I have a budget of $800 for a phone without tax.
I have a oneplus 6t right now.
I want a snapdragon processor.
Minimal OS changes. I hate added software I will never use.
I could care less about Ai.
A long OS upgrade would be nice. I keep a phone for 5-6 years. So 4 or more OS...
It does make me sad. Because it would save me time not having to order and build it from scratch. But if I am going to have problems it is not worth it.
Your story is pretty much my path too. The Infinite Universe is my favorite. I really like the theme song too. It was the 1st Japanese song I ever learned. I have seen every Yamato series and movie in Japanese. Even the ridiculous Dai Yamato zero go and 2520.