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Google's next Pixel smartphones arrive October 4th
The next-gen Pixel smartphones will be launched on October 4th, just a day before rumors predicted, according to a new Google YouTube video (below). The search giant hasn't, naturally, revealed any details about it yet, but has made some pretty bold promises. It implies that the new models (reportedly a Pixel and Pixel XL, according to @evleaks) will have a better battery, more storage and a better camera than other models. It has even suggested that it will "understand you," no doubt a reference to Google Assistant.
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.
Google will release a new Pixel phone this year
The Pixel represents Google's first proper foray into the smartphone market, allowing the search giant to directly compete with Apple and cement Android's reputation as a premium platform. While sales have been steady, it's been particularly hard to get a hold of one due to component shortages. That hasn't dampened the company's plans to continue investing in its own smartphones, though: according to Rick Osterloh, VP of Hardware at Google, there will be a successor to the Pixel this year and will continue to carry a high price tag.
Google pulls the plug on its Pixel laptops
Although its new flagship phones have been doing brisk sales, Google's high-end, $1,299 Pixel-branded Chromebooks won't be seeing much love from the search giant in the near future. According to TechCrunch, reporting from the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona today, Google's SVP of hardware Rick Osterloh has announced the second version of the Pixel laptop will be the last of its kind.
Adieu, Chromebook Pixel 2
The best Chromebook that money can buy is slowly disappearing. As VentureBeat notes, the second-generation Chromebook Pixel is now unavailable in the US, with a mere "out of stock" message displayed in the Google Store. Google has said it's "committed" to the Pixel line, but admits: "We don't have plans to restock the Pixel 2." The situation might be different outside the US -- here in the UK, the laptop is still in stock -- so act fast if you still want to buy one. Otherwise, it's time to say goodbye.
Google employee reveals a new Chromebook Pixel's due out soon
The first Chromebook Pixel wasn't exactly a huge seller, what with its hefty price tag and all, but Google's apparently still preparing to release a second version. OMG! Chrome! spotted a video of Renee Niemi, who's in charge of Android and Chrome for Work and Education, at the recent Google Teamwork event, where she revealed that the company's working on the next-gen Pixel that will soon be slated for release. Mountain View has since pulled down the video, but the publication transcribed the relevant part as follows: We do have a new Pixel coming out and it will be coming out soon. We will be selling it but I just have to set your expectations: this is a development platform. This is really a proof of concept. We don't make very many of these -- we really don't. And... our developers and our Googlers consume 85% of what we produce. But yes, we do have a new Pixel coming out.
