The aftermarket Android community has been pretty active recently, making Android 12 ports for various new and old devices. The devs have also released custom Android 12 Generic System Image (GSI) packages to facilitate any Project Treble-supported device to boot the latest version of Android. Owing to Project Treble, the four-year-old Google Pixel 2 received its first unofficial Android 12 based custom ROM, the ProtonAOSP.

For those unfamiliar with the custom Android community, ProtonAOSP project is a custom ROM created by Danny Lin also known on the XDA forums as kdrag0n. This time however the XDA members Lunarixus, RealOkabe, RallySnow, and Dollscythe take the credit for bringing a functional build of the Android 12 based ProtonAOSP to Google Pixel 2 XL (via XDA). As of now, a separate build for the regular Pixel 2 is in the works and should be available soon.

Primary functions such as the cellular radio interface layer (RIL), camera, GPS, Bluetooth, and fingerprint reader are working well in this version. With regard to bugs and things now working, encryption isn’t functional yet, and the SELinux is set to permissive mode, which raises serious security concerns. Despite that, the devs have still achieved an impressive feat, as it can be a real hassle trying to get a ROM fully functional without radio or camera issues.

To flash this ROM, ProtonAOSP has provided a factory image that enables you to directly flash the OS via Fastboot. But be careful and back your data up before flashing, as you might need to re-partition and eventually wipe the internal storage of your Pixel device. As it is an unofficial ROM, it is strongly advised to be careful about your sensitive information.

RELATED

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• Google Pixel 6’s fingerprint reader may break if the phone runs out of battery: Report
• Redmi Note 10 Pro (Max) get Unofficial LineageOS 18.1 Custom ROM

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In 2017, Google announced the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL which were made by HTC and LG respectively. However, Google’s plan was to have HTC make the Pixel 2 XL but it canceled it and went with LG instead. There were reports that the HTC U11+ was the canceled Pixel 2 XL but a hands-on video of the HTC-made Pixel 2 XL which was codenamed ‘muskie’ has now appeared on the internet and it looks nothing like the HTC U11+.

The video was posted on the web by the YouTube channel, Calyx Hikari, and it gives us a good look at the phone. As you can see, the phone has pretty huge bezels that are not only thicker than those of the HTC U11+ but also thicker than those of the Pixel 2 XL. HTC’s phone would have gone well with the Pixel 2 as that too had thick bezels and a 16:9 display.

On the back, ”muskie” is shown to have a similar design to that of the Pixel 2 XL – a two-tone finish and a single camera that is on the left side of the phone. It also has a fingerprint scanner just below the upper part of the glass.

The video shows the device is operated with a wireless mouse as it doesn’t respond to touch input. We get to see the ”About Section” of the phone and it confirms the phone is ”muskie”. It is also shown to be running Android Oreo with May 2017’s security patch.

Google probably decided to go with an 18:9 display instead of the 16:9 display of HTC’s phone which is why this phone never got released. It was a wise decision as quite a number of manufacturers had ditched the traditional 16:9 aspect ratio for the trendy 18:9 aspect ratio.

RELATED:

• This might be the design of the upcoming Google Pixel Foldable Smartphone
• Google Pixel 4a 5G in White color to launch in the US on January 28
• Google Pixel 4a 5G users complain about navigation and touch issues

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Yesterday, Google started rolling out December 2020 security patch update to eligible Pixels. This update also brought a new set of Pixel Feature Drops. At the same time, the search giant also released the last-ever system update for Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL, thus ending the software support for these smartphones.

Most smartphones in the world run Google’s Android operating system, however, the search giant’s phone business never took off. The company introduced the Pixel lineup of first-party smartphones as the spiritual successor to the Nexus initiative in 2016.

That said, the current-gen Pixel 5 has a couple of most-used features like ‘Now Playing’ and ‘Always-on Display’, both of which were introduced with the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL. That’s not all, the Pixel 2 series of handsets were also the first Google devices to feature called ‘Active Edge’, a feature the company has abandoned for the Pixel 5.

Anyway, what we are trying to say is that despite being plagued with various hardware issues, the Pixel 2 and the Pixel 2 XL laid the foundation for many loved Pixel features.

Having said that, as promised, Google has supported these handsets for three years, which included three Android updates and three years of monthly security patches. The last update that is currently being pushed to users bumps up the security patch level to November 2020. One might be wondering why November and not December. That’s because Google delayed these phones’ last-ever system update to this month.

We hope that one day Google increases the support cycle from three years as Apple iPhones on average are eligible for five years of iOS updates.

UP NEXT: Google patents a Smart Ring with an integrated selfie camera module

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Google has released the first beta edition of the Android Q for all the Pixel phones that have launched so far such as Pixel 3 XL, Pixel 3, Pixel 2 XL, Pixel 2, Pixel XL and Pixel. The beta build can be installed on the Pixel devices by enrolling in the Android Beta Program first.

Previously, the first preview build of predecessor Android versions were installable only through manual processor since it was aimed towards developers. However, the Android Q first preview can be received over-the-air. The Android Q Beta 1 is aimed towards the developers for testing their apps for the new version of Android. Coming to the Pixel phones, the original Pixel smartphones have already received the promised 2-year Android OS updates. Hence, it is surprising the arrival of Android Q for Snapdragon 821 powered Pixel and Pixel XL phones from 2016.

In May, Google will be holding its I/O 2019 conference to announce the key features of the Android Q. The successor of Android P comes with a new permission management setup for tracking location that provides users three options for apps to access device’s location all the time or allow it while the app is in use or deny.

Controlling apps that access photos, videos and audio files have become easier to manage on Android Q. Also, apps are required to use the system file picker inside the Downloads folder so that users can choose which files can be access by the app. The new version of Android prevents apps for opening activities in the background. Just as Android 9 Pie came with different kinds of display notch designs, the Android Q has been designed to better manage the contents on devices with foldable screens.

Also, the access to sensitive information such as IMEI number and serial number will be restricted on Android Q. The Wi-Fi stack in the new OS comes has been rebuilt to deliver enhanced privacy and performance. There will be a high-performance mode with low latency so that users can take advantage of stutter-free Wi-Fi connectivity while playing games, video and voice calls.

Other features of Android Q include new codecs such as AV1, Opus encoding and HDR10+ on supported devices, revamped Sharing Shortcuts, improved ART runtime and Dynamic Depth open source format that allow third-party apps to apply specialized burs and bokeh options.

• Read More: Google’s latest teaser points to March 19 Gaming console launch

Google will be releasing six beta editions of Android Q. The first one will come in March and the second one will be arriving in April. The third build will be released in May and the fourth will be rolled out in June. These four builds are mainly meant for testing while the Beta 5 and Beta 6 are release candidates. The final edition of the Android Q OS is scheduled to arrive within Q3 this year.

(source)

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Google is all set to launch its next flagship smartphones — Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL on 9th October. Now, ahead of the launch of next-generation Pixel-series smartphones, the Pixel 2 XL has received a massive price cut in India.

With the new price drop, the Google Pixel 2 XL which was launched for Rs. 73,000 (approximately $1,005) in November last year, has now been reduced to just Rs. 45,499 (approximately $627), translating into a massive price drop of 40 percent. It is available for purchase online exclusively via Flipkart as well as offline retail stores across the nation.

The high-end variant, which comes with 128GB internal storage, still bears the price tag of Rs. 82,000 and has not yet received a price cut. However, we expect that this model too will soon receive a price cut, ahead of Pixel 3-series launch. We are also expecting a price cut for the Pixel 2 models soon.

To remind you of the specifications, the Pixel 2 XL features a 6-inch QHD+ P-OLED display having 2880 x 1440 pixels screen resolution and 18:9 aspect ratio. It is powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor, paired with 4GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 64GB/128GB of onboard storage.

Read More: Google Pixel 3, Pixel 3 XL rumors: New high-resolution renders shared by reputable tipster

The phone flaunts a a single rear camera with a 12.2-megapixel sensor, having f/1.8 aperture and OIS/EIS. On the front side, there’s an 8-megapixel selfie camera with an f/2.4 aperture. Running on Android Oreo operating system out-of-the-box, the phone is backed by a 3,520mAh battery.

(Source)

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In March, Google had released the first developer preview of Android 9.0 P. Through the Google I/O 2018 event that began yesterday, Google confirmed the arrival of beta edition of Android P for smartphones from various brands like OnePlus, Xiaomi, OPPO, Vivo, Nokia (HMD Global, Essential and Sony.

In the previous years, Google used to release the beta builds of new Android version first to its Pixel/Nexus devices. However, starting with this year, the latest Android P beta build will be not only available for the existing Pixel phones, but also for devices from popular smartphone OEMs. Well, all these phones are Project Treble compatible devices because of which they are entitled to receive the Android P beta along with the Pixel phones.

Here is the list of smartphones for which the Android P beta is now available for download:

• Google Pixel
• Google Pixel XL
• Google Pixel 2
• Google Pixel 2 XL
• OnePlus 6
• Xiaomi Mi MIX 2S
• OPPO R15 Pro
• Vivo X21
• Vivo X21 UD
• Essential Phone
• Sony Xperia XZ2

In order to download the Android P beta, owners of the above phones are required to enroll in the respective beta program first. This can be done by visiting the following link. Yes, the above list contains the unreleased OnePlus 6. More details on Android P for OP6 is expected to surface on its launch date.

