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Google Pixel 3 XL hands-on in Hong Kong -- three days early
With some smartphones, it seems inevitable that the closer the launch date, the more leaky they get. Google's upcoming Pixel 3 series -- due to launch in New York next Tuesday -- is no exception, and I'm speaking as someone who had just gotten up close and personal with a Pixel 3 XL earlier today. I borrowed the phone from Hong Kong mobile shop WahPhone Digital, which is actually offering this fully-boxed device for a mere HK$15,880 or around US$2,030. Ouch.
Google Pixel 3 XL leak hints at a deep display notch
Google's rumored (but really, expected) Pixel 3 XL may have become much more tangible. An XDA forum goer has posted photos of what appears to be a test unit for the Android P flagship, and it largely supports earlier leaks, including the edge-to-edge screen -- yes, there's an unusually deep notch with two front cameras. The rear is less polarizing, but the curvier-than-usual shape suggests there might be a glass back, or at least something slightly more fanciful than on Pixel 2 devices.
Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL hands-on: More than the sum of their parts
Just like clockwork, Google officially revealed its Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL today. And just like clockwork, Google gave the rest of the smartphone industry reason to be concerned. I spent a few moments playing with both of the new devices and couldn't help but get almost irrationally excited about them -- a rare feat considering just how thoroughly these two phones have been leaked over the past few months. My excitement has less to do with the hardware, though -- by most measures, the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL are exactly what you'd expect a pair of high-powered phones to be in 2017. What seems more fascinating is how good Google's Android smartphones can be because of how much control the company has over the process now.
Google's 2017 Pixel XL may pack a squeezable body
For all the buzz surrounding Google's next Pixel phones, there hasn't been much talk of what they would actually look like beyond generic hints. However, you might be getting a much better glimpse at the future flagship. Android Police has obtained leaked info that it says is detailed enough to produce a 3D render of the sequel to the Pixel XL, codenamed "Taimen." The LG-made device reportedly borrows the styling cues of the original phone, but packs a G6-like 6-inch, 2:1 ratio display (here AMOLED instead of LCD) with a minimal bezel. More importantly, it would include a squeezable frame akin to HTC's U11 -- you'd give your phone a firm grip to interact with Google Assistant. That sounds about as gimmicky as it does on the U11, but we'd want to try it ourselves before delivering a verdict.
Google's Pixel phones make their debut
For years, the Nexus mobile range has been synonymous with a "pure" Android experience. No more. Google just announced the Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones developed in-house that the company hopes will redefine the Android platform. Pitched as "the first phone with Google Assistant baked in," the devices are focusing on that, plus photos, storage, communications and VR (they're also the first phones built for use with Google's $79 Daydream VR headset.) The phones will be available for pre-order starting today, however -- at least at first. For now, the only US carrier selling them directly will be Verizon. Otherwise, you can buy the device unlocked (via the Google Store or other retailers) or for use with Google's Project Fi service. The price starts at $649, and you can have one in "Quite Black," "Really Blue" or "Very Silver."
Leaked Google Pixel phones might look familiar
In just a couple of weeks, we could have our first official look at Google's renamed flagship phones, so brace yourself for leaks and unofficial revelations. Take for instance, these images posted by Android Police. They apparently show the Pixel and the Pixel XL, and they do look like the computer render of the phone that leaked earlier, as well as the device Nest used in a new commercial.
