After the release of the new Google Pixel 2 and the announcement of its prices, it's time to remember the companies whose interface changes are not much different from the stock Android. After all, their smartphones may well become inexpensive analogs of the same Pixel.
HTC
The company HTC has been known for their Sense shell for over five years. Recently, however, I see that some of the elements are gradually being replaced by analogs from Google. For example, in HTC they have already abandoned their gallery in favor of the 'Photos' application, the notification curtain looks the same as on the stock one Android, the built-in launcher supports calling additional actions with a long press.
Sony
Sony has also used its own analogs of built-in applications for a long time, but now I see the abandonment of my dialer, SMS-client, my keyboard and general adaptation for stock Android (the same notification curtain, switching to Google Chrome, etc.). e).
Lenovo & Moto
Lenovo had its own separate skin, but after switching to the Moto brand, the company ditched it in favor of the stock Android with additional Moto chips. But the company has tried to adapt some built-in applications for the convenience of users. In particular, Russian letters appeared in the built-in dialer. The abandonment of its shell allowed Lenovo to focus on the prompt release of firmware, so fresh Moto works on Android 7.1, and in the near future they will also receive Android 8.0 Oreo.
Nokia
The new owners of the Nokia brand did not bother with their shell and just rolled stock Android on all their models. This made it possible not to spend money on software development, and the end users are only happy with this.
Nexus & Pixel
But the pioneer in promoting stock Android is, of course, Google with its Nexus and Pixel lines. They are universal favorites among geeks who are ready to forgive them some shortcomings for the sake of the opportunity to get the latest version Android among the first.
Xiaomi
I now have Xiaomi Mi A1 in my hands, which is part of the project Android One, and I cannot help but note that this device is a good option for those who are looking for an inexpensive smartphone with two cameras and stock Android. Interestingly, from MIUI it contains only a camera application and a program that simulates a remote control.
Conclusion
The gradual refusal of manufacturers from their shells in the direction of Google solutions only makes me happy, this will allow companies to more quickly release fresh firmware updates, and also give users some kind of continuity.
True, it is clear that very few are ready to completely turn their smartphones into 'googlephones': almost all the companies I have described, in one way or another, try to add individuality to their devices with the help of certain applications.