Google Pixel 3 Officially Announced After Months of Rumours
The Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3XL Have Finally been revealed! But are they what we’ve all been hoping for?
Given that Google are competing amongst other smartphone giants it would seem that they haven’t aimed to astound with the latest models of the Pixel range. However, whilst there are no headline-grabbing features when it comes to all round performance it certainly isn’t going to disappoint customers looking for a reliable smartphone.
Google has promised that the new range is “the world’s most helpful smartphone with the best camera”. It may be early days when it comes to determining if that claim stands up. But here’s what we know about the two models so far!
Google Pixel 3
Pros:
- Dual front-facing speakers
- Expansive 5.5” screen
- Machine-Learning 12.2MP camera
- Competitive pricing
- Robust AI software
Cons:
- No headphone jack or SD card slot
- Small battery size
- Only 4GB of RAM
The new 5.5-inch android boasts a colour-rich large screen which is still one hand friendly. While there isn’t much to get excited about feature-wise, the real appeal to the Pixel 3 is undeniably the camera.
The 12.2MP rear-facing camera and the two front-facing 8MP cameras may not boast high specs, but don’t let that fool you. Thanks to the snappy machine-learning software Google may just be right in their claim to have manufactured the best smartphone camera. The wide-angle optimised front facing camera is perfect for anyone looking to get the perfect selfie group shots.
Customers who are looking to upgrade from previous Pixel models will enjoy a more expansive screen and the machine-learning camera although the aesthetic of the phone doesn’t vary much from the Pixel 2.
Whilst the Pixel 3 may not look all that different, completely new materials have been used including soft-touch Corning Gorilla Glass 5. The glass coating may make the model susceptible to more damage, yet it boosts the LTE connection and optimises the device for wireless charging.
Available colours: Black, White and and ‘Not Pink’ (which is actually pink despite Google’s strange choice of wording).
UK Prices: 64GB model – £739, 128GB model – £839.
US Prices: 64GB model – $799, 128GB model – $899.
Google Pixel 3XL
Pros:
- Improved front-facing stereo speakers
- Plenty of power
- Colourful display with QHD 1440 x 2960 resolution
- The 12.2MP camera is brilliant
- One-handed use
- Fingerprint scanner
- Supports wireless charging
Cons:
- No headphone jack
- Dated design
- Smaller 3430mAh battery compared to previous models
- 4GB of RAM
Whilst the Pixel 3XL looks almost identical to its predecessor in terms of appearance, the major changes are inside. Google opted for subtle design tweaks allowing for the real changes to be made to the software. You’ll still see the notch at the top of the screen, yet you’ve still got plenty of room to scroll on the tall 6.3-inch OLED display.
For those who enjoyed the stereo system on the 2XL, the audio has only got better from the front-facing stereo speakers which boast 40% more power.
Unlike with other XL smartphone models, you will still be able to hold and use the device with just one hand. The back of the 3XL has a cleaner matte rubberised finish which will optimise the grip whilst keeping the rear surface finger print and smudge free.
Don’t be put off by Google’s decision to only include one rear camera. Whilst other flagships are offering two or even three rear cameras, Google has got a little more inventive with the new design. The 3XL will include a ‘Top Shot’ feature which allows users to automatically capture multiple shots for the user to pick from.
For the perfect selfies you can also blur the background for the ideal shot or even opt for a pop of colour for a truly striking shot. For group shots, the wide-angle adjustable lens has you covered.
Available colours: Black, White and the all new ‘Not Pink’ model.
UK Prices: 64GB model – £869, 128GB model – £969.
US Prices: 64GB model – $899, 128GB model – $999.
Final Verdict
So far, the future looks promising for the Pixel 3 and 3XL, whilst they have made some notable improvements on former models there may not be enough to persuade Google Pixel customers to upgrade. Yet, without sufficient time to test the camera’s capability it’s too early to say if Google’s claims really hold up! So, stay tuned for more updates as we get the final verdict on the two models!
Images © Google