Google's new Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones are now finally
official.
Google’s new Pixel phones are here. After years of overseeing
reference Nexus devices running stock Android, Google is finally stepping into
the smartphone fray to show what its vision of Android looks like. The Pixel
and Pixel XL feature deep software integration to Google’s services, including
Google Assistant, Daydream, and Google Photos. Unlike most current Android
phones, it actually ships with the latest Android Nougat operating system and
will continue to receive the latest OS and security updates.
The performance gap between smartphones
is thinner than ever, and unique features have become more and more important than pure
specifications as key differentiated between devices. When every major phone
takes great photos, works fast, and runs the apps you use, it’s become tougher than ever to judge
phones based on raw specifications alone. It’s too early to
tell if Google's control over both hardware and software will lead to a
superior smartphone.
Differentiated primarily
by the size and resolution of their screens — 5-inch 1080p display on the Pixel
and 5.5-inch Quad HD panel on the XL — these two devices are built by HTC, but
Google takes full credit for their design and makes this explicit with its
"phone by Google" branding. Both Pixel models are powered by the
latest Snapdragon 821 processor and run a specialized version of Google's
Android software, which includes support for the Daydream virtual reality platform that was announced at Google I/O in the summer.
Today's mobile market is an extremely competitive one, with
stellar phones from Apple, Samsung, LG, and more all competing for the coveted
spot in your pocket or bag. To help you make that decision, at least if you
still think specs tell the story, here's how today's best phones compare to the
Pixel and Pixel XL.
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