I just helped someone set up a new Galaxy S22. And yes, I could do it without having a Google account. Unlike Windows 11, it actually lets you do this after a few nag prompts. Although I cannot install apps through the Google or Samsung stores without an account, I can manually install them by turning off a security feature.
I also just helped set up a new iPad. And yes, I was also able to do so without having an Apple account.
So far, the only way I have found that you can install Windows 11 without requiring a Microsoft account is to disconnect the internet after the first restart. Otherwise, you don't even get a nag prompt like Google and Apple do.
Biting the hand that feeds IT
