As long as it is based on AOSP, it is at the mercy of Google to release source code and updates. Given recent trends, I wouldn't be surprised if Google stops shipping Android source completely.
You are right! I will change the title :)
how will it help you to break free from apple if it only supports pixel phones?
One reason that people use Apple phones is they are seen as a less privacy-invasive option than Android/Google.
So it would follow that a valid privacy-respecting third option would potentially help Apple customers as well as Google customers.
They are working on making their own phone hardware.
...on a google phone.
They are working with a partner to provide their own hardware.