As a supported device with an "official" release I get mostly weekly updates. With some the device gets boggy, but over time it just keeps getting better.
I've been battling with a Sony with an "unofficial" release. I really do prefer the Sony hardware quality over the Nexus, but it takes some serious masochism and rodent mazing to put a custom ROM on Sony.
However, be aware that their focus has mostly been on security and not so much on privacy.
What this means is they worry a lot about hackers breaking into your phone but they don't worry much about daddy Google tracking you all over the internet and into the real world.
Also, not sure why this is news now since the last update was in April.
I think the bigger weakness on the security front is the blobby nature of the kernel and firmware for the properietary parts of the SoC. It's certainly better than running out-of-date official Android releases though.
I am testing the IPhone 13 now. It is quite a jump in UX, hardware capability (5G, camera, storage space not so much). Also, your flashlight app does not spy on you.
The Note 3 was truly a masterpiece when it came into the market. Also, the the exchangeable battery was very practical. And 8+ years in use: what a economical and ecological device.
If I find some time, I will have a look at lineageOS. Any hints?
To activate Google Fi service on a phone, I need Google Fi app which drags in at least open gapps but I don't know if that's adequate without jumping to the full Google Play Services.