Android P is packed with plenty of new features such as Adaptive Battery that prioritizes battery consumption for frequently used apps and services; Adaptive Brightness that can remember the manually set brightness setting for specific lighting environment; Digital wellbeing features that shows how the device is being used by the user by providing a Dashboard to see the time spent in apps, unlocking of phone, checking notifications and so on. Some of the other features of the Android 9.0 P include manual screen rotation, gesture-based navigation, predicted actions and more.

As of this writing, there is no information on the release date of the final build of Android P. Also, the official name of Android 9.0 is yet to be disclosed. Like last year, the Android P may debut in August this year.

The post Android P Beta Now Available for OnePlus 6, Xiaomi Mi MIX 2S, OPPO R15 Pro, Vivo X2, X21 UD, Nokia 7 Plus and More appeared first on Gizmochina.

Yesterday, Google rolled out the first developer preview of Android P (Android 9.0). The new version of Android OS does not support Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P and Pixel C that were launched in 2015. The Android P has also dropped support for the obsolete Nexus Player.

The Nexus Player was introduced as a competitor for Apple TV in 2014. It was launched with Android 5.0 Lollipop and was treated with Android 8.0 Oreo update in September last year. However, it was confirmed in the very next month that device will not be receiving the Android 8.1 Oreo upgrade. Also, it won’t be getting the upcoming Android 9.0 OS.

The Nexus 5X and 6P that had arrived in the market in 2015 with Android 6.0 Marshmallow have received the latest Android 8.1 Oreo update. However, these phones won’t be upgraded to Android P. The well-received Pixel C tablet was provided with Android 8.1 Oreo in December 2017 as the last major OS update.

The support page of Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P state that these devices have “no guaranteed Android version updates after” September 2017. The reason why these devices will not be getting the Android P upgrade is that Google has a policy of providing major OS update to Android devices for a period of two years. The Nexus 5X and 6P users will continue to receive monthly security updates until November this year. The Android P will be arriving first to Google Pixel, Pixel XL, Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL.

Read More: Nokia 8 Sirocco, Nokia 7 Plus and Nokia 6 (2018) Are Now Included in the List of Android Enterprise Recommended Devices

The forthcoming Android P will bring along various new features and improvements. Devices running on Android P will prevent background apps from accessing camera or microphone without the consent of the user. Android 9.0 will also prevent secret call recordings and it will be also coming with powerful call-blocking feature to prevent spam calls. It will carry native support for iris scanning and HID Bluetooth. It will provide the power to mobile operators to modify the signal strength indicator. A new addition on Android P is the support for iPhone X-like notch. Google will be showcasing all the new features of the Android P at the Google I/O 2018 event in May. It is speculated that the final version of Android 9.0 will be released sometime in mid-August.

(source)

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If you are using Google’s flagship device — Pixel 2 or Pixel 2 XL and are facing issues with the phone’s temperature and battery life, then you are not alone. As per the latest report, many users have pointed out that their phones are having some issues since they installed Google‘s February security update.

This new issue came to light after users started reporting issues through Google’s Pixel User Community as well as on Reddit. The users have reported that the phone is running warm while in standby mode and the battery life has also noticeably reduced.

While some users are affected with any one of these issues, others are facing both issues. Most of the complaints points that the problems started occurring after installing this month’s security update. However, it is not yet known what might be causing these issues.

The folks at Android Police did some investigation and they observed that the Pixel 2 XL charges at less than 4W in low temperature conditions despite claiming to be charging quickly (10W+). In response to Android Police, Google said that they are investigating changes to the display message. While not yet clear, it could mean that you might not see ‘Charging rapidly’ written on Pixel 2 XL lock-screen after the forthcoming update.

Read More: Google Reportedly Working On Own Custom Chips, But Next Few Pixels May Use Qualcomm Processors

Earlier, the phone was reported to have random reboot issue, which was later confirmed by Google. The company came out and assured to offer fix for the same in couple of weeks through an over-the-air Android update. However, the company had not provided any information about what the cause of the problem.

(Sources – 1, 2)

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Recently, we reported about the random reboot issue being faced by the users of Google’s latest flagship devices, Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL. Now, Google has come out and said that the fix for the same should be rolled out in the coming weeks.

Google has assured that the random reboot issue will be fixed through an update that is expected to hit the devices in the coming weeks. However, the company has not provided any information about what is the cause of the problem and how it will be fixed. The issue is believed to have been caused by the LTE modem.

Also, there is no specific time-frame provided for the fix. The update, that is supposed to fix the issue, could either be bundled as part of a monthly security update or a future Android software release.

The issue was widely reported on Google Product Forum and Google’s Issue Tracker also highlighted the existence of the issue on a mas-level. While some users were facing the issue since the launch of the devices, many started facing it after installing the November security update.

While acknowledging the presence of random reboot issue, a Google spokesperson confirmed that the fix is currently in development, and further added that they “will be rolling out in the coming weeks.” The same message was reiterated by Google Community Manager Orrin Hancock on the company’s Product Forums.

Read More: Google Assistant Song Recognition Feature Rolling Out to Non-Google Devices

Apart from the fix for this random reboot problem, the company is also gearing up to release the public build of Android 8.1 operating system. The latest Android version is expected to hit the Pixel 2 family in December.

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Google’s flagship smartphones of this year — Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL have been a subject of criticism due to the issues faced by the users. Now, another issue related to the device has surfaced online and this time it is random reboots. However, it is not new since many users have been facing the issue since the phone’s launch.

Some users of the Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL have been noticing that their smartphone is randomly rebooting. Few of those users are facing the issue since the launch of the smartphone. However, the cause for the random reboots was not known until now. Apparently, the cause is tied to the phone’s LTE modem.

Nader Babbili, a user of the Google’s Pixel product forum has found out the culprit and claims that the LTE modem is the cause for such random reboots. He further adds that switching to 3G-only mode on the device actually solves the problem. In the forum, he wrote:

I KNOW WHY THIS IS HAPPENING!!!  It’s from being in a low signal area and LTE – for example when I’m at home on wifi it rarely happens, once I leave my wifi area (low signal area, LTE comes and goes)  reboots happen constantly . . .  So I went into Settings -> Network and Internet -> Mobile Network and change Preferred network type to only use 3G = NO MORE REBOOTS! Can someone else please confirm this? Obviously leaving LTE off is not feasible, but hopefully it points Google in the right direction for fixing this . . . . .

I’ve narrowed it down even more . . .  the area that it continuously reboots with LTE has a Wilson Cell Amplifier in the area, I got access to be able to unplug it temporarily . . . . and low and behold LTE is on, and no more reboots . . . . so the Amplifier is the culprit . . . . either the phone doesn’t know how to work with a boosted signal or the booster doesn’t know how to work with Pixel . . .

Some are pointing out the reason, suggesting that the modem is causing the kernel panic when the device is in LTE mode. However, it is not yet clear what triggers the panic.

Read More: Google’s Flagship Smartphone’s Charging Speed Doesn’t Surpass 10.5W With The 18W Charger

We just hope the issue is software related so that it can be fixed with a software update. It remains to be seen what Google has to say about this issue and when it offers a solution for the random reboots.

(Source)

The post Random Reboots On Google Pixel 2 And Pixel 2 XL Is Likely Due To LTE Modem appeared first on Gizmochina.

Since Google Pixel 2 XL users have encountered various problems on its display such as blue tint, poor color production and screen burn-in, early reviewers of the smartphone have claimed that its OLED screen is of mediocre quality. The newest problem that has surfaced on the Pixel 2 XL is that its screen flashes for a split second before it is unlocked.

The above video shows the flashing screen issue that Pixel 2 XL users are facing. The user who has uploaded the video on YouTube claims that issue stopped momentarily when the phone was restarted, but it surfaced again next morning. He says that the problem surfaced immediately after he purchased the phone.

Read More: Pixel 2 XL Charging Speed Doesn’t Surpass 10.5W With The 18W Charger

Advanced troubleshooting attempts such as starting the phone in Safe Mode or performing a factory reset could not resolve the issue permanently. Turning off the ambient sensor is the temporary fix for the flashing screen issue on Pixel 2 XL. Google is yet to release an official statement on the new issue.

Do you think that Pixel 2 XL’s OLED panel by LG is of dismal quality? Share us your views by commenting below.

(source|via)

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If you want to compare the specs of two phones (or more), sites like GSMArena is usually where most people go to. However, that might be changing soon. A new feature coming to Google search will now show a comparison when you search for two phones and it detects “vs” in the search query.

A few users have reported that when they searched for two devices with “vs” in the query, they got presented with a comparison table highlighting the specs of both phones. The example shown below is that of the Pixel 2 and the Pixel 2 XL.

The search result first shows a few rows which can then be expanded after selecting the blue drop-down button. There is even a “Highlight differences” button.

