I am thinking of trying a new OS on my Pixel 8 pro, and I’m wondering if switching will require me to inform or update my cell service provider, Verizon, in any way to stay connected. When I just moved my SIM card from one device to another, I learned that it activates an anti theft feature after a couple of days of working normally. This was easily fixed with Verizon support, but it was a hassle since I’m still on my parents’ phone plan. Am I likely to have this or a similar issue after installing a new OS, or should my cell service and data continue to work?
Your IMEI shouldn’t change when you install a different OS (if it does, you’ve probably accidentally committed a crime).
There are ways for your carrier to notice the difference, but I don’t think they’ll monitor your phone that closely. Pattern analysis and packet inspection is hard, IMEI+SIM card matching is quite easy for a carrier.