Google has taken the wraps off the much-awaited Pixel and Pixel XL, the OEM's first smartphones to carry the "Made by Google" trademark.
The devices were built by HTC, but Google claims that every step from design to final finishes was its own call, so let's see what sets apart the first 100 percent Google smartphones.
Design
Mobile fans will notice that the Pixels look very different from the 2015 Nexus 6P and Nexus 5X.
The two new gadgets rely on a combo of aluminum and glass, which puts them rather close to the looks of last year's HTC A9.
The Pixels feature large bezels on the front, which could indicate stereo speakers, and chamfered edges are safe design options. The glass and metal back could divide fans' opinions, but it is a novel aspect for Google to test out.
Display
One of the big differences between the Pixel and Pixel XL is the screen size.
The XL sports a 5.5-inch AMOLED screen that is rumored to render 2,560 x 1,440 pixel resolutions. The standard Pixel carries a 5-inch screen, offering 1080p resolution.
Technical Specs
Rumors that the Pixel phones will be the first smartphones to rock the new and improved Snapdragon 821 SoC are now confirmed. What is more, their processing power is backed by 4 GB RAM. The faster CPU will enable the phones to be Daydream VR-friendly.
On the down side, no microSD exists on either device. However, keep in mind that for those who find 32 GB to be meager, there are 128 GB Pixel and Pixel XL variants.
Software
Both Pixel models have the Android Nougat pre-installed, on top of which sits a skin dubbed Pixel Launcher.
All the improvements of Nougat will be found in the new devices, such as split-screen productivity tool or the battery saving Doze mode.
The two phones will play nice with Google's new Daydream View VR headset.
Google Assistant is there to aid users, who can tap into voice recognition for texting, making dinner reservations and ticket booking for concerts and shows.
Camera And Battery
The Pixel and Pixel XL are sporting a rear sensor of 12.3-megapixel, with an aperture of f/2.0 and large 1.55-micron pixels, providing good premises for dark environment shots.
The bigger Google phone holsters a massive 3,450 mAh power source, while the Pixel comes with a 2,770 mAh battery. Charging will come through a USB-C, and it should be mentioned that wireless charging is not in the books.
Pricing and Availability
The 32 GB Pixel is up for preorder for $649 in U.S., U.K., Canada, Germany and Australia. The 128 GB costs $749, while the Pixel XL asks clients to shell out $769 for the 32 GB variant and $868 for the 128 GB one.
The devices will be officially up for grabs on October 20.
Conclusion
Seeing how the big differences between the Pixel XL and the Pixel are the screen size, resolution, and price, picking the right one for you boils down to the budget and hands size.