The search isn’t perfect as someone detected an error in the comparison table. A commenter (Nick Cipriani) posted a screenshot on the AndroidPolice article that shows that the Pixel 2 XL has a Micro-USB port instead of a USB-C port.

While sites like GSMArena have a disclaimer saying they cannot guarantee that the information is 100% correct, there is an option to contact them for corrections or provide missing information. For Google’s comparison search result, we guess we will have to wait for them to correct error(s) as there is no way to send them mistakes detected.

READ MORE: Lynky Is A Google Assistant Smart Home Hub With A Display

The feature is still unavailable to most people, so this is probably a gradual roll-out or a test.

(Source)

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In 2014, HTC had launched the One M8 smartphone with Duo Camera feature. The rear panel of the phone featured a dual camera setup that included a main UltraPixel camera of 4-megapixel along with a secondary depth sensor. It was the world’s first smartphone ever to feature a dual camera that could shoot depth information. The following flagship phones from the Taiwanese company have featured single cameras. After the launch of HTC U11+ phone in Taipei, Chialin Chang who is President of the company has confirmed that it will re-enter the dual camera smartphone market in the next year.

“We’ll definitely be releasing a dual-camera phone next year, but we’ll need to figure out how to make this feature stand out,” said Chang. The Taiwanese company has recently focused more on improving the camera experience on its new flagships. Hence, the HTC U11 that was launched in May this year managed to record an impressive score of 90 on mobile camera benchmarking platform, DxOMark. The newly unveiled HTC U11+ features an improved version of the same of U11 Plus camera.

Flagship phones from Huawei and Essential feature monochrome sensor as secondary camera lens. Samsung and Apple are using wide telephoto along with the primary camera.  LG is making use of a wide-angle lens to assist the main sensor. There is no information on the dual camera configuration that the Taiwanese company will adopt on its 2018 flagship phone. If company decides to use the same dual camera system that was made available on HTC One M8, the 2018 flagship phone from the company may feature secondary telephoto lens.

Chang has also confirmed that HTC will be releasing around five to six smartphones in 2018 like it did this year. Instead of just releasing high-end phones, the company also plans to take on the 2,000 Yuan smartphone market in China in 2018. He added the acquisition of HTC’s Pixel team by Google is in process and the deal may close in early 2018.

Fresh information suggests that HTC was supposed to make the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL smartphones. However, since the latter was cancelled by Google, the Taiwanese company redesigned its iteration of Pixel 2 XL to launch it as U11+. When Chang was asked whether the HTC U11+ is the cancelled Pixel 2 XL he replied by saying that he does not know how to answer the question. He said that because of the relationship between HTC and Google, he can’t comment on Google’s products.

Read More: HTC U11 Life Android One and Sense Versions are Official with Budget Pricing

He commented on the HTC U11+ by saying that, “we actually started planning it as such around end of last year, like the way we sourced its key components and whether they made sense, it was planned that way at the time. We are also very happy that our U11+ used these parts.”

After the HTC One Max from 2013, the U11+ is the first phone from the company to feature rear-facing fingerprint reader. This is another indication that the phone U11+ may have been original planned to debut as Pixel 2 XL. According to Chang, the positioning of the fingerprint reader on the rear panel seems more sensible on the U11+ as it features an elongated 18:9 display. He added that if HTC had really built the two similarly specced phones, it could have used the same rear positioning of the fingerprint scanner on both devices.

(source)

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Rumors of the Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL phones that had emerged at the beginning of this year had claimed that HTC would be manufacturing both phones. The rumor mill had also revealed their respective codenames as Walleye and Muskie. However, Google had reportedly cancelled the HTC Muskie phone to launch LG’s Taimen phone as Google Pixel 2 XL. Fresh information suggests that the newly unveiled HTC U11+ flagship phone could be the cancelled Pixel 2 XL Muskie phone.

According to The Verge, its sources have revealed that once Google rejected the Muskie phone, HTC decided to launch it as U11+ after some modifications. The recent high-end U-series smartphones feature reflective rear panels and the same has been included in the U11+ phone. It also features the stellar rear camera that is available on the HTC U11.

HTC’s Muskie was recent spotted in Android AOSP with a huge 3,830mAh capacity battery and 560DPI for its display. The specifications of the HTC U11+ such as the 3,930mAh battery and the 6-inch display with 18:9 aspect ratio is somewhat similar to the leaked information of Muskie phone.

After the HTC One Max smartphone was launched in 2013, the U11+ is the first phone from the company to house a rear-mounted fingerprint reader. The publication claims that the core design and engineering of U11+ was actually meant for the Pixel 2 XL phone. Hence, it appears that the smartphone was originally intended to launch as Pixel 2 XL.

The new flagship from HTC features Android 8.0 Oreo that is overlaid with the latest Sense UI. The Pixel Visual Core chip that is specially designed by Google for Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL is not available on the U11+.

Read More: HTC U11+ Photo Tour: Yet Another Full-Screen Phone But Not Like Galaxy S8

The LG-made Pixel 2 XL has a 6-inch QHD+ screen that produces 18:9 aspect ratio. However, instead of the LCD panel found on the U11+, the LG phone uses a OLED panel. However, recent reports have revealed the Pixel 2 XL’s OLED panel is of mediocre quality as it suffers from various issues like blue tint, black smear, and screen burn-in. HTC U11+ may not have very slim bezels, but it certainly appears like a sold flagship that will appreciation from the critics and users.

Do you think that Google should have launched HTC-made Pixel 2 XL phone? Let us know your thoughts by adding your comments below.

(source)

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A buyer who has recently purchased the Google Pixel 2 smartphone from Verizon has that found that his box contains a cutout for earbuds even though it is not present inside it. Moreover, the booklet of the Pixel 2 that he has received states that earbuds are included in the box.

Lucas Everett has shared the images of Pixel 2 box package that he received on his Twitter account. By looking at the images form the booklet, it appears that Google had considered including a wired earphone with a USB-C connector along with inline controls. The design of the wired earbuds appears quite similar to the wireless Pixel Buds that are sold separately by Google.

My box also didn't include the headphone USB adapter and the store gave me one from another box. This is so weird.

— Lucas Everett (@lucaseverett) October 27, 2017

Another thing that was not found in the box was a 3.5mm to USB-C adapter that is present inside all the Pixel 2 retail boxes. The probable reason behind it could be that the search engine giant may felt that there was no need to include the adapter since the package includes a pair of USB-C earbuds. When Lucas contacted Verizon, he was told that none of the other Pixel 2 box packages contain cutouts for earbuds and their booklets have no references for it. Google has confirmed that the box that Lucas received was an early package design meant for the U.S. market.

Read More: HTC Google Pixel 2 XL Muskie with 3,830mAh Battery Appears in AOSP

Samsung and Apple are providing premium earphones along with their flagship smartphones. It seems that Google had considered including premium earbuds in the box, but later on it was canceled. However, Google has not revealed the reason for canceling it. The Pixel Buds that are sold separately can be purchased with a pricing of $159.

The Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL smartphones have already encountered controversies soon after their launch. Durability tests on the Pixel 2 has revealed that its chassis is not strong enough. The Pixel 2 XL is being criticized for its mediocre quality OLED screen. Also, Google seems to be struggling with the production of Clearly White edition of Pixel 2 XL.

Have you received your Pixel 2 / Pixel 2 XL smartphone with accommodations for the earbuds? Also, do you think that Google should have included wired / wireless earphones in the Pixel 2 / 2 XL box package? Let us know your thoughts by posting your comments below.

(source|via 1, 2)

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The HTC-made Google Pixel 2 and LG-made Pixel 2 XL were unveiled at the beginning of this month. Before their launch, these phones were referred by their respective codenames of Walleye and Taimen. Earlier rumors had claimed that Google would be releasing 3 smartphones codenamed as walleye, muskie and taimen in this year, but the muskie phone was eventually cancelled. Today, the muskie model has appeared on AOSP code files to reveal some of its specs.

In the AOSP file, the PRODUCT_MANFACTURER of the muskie device is mentioned as Google. However, PRODUCT_DEVICE is mentioned as muskie. Investigating further on the files revealed that the muskie phone was made by HTC. The HTC-made Pixel 2 XL was reportedly cancelled in June as it was replaced by LG’s taimen device that was unveiled to the world as Pixel 2 XL.

The Google Pixel 2 XL has a large battery of 3,520mAh capacity, but the muskie model had a mammoth battery of 3,830mAh capacity. Few more things about the muskie device have been revealed through the Android source code. The Pixel 2 XL by LG has a screen density of 560 DPI. It has been found that HTC’s muskie also offered the same screen density which indicates that it would have featured a full screen display.

Read More: Google Pixel 2 Clicking Sounds Issue: Official Investigation Has Begun [Update]

A recent report has revealed that the Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL are fitted with a custom-made image processor called Pixel Visual Core. It has been included to specifically improve the photography experience without relying on the Snapdragon 835 chipset that fuels both the smartphones. The AOSP code files have also revealed that the HTC’s muskie phone also featured the Pixel Visual Core image processor.

