Most of what the article describes in terms of user experience is that of stock Android, not just the Pixel 2 - For those interested in a clean Android but who don't want the Pixel I can recommend the Android One line, those are devices by other manufacturers that basically have the same stock Android as the Pixel devices, with similar quick updates etc.

I just exchanged an older Samsung Galaxy S-line phone with a new Nokia with Android One, and it's the best Android experience I ever had.