Google officially announced their new Pixel smartphone lineup to replace the Nexus live at the #MadeByGoogle event. The Google Pixel brings in several important changes from the Nexus series including several exclusive new features. If you missed the #MadeByGoogle event, here’s a recap of Google Pixel’s new specs and features!
Specs
The Google Pixel is constructed out of aluminum with a large glass panel on the back which surrounds the camera, flash, and Pixel Imprint fingerprint sensor. The Google Pixel will feature a 5-inch AMOLED 1080p display, and the Pixel XL will offer a larger 5.5-inch Quad HD panel. Both versions of the Google Pixel are built by HTC, and are powered by the latest Snapdragon 821 processor, 4GB of RAM, USB-C, Bluetooth 4.2, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and the option of either 32GB or 128GB of storage.
The Google Pixel is optimized for running a specialized version of Google's Android software, and offers full support for the new Daydream View VR headset. In addition, Google added quick charging that allows users to get over 7 hours of power after only 15 minutes of charging time with the Pixel XL boasting a whopping 3,450mAh battery.
Pixel Launcher
Upon unlocking your new Pixel or Pixel XL device, you will note a new home screen design entitled the “Pixel Launcher”. Rather than utilizing an app drawer button, users will be able to swipe up from the bottom to view the full list of apps and games installed. On the top right corner, you will find the date, time, and weather. If you tap Google’s G logo, you will swiftly access the search feature.
Reliable Backups and Unlimited Storage
To protect your photos and 4K videos, users will have access to free-of-charge backups with Google's cloud service. In addition, the new Pixel line comes with a serious storage offering. Buyers can choose between 32GB or 128GB of storage, although no microSD card support will be offered.
Nevertheless, owners of the Google Pixel will have their data stored to the cloud in its original quality. Finally, the Pixel’s USB-C adapter lets users transfer their current phone’s contents (both Android and iPhone), over to the Pixel.
Google Assistant
Along the lines of Siri and Alexa, the new Google Assistant feature improves upon the Google Now voice feature. It does this by being more contextually aware of your device’s activity, and has the ability to tap into third-party apps. Google Pixel will be the first phone in the world to include the Google Assistant feature.
Improved Camera
The Pixel's rear 12.3MP camera scored the highest rating ever with its 89 DxOMark, and is cited as the best smartphone camera to date. Google Pixel's camera includes an f/2.0 aperture, gyroscope-based video stabilization, white balance control, exposure compensation, Lens Blur, and a “Smart Burst” mode which captures a stream of shots and selects the best shot. The Pixel’s camera uses HDR+ with “zero shutter lag” on default, offering up an impressive dynamic range per shot.
Support Network
If you experience any difficulties or simply have a question, Google is offering 24/7 voice and chat support. To access this, simply head to the settings menu to launch a call or chat session with the Google customer support team. Buyers will also be given the ability to screen share, enabling the support team to control your device to better instruct you on remedying any issue.
The Google Pixel starts at a $649 price point for the 5-inch, 32GB Pixel, and is available for preorder as of right now. The cost increases to $749 with the option of 128GB of storage, and can run upwards of $769 for the Pixel XL with 32Gb of storage, and $869 for the Pixel XL with 128GB of storage. Color options include black and silver, with an exclusive blue option for US Verizon users, though the blue option is limited to 32GB of storage. The Google Pixel and Pixel XL will hit store shelves on October 20th.
For more news here at Indie Obscura, be sure to check out our coverage of the new Google Daydream View VR headset, the upcoming boxed release of Yooka-Laylee, and some of the changes you can expect in Sid Meier's Civilization 6.