The shipments of the pre-ordered Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL smartphones have started. Those who have managed to lay their hands soon on the Pixel 2 XL have claimed that its display is suffering from various issues like poor color reproduction, screen-burn in, blue tint and black smear. These problems are not affecting the performance of the phone, but Google is being criticized for using mediocre quality OLED panel by LG on the Pixel 2 XL.

The original Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones from last year were both made by HTC. Do you think that the Pixel 2 XL by HTC would have been a better phone than the current the Pixel 2 XL? Share us your thoughts by adding your comments below.

(source)

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Update: 

A Community Manager of the official Pixel forum has confirmed that Google has started investigating the low-frequency ticking or clicking sound problem on Pixel 2. He has further stated that the issue can be temporarily be resolved by turning off NFC. Also, he claims that those noises do not hamper the performance of the phone.

Original Post

Early users of the Pixel 2 XL have claimed that Google has used mediocre quality OLED panels from LG on the smartphone because of which it is suffering from issues like blue tint and poor color reproduction. Recently, some users have complained about other screen-related issues like black smear and screen burn-in. Durability tests that were carried on the Google Pixel 2 shows that the premium coating on the body of the phone can chip off easily with sharp objects and the phone’s back panel can break when it is flexed. Adding to the woes of the new Pixel 2 phones, early users are now reporting that their Pixel 2 units is making high-pitched clicking sounds.

One of the Pixel 2 users have explained the issue on Google’s products forums by saying that constant ticking sound can be heard when the handset is unlocked. However, the sound cannot be heard when the screen is off or when the screen is kept on while the device is locked.

Users have tried basic troubleshooting steps like restarting the device, factory reset, accessing the safe mode and so on but they were unable to find any success in killing the constant ticking sound issue. Some users have claimed that turning off the NFC feature can resolve the clicking sound problem, but the handset continues to make high pitched whining noise.

Read More: Google Pixel 2 Clearly White Shipments May Not Reach Customers Until Late November

Google is yet to release an official statement on the issue. However, a support staff from the company has said that a software fix will be arriving sometime in the coming week. Some Pixel 2 XL users have also claimed that they could hear clicking sounds from the handset. However, reports claim that the ticking sounds are louder on Pixel 2.

Users who are unsatisfied by Pixel 2 can begin the process of RMA to avail a fresh replacement under warranty. A user has claimed on the thread that there are two kinds of RMA. The first one requires users to send the old device and in the second one, users receive a new device and the old device can be mailed back.

The first method is free and the process takes around 5 to 10 days to complete. It does not involve any authorization hold. The second method is also free, but there is a hold on authorization while the new phone is sent to the user.

(source)

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Customers who have pre-ordered the Cleary White variant of the Google Pixel 2 have received an estimated shipment date of late October. However, many of them are now receiving emails that state that their order has been delayed by up to a month. It means that these customers are going to receive their Pixel 2 in late November.

People who have received emails on delayed shipments on the Clearly White edition of Pixel 2 have expressed their frustrations on Reddit. To make up for the delay, the search engine giant is providing a promo code to avail a Live Case worth $40 for free. The code will be sent out to these customers through a subsequent email.

Read More: Google Pixel 2 Teardown Video Shows Waterproofing & Other Internal Features

Based on posts made on Reddit, it can be understood that the issue is mainly related to the Clearly White variant of the Pixel 2 with 64 GB storage. Only the 64 GB Black model is available. However, the arrival of the other color and storage models of Pixel 2 have been delayed by multiple weeks.

Google had struggled to maintain sufficient stock of the original Pixel and Pixel XL in 2016. It is disappointing to see the company struggling once again with the new Pixel phones. Also, recent reports have revealed that the Pixel 2 XL features a mediocre quality OLED panel from LG that is marred with issues like poor color reproduction and blue tint. Another report has revealed that the Pixel 2 XL’s display is also suffering from screen burn-in issues.

(source 1, 2| via)

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The Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL smartphones that were codenamed as Walleye and Taimen were introduced to the world earlier in this month. The pre-ordered units of these phones have just started shipping and the rumor mill has some interesting information about 2018 Google Pixel phones.

Google is known for using fish names as codenames for its upcoming phones. A trusted source has revealed to Droid-Life that Crosshatch, Albacore, and Blueline are the codenames of the three Google Pixel phones that will be arriving next year. The source claims that the search engine giant may end up calling these smartphones as A, B and C to keep them secret.

It has been also revealed that at least of two of these devices will be arriving as “premium” phones and the third one could be a high-end model. While investigating on the existence of these devices, the publication found “crosshatch” mentioned in the comment for an AOSP listing for Pixel devices which can be seen in the below image. The page also contains references of “sailfish” and “marlin” that are codenames of original Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones.

Read More: Screen Burn-in Could be Pixel 2 XL’s New Issue, Google Release Official Statement on It

The above image shows that it also contains a reference to a mysterious “wahoo” device. There is no confirmation on which device is codenamed as wahoo. The publication claims that wahoo may not be related to the devices arriving in 2018.

At the beginning, Muskie, Walleye and Taimen were believed to be the three Pixel phones for this year. However, the Muskie model was eventually cancelled. Even though the 2018 Google Pixel phones are reportedly codenamed as Albacore, Blueline and Crosshatch, things may change as the release date nears.

More information on the 2018 Google Pixel smartphones are expected in the coming months.

(source 1, 2)

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Several reviewers have been criticizing the display of the Google Pixel 2 XL citing problems such as strange blue tint and poor color reproduction. A fresh report from Android Central claims that its Pixel 2 XL unit that has been in use since a week has encountered screen burn-in issue.

Screen burn-in is usually associated with OLED screens. It happens when a part of the screen remains longer to create a ghost image even after the screen is changed to view something else. The publication has released the following image of the Pixel 2 XL which shows the screen burn-in where the navigation bar is present.

That's some pretty wild OLED burn-in on the Pixel 2 XL after maybe 7 days of full-time use pic.twitter.com/EPJTs6D0Kg

— Alex Dobie (@alexdobie) October 22, 2017

Read More: Google Pixel 2 XL Teardown Unearths Pixel Visual Core Processor, Squeezable Frame Technology

Image retention or ghosting is another phenomenon that is usually related to LCD panels. It also causes certain portion of the screen to remain longer after viewing something new on the display. However, image retention is temporary, but screen burn-in is permanent.

One should be aware of the fact that screen burn-in can also happen on LCD panels and image retention can also occur on OLED displays. There is a possibility that the Pixel 2 XL’s new problem could be image retention. If it so, the issue may not be permanent.

Apart from Android Central, other leading tech portals like The Verge and 9to5 Google have come across screen burn-in issues on their Pixel 2 XL units. Many OLED panels are known to exhibit burn-in over several months or years. Hence, it is a bit strange to see such an issue to appear so soon on Pixel 2 XL.

Google has reached to The Verge to say that it is already investigating on the issue:

“The Pixel 2 XL screen has been designed with an advanced POLED technology, including QHD+ resolution, wide color gamut, and high contrast ratio for natural and beautiful colors and renderings. We put all of our products through extensive quality testing before launch and in the manufacturing of every unit. We are actively investigating this report.”

In the previous year, when users of original Pixel phones met with burn-in and display issues, they were granted with under warranty replacements immediately. Hence, Pixel 2 XL users who are facing screen burn-in problems could be eligible to receive a warranty replacement. However, it is also advisable to wait for Google to finish its investigation as there is no confirmation on whether the issue is temporary or permanent.

(source 1, 2)

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Jack Neilson from JerryRigEverything YouTube channel is known for carrying out different kinds of durability tests on newly released smartphones. This time he has performed scratch and bend tests on the Kinda Blue variant of the Google Pixel 2 that features a IP67 certified chassis with hybrid coating.

The Pixel 2 features a 5-inch OLED panel that is shielded by a sheet of Corning Gorilla Glass 5. The scratch test performed on the screen of Pixel 2 shows that it develops scratches on level 6 on Mohs scale of hardness and deeper grooves are observed on level 7. The displays of other flagship smartphones like the Apple iPhone 8, Samsung Galaxy S8, Galaxy Note 8 and iPhone 7 also offer the same level of durability.

The top and bottom bezels of the Pixel 2 feature large-sized metallic speaker grilles that are placed under the tough front glass. The 8-megapixel selfie camera found in the top bezel is also protected by the same glass.

The scratch test performed by using a razor on the back panel could scratch the so-called hybrid coating to reveal the underlying metal body. However, the official listing of Pixel 2 on Google’s site mentions that it has a water-resistant metal unibody. Nielson adds that digging deep in the tech specs page reveals that Pixel 2 has a “painted exterior” that can chip if the phone is dropped. It further states that leather or denim may transfer color to all the three color variants of the Pixel 2.

During the launch of Pixel 2 duo, the search engine giant described the design of the Pixel 2 as ”all aluminum body with a premium hybrid coating.” Since the rear of the Pixel 2 can develop scratches by harsh objects like blade and keys, buyers may have to spend a bit more to purchase a case for it. The fingerprint scanner present on the backside does not work properly once it is scratched by some sharp object like blade.

