This is what came to me when I started reading your post. I went from 13 mini to 6A. Sold the mini recently which I kind of regret but well.
17 seems like a reasonable option of the lot, for the uses and locking down you detailed. Long term support and all the latest chips have to offer. Cons still stand but you have to draw a compromise. Pixel 8 as a second option, for the price and fairly long term support past GOS support window.
Fold really doesn’t seem like the reasonable option here. Folding design. Used one is still pricey as far as I know. Durability is yet to be proven I’d say given the design and care required.
The Pixel 7 ends support in October 2027, where I originally plan to upgrade the phone
This is kind of what my rationale was to pause for a bit and observe. I eyed 15 pro but I feel it is still way too expensive and even considered getting a used 16E. My way to deal with size of my current device is to use it less, which has been a blessing in disguise. I honestly wouldn’t be able to type this all if I did it on a phone. I understand it is not a practical solution for all. I admit the times when I pick it up for something urgent, I have a hard time handling the phone and I feel it’s even harder since becoming a parent.
At the end of the day if you think a Pixel 8, iPhone 17 or hell, even Samsung improves your qualify of life as a result of switching to something compact, go for it. One less thing to divert your mind, energy and time off. I don’t anticipate Apple releasing a 17E anytime soon, if their track record of releasing something like their SE is anything to go by. It would be great if they release it around the time your Pixel 7 runs out of updates and I’m hoping that it will be a sub 6.3” phone, I really do.
I totally see where you are coming from and I briefly considered getting a Pixel 8 few months ago. Size has been a pain point of mobile devices for me. I’m using a Pixel 6A and sometimes it can be real pain to handle it one-handed. I only considered getting the Pixel 8 because like you, I prioritized compactness and kind of still do. The current device just seems to be working fine and I love GOS but I feel reluctant to change the device and shell out more $$ now. 17 and even 15 pro were in the radar but I thought it was best to wait until something good comes along and consider the options when the current device is unusable.
It is unfortunate the vast majority lean towards 6.3”+ phones and Manufacturers are simply catering to the demand.