause led him to quit the Team Pixel program. “As someone who reviews technology for a living, I work with many brands. To be cornered into using one product — that doesn’t work for me, and that’s nothing I want to participate in.”

Nether echoes that he’s never seen this kind of stipulation in previous Team Pixel surveys. Usually, he says, the survey gauges a creator’s interest in various topics, like sports or fashion, to identify areas for collaboration. In the past, he says he’s made it clear to Team Pixel representatives that outside an obligatory post, he will review the device as normal. Nether also says this exclusivity term is atypical. Usually, when brands demand exclusivity from creators or brand ambassadors, they’ll offer payment, have clear disclosure rules, and have limited timelines.

Either Google changed the focus of the program, or the intent wasn't clear enough in previous years

Click bait title for sure.

Same. I don't care about the camera or AI features, the speakers could be louder, and a few other nitpicks, but it supports GrapheneOS, has a long SW support cycle, and has some great security hardware, so I bought one. I actually kind of prefer my older, crappy Moto phone in some ways, but I'm unwilling to use an insecure device, and ROMs aren't supported (well, I guess I could sign an abusive agreement).

So yeah, Pixel wins for me because of GOS and longer SW support. That's honestly it.

Could give the fairphone a try

GOS is still not for everyone.

edit: less offensive.

I'll always be distrustful of Google hardware, but yes. I've been considering a Pixel as my next.

Also these days it's all about rushing content and pandering to the lowest common denominator. Though pop tech channels were always this way. I stumbled on Unbox Therapy lately and it's so blatant that it almost feels illegal.

I have the 8 and I find it so frustrating. It makes the phone uncomfortable to hold and pocket

If you use a case like most people do it makes sense.

Currently using a FP4 with success. Using Ting/T-Mobile for service.