The Pixel 2’s screen was also subject to burn test. Treating it with flame for about 15 seconds turned the affect area into white and it never recovered. Lastly, the bend test of the Pixel 2 shows its rear panel split at the place where the plastic antenna lines are present. It shows that the Google has put the antenna lines at the middle of the metal frame on the Pixel 2 which is the weakest portion on every smartphone when it comes to bending.

Read More: Google Pixel 2 XL Teardown Unearths Pixel Visual Core Processor, Squeezable Frame Technology

The Pixel 2 has struggled to clear the scratch, burn and bend tests. Also, Neilson seems to be unhappy with the smartphone as it lacks various features dual rear cameras, 3.5mm audio jack, microSD card slot, and wireless charging. Neilson is yet to perform durability test on Pixel 2 XL that features a 3D glass enabled body.

(source)

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Google Pixel 2 XL comes with a squeezable frame like the HTC U11. Moreover, a recent report had revealed that it features a Pixel Visual Core custom image processor hidden inside its body. iFixit has done a teardown of the Pixel 2 XL to not only reveal its innards but also to check how easy it is to repair it.

Most smartphones that have metal and glass combination body require some amount of heating to open them. However, even though IP67 rating of Google Pixel 2 XL has resulted in sealing of all the ingress points, opening the phone is easy as it does not require any heating.

The Pixel 2 XL features a tightly walled 3.85V 3,520mAh battery. There is no pull-tab adhesive beneath the battery found in the original Pixel phones because of which removing the battery is not easy. The phone includes a magnesium midframe that adds stability to the structure of Pixel 2 XL and its thin display. The frame is also equipped with a heat pipe that is unavailable on the original Pixel and Pixel XL phones.

For the main camera of the Pixel 2 XL, Google has used a dual-pixel sensor that is enabled with optical image stabilization. The teardown shows that it has f/1.8 aperture 12-megapixel sensor.

The squeezable frame feature available on the Pixel 2 XL and Pixel 2 is named as Active Edge by Google. Squeezing the sides of the phone will allow users to launch the Pixel 2 XL smartphone to launch the Google Assistant. The Google Pixel 2 XL teardown has revealed that the sides of the smartphone is equipped with a pair of “strain gauges.”

Read More: Pixel 2 Camera Samples Include Portrait Photos & Low-Light Images

The above image shows that the Active Edge sensor comprises of a bendable circuit board that includes a line of steel blocks with resistors (strain gauges) placed between them. Both the sides of the Pixel 2 XL and Pixel 2 are equipped with such strain gauges. The software of the Pixel 2 duo can understand the different levels of pressures. Hence, these phones can support variety of pressure settings.

The Pixel 2 XL features several modular components such DDR4 RAM as well as 64 GB UFS storage from Samsung and embedded SIM module from STMicroelectronics. iFixit was also able to find the Google’s custom image processor called Pixel Visual Core with internal part number of SR3HX X726C502. The dormant chip is expected to spring into action after the arrival of Android 8.1 Oreo update for Pixel 2 duo.

iFixit has praised Google for using easily replaceable modular components and also using common screws inside the Pixel 2 XL. Since the battery is not easily removable and there are hard-to-remove cable covers, iFixit has given a repairability score of 6/10 to the Pixel 2 XL which is lower than 7/10 points scored by the original Pixel.

(souce)

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The Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL should start shipping today to those who pre-ordered. Both phones will come with Android 8.0 Oreo out of the box but that won’t be for long.

Google has confined that an Android 8.1 Oreo update should arrive in coming weeks, though first as a developer preview (MR1). The stable update should follow after, arriving on the new Pixels first and then last year’s models.

The update is expected to activate the Pixel Visual Core chip inside the 2nd gen Pixels. No other features from the changelog have been mentioned.

Yesterday, Google revealed that the new Pixels have an image processing unit called the Pixel Visual Core. It will handle all things photography on the device. It is said to consume a tenth of the energy consumed by the SD835 while being 5X faster.

READ MORE: Google Pixel Buds Live Translation Will Work on Original Pixel Smartphones

Apart from that, developers will be able to use it to bring the Pixel’s HDR+ photography to their apps that use the Android Camera API. This feature is said to come later.

(Via)

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Google Pixel 2 has scored the highest ever score of 98 onDxO Marks camera benchmarking site. The search engine giant is using its special HDR+ algorithm to enhance the quality of photos. Fresh information coming directly from Google reveals that there is a dedicated image processing chip inside Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL that can considerably improve the photography experience.

Google’s image processing unit for Pixel 2 is called Pixel Visual Core is an eight-core Image Processing Unit (IPU) that can function independently of the Snapdragon 835 that powers the Pixel 2 duo. The custom SoC from Google is not activated yet. Google is rumored to be working on building its own SoC since the past two years and the new Pixel Visual Core seems to be one such attempt from the company.

Apart from the octa-core IPU, the Pixel Visual Core also includes a single Cortex A53 processor and LPDDR4 RAM. The imaging chipset has been included to accelerate the HDR+ algorithm. It will expedite image processing by 5x while consuming only a tenth of the power of Snapdragon 835. Apart from accelerating HDR+ algorithm, the Pixel Visual Core is built to manage imaging and machine learning apps. The search engine giant is already working on next batch of applications for the Pixel Visual Core.

Even though the Pixel Visual Core can significantly enhance the photography experience, Google did not utter a word on it during the Pixel 2 launch event that was held earlier in this month. A teardown of Google Pixel 2 or Pixel 2 XL will reveal the Pixel Visual Core SoC. Both the smartphones feature f/1.8 aperture 12-megapixel rear camera that can shoot amazing portrait shots and impressive images in low-light conditions. The Pixel Visual Core SoC can help in shooting crisper portrait photos and clearer low-light images.

Read More: Google Pixel Buds Live Translation Will Work on Original Pixel Smartphones

According to Google, the Pixel Visual Core will be activated with the arrival of Android 8.1 Oreo update for Pixel 2. It will allow third party camera apps to use the HDR+ image processing for shooting impressive photos that are as good as the stock camera app. It means the Pixel 2 duo will be able to shoot better images than other Android smartphones even if the user is not using native camera app.

(source)

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Google’s Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL are the smartphones with the highest DxO mark. While some people think DxO Mark isn’t a good judge of camera performance, at least we all can agree that the new Pixel smartphones take impressive pictures.

After the launch, I am sure a number of us saw sample photos shared online by early reviewers and those at the event. Google has released official sample pictures taken with the Pixel 2 which includes portrait mode photos, motion images, and landscape images. Sadly, there are no photos with the AR filters

This year again, Google has shown that it has no reason to join the dual camera train. The Pixel 2 ( and 2 XL) has a single 12.2MP camera with a F/1.8 aperture and a 1.4μm pixel size. There is laser autofocus and dual pixel phase detection for images, and optical and electronic image stabilization for videos.

You can record in 1080p at 30fps, 60fps and 120fps; 720p at 30fps, 60fps, and 240fps; and 4K at 30fps. The Pixel 2 performs well in low light with its HDR+ technology.

READ MORE: Google Will Focus On Offline Stores for Pixel 2 Sales in India

The front 8MP camera with the same pixel size but a F/2.4 aperture also takes really impressive photos including portraits.

Take a look at some of the pictures below or head to Google Photos to view the complete gallery.

(Source, via)

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The original Google Pixel and Pixel XL phones feature 3.5mm audio jack. However, the recently unveiled Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL smartphones do not feature it. Soon after the unveiling of the Pixel 2 duo, the removal of the 3.5mm audio jack on the Pixel 2 duo was met heavy criticism on Google’s Product Forums. Orrin Hancock, the official Community Manager of Google for Nexus/Pixel products responded to the criticism by saying that the  USB-C port is a headphone jack and the company decided to remove the 3.5mm audio jack in order to deliver superior audio and digital experience.

According to Hancock, the axing of 3.5mm audio jack is a move towards bezel-less future and it is becoming a common feature on some of the best phones and laptops available today. The USB-C port on the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL is the only port available for connecting a wired earphone and a charger. In other words, users can’t charge the Pixel 2 or 2 XL and listen to music simultaneously.

Read More: Google Engineer Confirms Both Pixel 2 & Pixel 2 XL Work With 27W Chargers

When forum users cited the above issue, Google’s staff advised Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL users to either avail dongles or Bluetooth headphones or ear buds. Hancock has even provided a list of Google branded and Made for Google headsets for Pixel 2 and 2 XL. He has also suggested users to purchase USB-C headphones that support digital audio. Hence, both the Pixel 2 phones do not support analog audio.

The box package of Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL include an adapter that can be used on a 3.5mm headphone to connect it to a USB-C port. When Apple had axed 3.5mm audio jack on the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus last year, Google mocked at it by using a tagline “3.5mm audio jack – satisfyingly not new” for the original Pixel and Pixel XL phones. And now, Google has taken the same path as it has removed the 3.5mm audio jack on Pixel 2 phones.

The Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL smartphones are currently available on pre-orders. In the U.S., both the smartphones will start shipping from Oct. 19.

(source|via)

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A new app on the Play Store called Pixel Ambient Services has revealed a new feature for the new Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL.

