Here’s everything we are expecting from the Pixel and Pixel XL so far
It’s becoming apparent that we are getting closer to the release of the rumored Google Pixel and Google Pixel XL devices. Usually, when we get closer to an announcement, there are plenty of rumors and leaks that spring out of the water works, and Google can’t seem to patch the holes.
We’ve already seen the renamed Pixel Launcher that replaced the former Nexus Launcher, and we have also seen the Pixel’s specs leaked courtesy of a Geekbench results page. Now, we have our first look at what may be the front display panels for both the Pixel and Pixel XL.
Measuring in at 4.99-inches and 5.46-inches, respectively, this may give us a better idea as to the size of the devices, rather than the overall design. Since these are just front panels, it’s possible these were old prototype’s that have since been scratched or these may be the real deal. It’s just not really able to tell at this point in time.
But if they do turn out to be real, this may conflict with the cases that are now up for sale on AliExpress. These cases appeared yesterday and if they are legitimate, show that both devices will feature the fingerprint scanners on the rear of the device, and will not remove the 3.5mm headphone jack that everyone is up in arms about right now. The cases do show that the Pixel will measure in at 5.2-inches, with the Pixel XL measuring in at 5.5-inches.
Finally, we find some legitimacy in regards to the Pixel devices. There are 4 entries in the Global Certification Forum database which show that HTC will indeed be the manufacturer. The reason for 4 entries versus just 2 is that there will reportedly be a North American variant and an International variant for each device. We already knew that HTC would be the manufacturer, but this pretty much all but verifies that knowledge.
To recap, here are the expected specs of the Pixel and Pixel XL based on the rumors and leaks that we’ve seen over the last few months:
| Google Pixel | Google Pixel XL | |
| Display | 5-inch FHD (1920×1080) | 5.5-inch QHD (2560×1440) |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 |
| RAM | 4GB | 4GB |
| Storage | 32GB/128GB | 32GB/128GB |
| Camera | 8MP (front) / 13MP (rear) | 8MP (front) / 13MP (rear) |
| Battery | 2,770mAh | 3,450mAh |
| Software | Android 7.1 Nougat | Android 7.1 Nougat |
In addition to being the first devices to run Android 7.1 Nougat, we are expecting to see a redesigned navigation bar layout, with the buttons filled in. The home button may end up being a solid circle, which is a move away from the “flower” design that we saw floating around in the past. Additionally, the icons on the home screen will now be round, to follow along with Google’s own Material Design guidelines.
As for the build itself, both devices will look similar to the HTC 10, but won’t feature any HTC branding. Instead, there’s a possibility that Google will opt for its “G” symbol on the rear of the devices. Both the Pixel and Pixel XL will feature an aluminum build, with a glass or glossy plastic overlay which is where the various antennas will be housed. The front of the Pixel and Pixel XL will feature nothing other than the earpiece at the top, with its speakers being built into the earpiece.
Trying to condense all of these rumors is a bit of a pain, but we are so close to the official unveiling that we can smell it and are getting more excited by the day. Speaking of, earlier rumors suggested that Google will be holding an event on October 4th where the new Pixel devices will be unveiled alongside the Google Home, Google’s Daydream Viewer, and a new 4K-enabled Chromecast.
What do you think about all of this? Are you getting impatient as we near the supposed release of these devices? Are you holding out for the release of the Pixel or Pixel XL? Let us know in the comments below.