Google Pixel/Pixel XL User Experiences
The Pixel and Pixel XL have been all the rage in 2016. At the Google Store in Soho, I had the opportunity to test both the Pixel and Pixel XL to learn more about the user experiences.
SIZE:
The Pixel is roughly the size of the iPhone 7. Pixel XL mirrors the size of the iPhone 6+. For users accustomed to the iPhone 6, the Pixel is a better experience. For those with larger hands or prefer bigger screens, the Pixel XL will provide a more optimal experience. The overall verdict was that size did not matter much in terms of the Pixel and Pixel XL user experiences.
TOUCH BUTTON ON THE BACK:
The button on the back received a lot of attention because it was a new, different feature for security and unlocking. Surprisingly, when playing around with the Pixel, I did not find it to be very engaging. The back button experience was marred by the giant lock attached to the phone. However, this design decision is actually brilliant on Google's part. The user does not need to constantly be reminded about phone security and having a "secret key" in allows the user to feel secrecy, cool, and exclusive.
USER INTERFACE:
The Pixel's User Interface is very similar to that of the iPhone. There are four buttons at the bottom menu, which expand into a larger menu. The search bar is located at the top.
The Pixel's Menu is not the best user experience. When the menu pops open, the user is greeted by loads on loads of Google Apps. Although having all Google Apps available is great in terms of usability, the information overload is unpleasant.
GOOGLE ASSISTANT/ALLO:
Google Assistant is accessible through the Search feature. I found this to be far more usable than Siri and enjoyed the fact that it provides possible search keys and trends. Allo is also a very functional app, so having the Assistant/Allo available to the user's fingertips is an optimal user experience.
CAMERA:
The Camera is really high quality and has great zoom and menu options at the top. There are five buttons at the top, and the user may not understand what these buttons represent. Also, there is a hamburger menu on the left, which the user may not use at all. In terms of accessibility, the camera could be a lot simpler and as effective.
However, the camera certainly takes high quality pictures and makes up for the information overload by including a lo-fi Pixel Forest in their store where users had the opportunity to test the Pixel camera.
OVERALL USER EXPERIENCE:
The Pixel is a great competitor to the iPhone. Both phones are similar sizes and physically look alike. Pixel wins on the security back button feature, digital assistant accessibility, and access to Google Apps. However, the iPhone still holds steady for its camera and user interface simplicity. If Pixel can streamline the information in its menu and camera, the iPhone may have it coming.