The app description says it provides features based on local context for Pixel devices. The app screenshots actually explain a bit more. Remember the always listening Shazam-like feature of the new Pixels? This is the app that controls it. As you can see, you can even set it not to display on the lock screen.

A fourth screenshot mentions another feature which automatically turns on Do Not Disturb mode while you are in a moving vehicle. It says that this is determined by device motion and Bluetooth connections. So it will probably only turn it on when certain conditions are met. If you feel you do not like the feature or its not working properly, you can simply turn it off.

READ MORE: Google Announces Google Home Mini and Google Home Max

However, since the app is listed on the Play Store, bug fixes and new features can be added without a need for pushing out an OTA device to the phone itself.

(Source, via)

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Apart from the folks at Google, no one knows the exact amount of first-gen Pixel phones sold. A research from a few months ago puts the figure at close to 2 million. It is a no-brainer that Google will want to sell more units of the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL this time around and to do that, it plans to take a different approach to sales, at least in India.

According to the Senior Vice President of Google Hardware, Rick Osterloh and the VP of Hardware Product Management, Mario Queiroz, the new Pixel smartphones will still be sold online and offline but will focus more on offline sales.

In Rick Osterloh’s words “Our focus was online last year. People tend to not buy such premium products so if people can see the device and experience it, will help quite a bit”.

Offline sales are very important and should not be overlooked even in developed countries. Xiaomi learnt this the hard way and has opened 200 Mi Stores in its home country this year alone. People want to see what they want to buy and experience what it has to offer before shelling out so much money.

How Google plans to tackle the problem is still unknown but the chance of standalone Google shops is slim. It will most likely be modular shops in popular retail stores and malls.

READ MORE: Google Launches Pixelbook 2-in-1 Notebook Along With A Stylus Dubbed Pixelbook Pen

Prices for the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL have also been revealed for India. The HTC-made Pixel 2 will begin at INR 61,000 (~$932) for the 64GB model and jump to INR 70,000 (~$1070) for the 128GB model. The Pixel 2 XL made by LG will sell for INR 73,000 (~$1,115) for the 64GB variant and INR 82,000 (~$1,253) for double the storage. They will be available for pre-order on October 26 as a Flipkart exclusive.

(Source, via)

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On Wednesday, Google had unveiled the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL flagship smartphones. It’s been only a day since the launch of the Pixel 2 and Best Buy is already selling it with a discount of $100 for customers who buy it through monthly installments. The price of the Pixel 2 XL is also discounted by $25.

Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL are exclusively available through Verizon in the U.S. The unlocked Pixel 2 and 2 XL can be availed through Google Store in the U.S. These unlocked models that come with e-SIM for Project Fi subscribers will allow users to seamlessly switch between multiple networks like Sprint, T-Mobile and U.S. Cellular.

The $100 discount for Google Pixel 2 is only available on its Verizon variant, not for its unlocked model. Hence, in order to take advantage of $100 price cut on Pixel 2, buyers will have to subscribe for Verizon’s installment plan.

Read More: Google Pixel 2 Camera Now DXOMark’s Best Camera With A Score of 98

Best Buy is offering the 64 GB Pixel 2 with monthly installments of $22.91 and its 128 GB model with monthly payments of $27.08 for 24 months. These two models are currently available with a respective pricing of $649 and $749. However, Best Buy’s installment plan for Verizon Pixel 2 will allow users to pay a grand total of $549.84 for the 64 GB model and $649.92 for the 128 GB variant.

As far as Pixel 2 XL is concerned, its 64 GB model is available with monthly payments of $34.36 for 24 months which brings its total cost to $824.64. The 128 GB variant can be bought with $38.53 monthly installments for 24 months which brings its total price to $924.72. Hence, these installment plans bring a mere discount of $25 on the original pricing of $849 and $949 for the two storage models of Pixel 2 XL.

Buyers of Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL will be provided with a Google Home Mini smart speaker for free. The shipments of the Pixel 2 will start on Oct. 19. However, the exact release date of Pixel 2 XL has not been revealed yet.

What do you think about $100 discount offer for Pixel 2 on Best Buy? Are you interested in availing it? share us your thoughts by adding your comments below.

(source 1, 2| via)

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Google announced the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL a few hours ago. Both devices bring a ton of updates and new features. Just like the first-gen models, these devices are “made by Google” with no branding of their OEMs (HTC and LG this time around).

Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL Design

Unlike the first gen pixels that differed in only screen size, resolution, and battery capacity; the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL add those three and also the aspect ratio which has resulted in them looking different.

Apart from the design of the Pixel 2 XL which is greatly influenced by its 18:9 display, thinner bezels, and also the difference in the battery capacities, both phones offer the same experience. The rest of the internals are the same. Google actually threw a jab at Apple’s own mode of offering more premium features in one model over the other.

Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL Specs

The Pixel 2 XL packs a 6.0-inch 1440 x 2880 P-OLED display just like the LG V30. The display has an 18:9 aspect ratio and the bezels are thinner on the phone. However, due to the stereo front facing speakers, the Pixel 2 XL’s bezels are thicker than that of other 18:9 flagships in the market.

The display is protected with a 3D arc Corning Gorilla Glass 5. There is also glass on the back and an aluminium frame in between.

The Pixel 2 on the other hand has a 5” AMOLED screen with a FHD resolution. It keeps the 16:9 aspect ratio and the thick bezels from last year’s model. There is Gorilla Glass 5 protecting it too.

The new generation Pixels have not joined the large RAM bandwagon. RAM is still 4GB and storage is 64GB or 128GB. They are both powered by the Snapdragon 835 mobile platform.

For optics, things have also not changed. While most flagships this year pack dual rear cameras, the new Pixel make do with just one on both sides. The rear camera is a 12MP f/1.8 1.4um sensor which has once again been given the highest DxO mark rating on a smartphone (98).

The rear camera has gotten a few tricks up its sleeves. First when you record, you get more stable videos thanks to OIS and EIS working simultaneously. There is also portrait mode for images with bokeh effect and while the 2nd gen Pixels only have one sensor, Google says it achieves this thanks to dual pixel phase detection and machine learning.

The front camera is an 8MP f/2.4 1.4μm sensor which also employs the same technology as the rear for portrait selfies. The new Pixels also have Google lens which let’s you point your camera at an object and get information about it.

Even though the Pixel 2 XL is made by LG, it also has the Active Edge feature of the HTC-built Pixel 2. This allows users to squeeze their phones and carry out actions like launching assistant.

The Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL come with one e-SIM and a nano SIM slot. There is Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, GPS and dual band Wi-Fi. There is also a dedicated security chip to protect against malware and hardware attacks.

As rumored, both phones have ditched the 3.5mm audio jack but come with a USB-C to 3.5mm headphone adapter. However, they are now both water and dust resistant with an IP67 rating.

The Pixel 2 has a 2700mAh battery and comes in three colors – kinda blue, just black and clearly white. The Pixel 2 XL packs a 3520mAh battery and is available in Just Black and Black & White.

READ MORE: Google Announces Google Home Mini and Google Home Max

Google says both phones will receive security updates for 3 years. They will be available starting October 17 and will be priced at $649 for the 64GB Pixel 2 and $749 for the 128GB model. The Pixel 2 XL will start at $849 for the 64GB version and $949 for the 128GB model. For a limited time only, buyers will get a free Google Home Mini when they purchase any of the variants.

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In a few hours, Google will take the wraps off its 2nd gen Pixel smartphones. Over the last six months or more, we have seen countless leaks about the design and specification details. Right now, everyone knows what both phones will look like already. However, there are still a few specification details that aren’t known yet. A full specification sheet surfaced online yesterday revealing all there is to know about the larger Pixel 2 XL.

The Pixel 2 XL is made by LG and just like the new V30, the Pixel 2 XL will have a 6.0-inch P-OLED display. The screen will have a 1440 x 2880 resolution (538 ppi) and an 18:9 aspect ratio. The display will be protected by Gorilla Glass 5 (3D arc).

The Google Pixel 2 XL is a dual SIM phone with a single SIM slot. Confusing? That’s because the second SIM is an eSIM (electronic SIM) embedded in the phone.

The spec list doesn’t mention an audio jack but there have been confirmations from trusted sources that it has been removed. There are three microphones and Wi-Fi calling is supported. Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, and a rear fingerprint scanner are also present.

While the spec sheet doesn’t mention the rear camera, it does state that the front camera is an 8MP f/2.4 sensor. There is also a mention of a Pixel Visual Core which some say is a dedicated image processing chip.

The Pixel 2 XL will be powered by the Snapdragon 835 clocked at 2.35GHz and will be available in 64GB and a more than likely 128GB version. It will come with Android 8.0 Oreo but an update to 8.1 should not be far off after launch.

READ MORE: Pixelbook Specs Seen in Reseller Inventory Listing, New Product Called Google Clips Spotted Too

The Pixel 2 XL will have an aluminium body and be water resistant and dustproof. It will have LG’s signature Knock Knock function and an adaptive audio amplifier. Its battery capacity is 3520mAh.

