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Google's mini Home speaker and Pixel 2 XL leak ahead of October event (updated)
If Google was trying to keep all its October 4th announcements under wraps, it just failed in spectacular fashion. Droid Life has obtained images and details for three of the headliners, and it's clear that there are a few surprises even if you've been following the leaks pretty closely. To start, that rumored tiny Home speaker has a name and a face. It's the Google Home Mini (at left), and it's basically what you'd expect: an Echo Dot-like $49 puck that ditches the higher-quality speakers in favor of a laser-like focus on Google Assistant. You won't get to swap coverings like you can with the full-size Home, but you will have the option of an eye-catching coral color in addition to more pedestrian charcoal (black) and chalk (white/silver).
Google's Pixel 2 may also borrow HTC's squeeze controls
It's been widely rumoured that HTC and LG will be handling manufacturing duties for Google's Pixel 2 and the next Pixel XL respectively. And, it seems both brands are keen to put their stamps on the handsets. Previous leaks showed that LG is adding more display on the Pixel XL (like it did with its own flagship, the G6). Now, courtesy of a FCC filing made by HTC, we know that the smaller Pixel 2 will sport the same squeezable frame as its larger sibling (borrowed from the HTC U11).
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.