(Sources: 1, 2 )

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Google had done a good job of keeping the upcoming Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL smartphones under the wraps throughout the year. However, the entire specifications of both phones have surfaced in the past few weeks. The leaked press renders of Pixel 2 duo have also surfaced earlier in this week. Few hours ago, the Google Home Mini smart speaker that is expected to get unveiled on Wednesday was made available on pre-orders on Walmart. The listing not only contained images of the Home Mini but also it featured an image of the Pixel 2 XL. The pre-order listing on Walmart was taken offline quickly, but 9to5Google was able to download the images of both devices.

The above image of the Google Pixel 2 XL that has surfaced through Walmart shows that it features a white rear and a black colored front. The glass that is laid on top of the display seems to a bit curved at the edges.

The bottom side of the phone features a USB Type-C port and its front-facing dual speakers are also visible. The screen has rounded corners. Even though the side bezels do not appear very slim, they seem to be thinner than the bezels of the predecessor phone. Rumors have revealed that the Pixel 2 XL is an LG-made device that features a 6-inch display that supports QHD+ resolution and an aspect ratio of 18:9.

As previous reports have revealed, the Google Home Mini is a smaller edition of Google Home smart speaker. It was listed with a pricing of $49 on Walmart.

Read More: Google Pixel 2 Launch Event: How to Watch Livestream and What to Expect?

The Home Mini that is powered by Google Assistant can answer queries, control the smart home, play music and share weather info. It measures 4.53 x 4.53 x 4.72 inches. The pre-order page of Google Home Mini had revealed that its shipping will begin on Oct. 19.

As far as Google Pixel 2 XL is concerned, recent reports have revealed that its 64 GB and 128 GB models will be respectively priced at $849 and $949. Even though the Pixel 2 XL will be unveiled on Wednesday, its shipments are rumored to begin on Nov. 15. The Google Pixel 2 is rumored to be respectively priced at $649 and $749 for 64 GB and 128 GB storage models. Its shipments are rumored to begin on Oct. 19.

(via 1. 2)

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Google has a big launch event scheduled for tomorrow at San Francisco. Apart from unveiling Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL smartphones, the search engine giant will be also showcasing other devices. Here is what our readers can expect from Google Pixel 2 launch event:

How to Watch Google Pixel 2 Launch Event?

As mentioned above, the event will take place at San Francisco and it will begin at 9 AM PST in the U.S. The event will be also livestreamed on the official “Made by Google” YouTube channel.

Viewers in the U.K. can view the livestream at 5 PM BST. In India, it will be viewable at 9:30 PM IST. In China, the Pixel 2 launch event livestream will be viewable at 12 AM on Oct. 5.

Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL

Plenty of information on the Google Pixel 2 duo have been revealed ahead of its launch. Readers can visit the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL rumor roundup article to known everything on their expected specifications, features, and pricing. Earlier today, reliable tipster Evan Blass has revealed the leaked press renders of the Pixel 2 and 2 XL. The 64 GB and 128 GB Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL are rumored to carry respective pricing of $649/$749 and $849/$949.

Google Pixelbook and Pixel Pen

The rumored Pixelbook is a convertible device that can be used as a laptop as well as a tablet. It is speculated as a premium device that will be running on Chrome OS. Its 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB models are tipped to arrive with respective pricing of $1,199, $1,399 and $1,749. Google is rumored to sell an optional Pixel Pen stylus worth $99 for the Pixelbook.

Google Home Mini and Daydream View VR

A smaller version of Google Home smart speaker dubbed as Home Mini is also pegged to debut tomorrow. Unlike the regular Google Home, its mini version may not be a wireless device. The Google Assistant driven miniature smart speaker is expected to cost $49 and it is likely to come in multiple color options.

The Daydream View VR will be enhanced version of the original model that was launched in the previous year. It Is expected to arrive in multiple colors along with a motion controller. The device is expected to be priced at $99.

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On Wednesday, Google will be holding its launch event to unveil new hardware devices including the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL smartphones. Fresh information that has surfaced today has revealed that Google will reportedly announce a “Made for Google” program for third party accessories. This certification program will be similar to Apple’s MFi (Made for i) plan.

A source that is aware of the Made for Google initiative and another source that is associated with the upcoming hardware announcement has confirmed to 9to5 Google that the search engine giant will be starting a certification program for third party accessories.

Read More: Fresh Official Renders of The Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL Leaked

Apple’s MFi certification program allow third party accessories manufacturers to make use of Apple’s logo and branding apart from providing them with hardware components, specifications and technical support. Previously, the Cupertino company used to charge a fee for each certified device. However, the requirement was later dropped by Apple. It is likely that Google may adopt a similar strategy through “Made for Google” in order to promote Google and Pixel brand names among the consumers.

Google’s new program could result in certified products like USB-C enabled chargers, battery packs, USB cables and so on for the upcoming Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL smartphones. The USB Implementers Forum Inc. has already laid out a standard that all cables are expected to follow. However, is has been found that the cables provided by Android OEMs do not meet the required Type-C standard. Using low quality cables that do not meet the specifications can be potentially harmful to devices.

Hence, customers looking to purchase a third-party accessory will certainly feel confident in buying a product with a “Made for Google” stamp on it.

(source|via)

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Just two days away from the official launch of the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL, we get fresh photos of both devices from popular leaker, Evan Blass. The images reveal all there is about the design, so come Wednesday the only new info will be the software features of both phones.

Evan had earlier shared an image of the Pixel 2 XL wrapped up in a case before releasing more photos on his website, Venture Beat. The photo gives us a good look at the front of the phone and confirms some features earlier reported.

The Pixel 2 XL will indeed come with front facing speakers. While the top speaker/earpiece is closer to the edge of the bezel, the bottom speaker is a few mm away from it. At the top left corner sits the front facing camera.

The image also confirms the report of a new Pixel launcher. As you can see, the search bar is now in between the icon dock and the navigational buttons.

A second image gives us a better look at the 6” QHD display with an 18:9 aspect ratio. With its rounded corners just like that of the LG G6 , the Pixel 2 XL doesn’t hide the fact that its made by LG. A third Pixel 2 XL image shows the device in the panda color we saw a few weeks ago, with the power button in orange.

The HTC-made Pixel 2 with its 5-inch FHD display also makes an appearance. It maintains the 16:9 aspect ratio of its predecessor but gets dual front facing speakers.

The Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL will be powered by the Snapdragon 835 mobile platform and run Android 8 Oreo out of the box. They will have 4GB of RAM with either 64GB or 128GB of storage. The rear cameras are 12MP sensors on both devices too.

READ MORE: Google May launch Its Own Amazon Echo Show Competitor

The pricing is said to be $649/$749 for the Pixel 2 and $849/$949 for the Pixel 2 XL. The former will go on sale on October 19 and the Pixel 2 XL will be available for purchase on November 15.

The 2nd-gen Pixel launch will begin at 9:00 AM PST (4:00 PM GMT) and will be live-streamed on YouTube.

(Sources: 1, 2)

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Google’s upcoming Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL flagship phones are launching on Oct. 4. The rumor mill has revealed almost everything on the upcoming Pixel phones from their specifications to pricing. Here is a rumor roundup on the upcoming Pixel smartphones.

Design and Display

The leaked renders of the Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL smartphones have revealed that these phones will be arriving with a two-tone design on the back panel. One-third of the rear panel will be made up of glass and the remaining portion is pegged to be made up of metal. Last year’s Google Pixel phones had the fingerprint scanner placed inside the glass portion. However, upcoming Pixel 2 phones are rumored to feature the fingerprint reader in the metallic portion.

The IP67 certified chassis of Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL will protect them from damage from water and dust. The Pixel 2 duo are unlikely to feature the standard 3.5mm audio jack, but are pegged to arrive with dual stereo speakers on the front panel. The Pixel 2 is expected to come in colors like Kinda Blue, Just Black and Clearly White whereas the Pixel 2 XL may be available in Black & White and Just Black color variants.

The Pixel 2 is speculated to resemble the original Pixel phone whereas the Pixel 2 XL is rumored to have a full-screen design like the LG V30. The Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL are rumored to feature a pressure-sensitive frame like HTC U11. The feature is rumored to be called Active Edge. Squeezing the Pixel 2 or 2 XL may allow users to perform certain actions such as activating Google Assistant and dismissing alarm.

The Pixel 2 is speculated to arrive with a 4.97-inch OLED display that will support FHD resolution. The Pixel 2 XL is rumored to be fitted with a 5.99-inch OLED display that may deliver a resolution of 2,880 x 1,440 pixels along with an aspect ratio of 18:9. The Pixel 2 XL’s display is expected to support Wide Color Gamut and offer a screen-to-body ratio of around 80 to 85 percent.

Chipset, Storage and Battery

The Snapdragon 835 SoC along with 4 GB RAM are rumored to be present under the hood of Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL. These phones are expected to arrive in storage sizes like 64 GB and 128 GB. Like the original Pixel phones, the Pixel 2 duo are unlikely to feature a microSD card slot. The Pixel 2 may come equipped with a 2,700 mAh battery whereas the Pixel 2 XL may house a 3,520 mAh battery.

Camera and Software

There is no information available on the exact camera configuration of the cameras that will be available on the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL. However, both the phones are going to feature the same rear and front cameras. The rear cameras of both phones are speculated to carry support for Optical Image Stabilization.

The Google Pixel 2 and 2 XL are rumored to arrive with Android 8.1 Oreo preinstalled. It is expected to bring some new features like a redesigned Pixel launcher, portrait mode feature on Google camera app, and Always-On Display. Google Lens that will allow users to point the cameras of the Pixel 2 phones to any object to get relevant information is speculated as one of the killer features of Pixel 2 duo.

The presence of e-SIM inside the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL will allow users to easily switch between networks of different carriers of the U.S. through Project Fi. The search engine will be providing free unlimited storage on Google Cloud until 2023 for Pixel 2 and 2 XL buyers.

Pricing, Launch Event and Livestreaming

The 64 GB and 128 GB Pixel 2 are rumored to be respectively priced at $649 and $749 and the same storage models of Pixel 2 XL are speculated to respectively cost $849 and $949.

The launch event of the Pixel 2 duo will be held at San Francisco begin on Oct. 4 at 9 AM PST in the U.S. The event will be livestreamed here. It can be viewed at 5 PM BST, 9:30 PM IST and 12 AM on Oct. 5 in China.

Through the Oct. 4 launch event, Google is also expected to unveil Google Pixelbook, Home Mini smart speaker and Daydream View VR and Google Assistant powered headphones. The rumor mill is also talking another Google phone called Ultra Pixel that is expected to rival with Apple iPhone X. However, it may not get unveiled with Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL

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Google is going to unveil the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL flagship phones on Oct. 4. These smartphones are reportedly codenamed as Walleye and Taimen. Previous reports have revealed that Google was working on another phone codenamed as Muskie. However, newer reports on it have suggested that the Muskie phone has been canceled. Was it really canceled or does it still exist? A video uploaded by YouTuber Arun Maini suggests that a third Google phone dubbed as “Ultra pixel” does exist.

The above YouTube video contains several images and videos of a leaked presentation from Google that reveals the mysterious Ultra pixel phone. The moniker of the alleged phone has the word “pixel” mentioned in small case.

The video on the alleged Ultra Pixel suggests that it features an elongated display with very slim side bezels. The original source suggests that the smartphone also features dual rear cameras. The mysterious phone also seems to house a new type of fingerprint reader. It is likely that this smartphone may feature an under-display fingerprint reader. Hence, the Ultra Pixel could be a codename of a forthcoming Google Pixel phone arriving in the near future.

Another shot of a leaked slide reveals the text that reads: “The future of Android is Fluid.” What does it mean? This suggests that the smartphone won’t be featuring any physical or on-screen buttons and it could be entirely controlled through gestures like the iPhone X. There seems to be a multitasking icon at the bottom of the display for controlling the alleged Ultra Pixel through gestures. The video claims that Google could be launching the Pixel 2, Pixel 2 XL and Ultra Pixel to respectively rival with iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus and iPhone X.

Read More: Google Pixel 2, Pixel 2 XL Pricing, Images, Color Variants Have Been Leaked

There is no way to confirm whether the device actually exists as it could be a last-minute hoax before the arrival of the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL smartphones. Since some of the images do appear credible, it is difficult to debunk the rumors of Ultra Pixel phone by Google.

However, it seems that the search engine giant is unlikely to launch this phone at the Oct. 4 launch event as the alleged phone does not seem to belong to Pixel 2 family. The leaked information suggests it features dual rear cameras, a feature that won’t be available on the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL smartphones. The upcoming Google Pixel 2 duo are speculated to arrive with dual front-facing speakers. However, such speakers cannot be seen in the images of the alleged Ultra Pixel phone.

(source|via)

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We have six more days before Google takes off the wraps on the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL. There have been a number of fresh leaks in the last few days about both phones.

One of the details mentioned in recent leaks says both the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL will have stereo front-facing speakers. Images of screen protectors for the phones have surfaced online confirming this info.

The pictures show that the Pixel 2 will have its stereo speakers embedded in the chin and forehead of the phone with bezels surrounding them just like the Nexus 6P. The Pixel 2 XL’s stereo speakers are closer to the edges similar to the design of the Nexus 9.

READ MORE: Google Pixelbook Image, Pricing Leaked, Reportedly Launching on October 4

The new Pixels will not come with a 3.5mm audio jack but it is good to see Google compensate for it with an overall better audio experience. Front facing stereo speakers are great. The sounds are pumped directly at you and you don’t have to worry about your palm blocking the speakers like it happens in phones with their speakers at the bottom.

(Sources: 1, 2)

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A lot of information on the upcoming Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL smartphones have been revealed in the past weeks. Today, Android Authority has shared fresh details on the specifications of the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL that it has received from an exclusive source.

Google Pixel 2 XL Specifications

The Pixel 2 XL will be coming with a curved edge-to-edge display that will support QHD resolution. The display is expected to carry support for Wide Color Gamut. The publication claims that it is not sure of the exact size of the display for Pixel 2 XL. However, its source has stated that it will be supporting a screen-to-body ratio of about 80 to 85 percent. Previous rumors have claimed that it will be fitted with a 5.99-inch OLED panel from LG.

The Pixel 2 will be driven by Snapdragon 835 chipset and it is expected to arrive in 64 GB and 128 GB models. It is going to be equipped with a battery of 3,520 mAh capacity. The publication has added that the Pixel 2 XL won’t be featuring a 3.5mm audio jack, but it will be flanked with dual stereo speakers.

Just like the original Pixel phones, Google is expected to include stellar cameras on the Pixel 2 XL and Pixel 2. At least, one of the camera sensors of the smartphone is going to feature OIS. The Pixel 2 XL is going to feature a e-SIM card that would allow users to seamlessly switch between networks in the U.S.

The Pixel 2 XL is likely to feature Google’s second-generation fingerprint reader. As far as the durability of Pixel 2 XL is concerned, it will feature an IP67 certified dust and water-resistant along with Gorilla Glass 5 protection.

The Active Edge feature that will function like the Edge Sense feature on HTC U11 will be available on the left side of the Pixel 2 XL. Hence, squeezing the Pixel 2 XL will allow to launch Google Assistant or dismiss an alarm.

Google Pixel 2 Specifications

The Google Pixel 2 is expected to arrive with identical specs as its larger sibling. However, the Pixel 2 will have some key differences. Since the Pixel 2 will be arriving with a smaller display that supports FHD resolution, it is unlikely to support Wide Color Gamut. It will be featuring a battery of 2,700 mAh capacity. Previous reports have revealed that it will be coming with a 4.97-inch display.

Read More: Google Pixel 2, Pixel 2 XL Pricing, Images, Color Variants Have Been Leaked

Customers of Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL will be provided with unlimited Google Cloud storage for free until 2023. The Pixel 2 duo will be unveiled on Oct. 4.

(source)

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Google will be unveiling Pixel 2 made by HTC and Pixel 2 XL manufactured by LG on Oct. 4. The pricing and color variants of the Pixel 2 duo smartphones have been leaked.

Google Pixel 2 Pricing and Images

The Google Pixel 2 will be coming in two storage sizes of 64 GB and 128 GB. They will be respectively priced at $649 and $749. The 32 GB and 128 GB storage models of the original Pixel phone had launched with the same pricing.

The Pixel 2 will be available in three color variants such as Kinda blue, Just Black and Clearly White. The 64 GB Pixel will be also available with $27.04 monthly payments for 24 months. The 128 GB Pixel 2 will be costing $31.21 per month for 24 months.

Google Pixel 2 XL Pricing and Images

There has been a confusion regarding the exact name of the larger Pixel 2 phone. The source claims that it will be called Pixel 2 XL (not Pixel XL 2). The handset will be coming in two color choices such as Black & White and Just Black.

The 64 GB Google Pixel 2 XL will be priced at $849 and the 128 GB model will be selling for $949. Last year’s 32 GB and 128 GB Pixel XL models were respectively priced at $769 and $869.

Through financing, the 64 GB Pixel 2 XL will be available for $34.38 for 24 months and the 128 GB model will be costing $39.54 for the same period.

Read More: Google Pixelbook Image, Pricing Leaked, Reportedly Launching on October 4

With the arrival of the new Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL phones, Google is expected to slash the pricing of the original Pixel phones. As it can be seen above, all the variants of Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL sport two-tone design for the back panel like the original Pixel phones. The top portion of the rear panel only houses the camera and its LED flash and the remaining portion that is rumored to be made up of metal includes a fingerprint scanner. The original Pixel phones have the fingerprint scanner positioned in the glass portion of the back panel.

Both the Snapdragon 835 chipset driven Pixel 2 phones are expected to come with identical specs. However, the Pixel 2 is pegged to house a 4.97-inch FHD display and the Pixel 2 XL is rumored to arrive with a full screen design 5.99-inch OLED display with QHD resolution. These phones are unlikely to feature 3.5mm audio jack, but will be coming with some new features like Android 8.1 Oreo, pressure-sensitive frame, Always-on Display and dual front-facing speakers.

The search engine giant has created a landing page for Google Pixel 2. It is expected to become active once Pixel 2 duo smartphones are officially unveiled.

(source 1, 2)

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