Google Pixel 3 Rumours: Everything We Know so Far
Google’s first generation Pixel smartphone rolled out in 2016, followed by the Google Pixel 2 in 2017. Now we’re eagerly anticipating the Google Pixel 3, which is expected to officially launch this month (October 2018).
Owing to social media’s power to circulate information within the blink of an eye, we’ve seen too much information leaked about the Google Pixel 3, even by the standards of the mobile industry in 2018. The main reason being a pre-production shipment being stolen and ending up in the black market. If you’ve missed the action back then, we’ve got all the information you need here.
Release Date of the Google Pixel 3
Google has sent out invitations to the people who will attend the official unveiling of the Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL at the “Made by Google” 2018 Event. The occasion always revolves around the Pixel line and the event was held on October 4 previously. The company made a change this year by announcing it on October 9. The event kicks off at 4PM UK time and like always, the action will be live-streamed.
It is too early to predict when the smartphone will hit the shelves. However, as previous versions became available for purchase on October 19 and 20, we can expect it to be around the same date.
Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL Price
The actual price of the phone is a myth at this point, but some leaked sources suggest it’ll hit the shelves at $649 and the XL will cost $100 more.
What does the phone look like?
The design of the Google Pixel 3 and 3 XL are debatable, because of the conflicting rumours throughout the year. Since we’ve got exposed to more leaks on it than ever before, let’s round it up here…
Initially, the rumours suggested we’ll be getting another design like the Oppo Find X or the Vivo NEX, but leaked images show otherwise. The Pixel 3 XL features a notched display like many other smartphones released this year, but the non-XL Pixel 3 has a traditional look.
According to the leaks so far, the back of Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL both have a centrally mounted fingerprint scanner and a single camera.
What can the Google Pixel 3 do?
Pixel phones are Google’s flagship devices which means you’ll get the best of android. This year is Android Pie, so we can expect to enjoy the OS’s latest features like gesture controls and adaptive battery. We can also expect the Active Edge functionality included so that you can squeeze the sides of the phone to activate Google Assistant without tiring yourself with “Ok Google” every time you need its assistance.
Some leaks show the 3 XL being put on a wireless charging pad. This would be something totally new to the flagship models but it’s not clear if the non-XL Pixel 3 will also have this feature. To know for sure, we’ll have to wait till October.
On the audio side, as per the leaks we are getting wired Pixel Buds. We saw the wireless version last year but it seems Google has decided its time to go wired by using a USB-C connector.
Google Pixel 3 XL vs Apple iPhone Xs Max
We have entered an era where the population can be divided into iPhone fans or Android fans. You cannot complete an analysis without comparing the latest devices from each manufacturer. The iPhone Xs and Xs Max are the latest smartphones by Apple and since the Google Pixel 3 XL is being released after, everyone has high hopes it will be much better than its arch-rival.
Whilst the iPhone Xs Max boasts a super large screen (bigger than all the iPhones to date), the Pixel 3 XL leaked images and data prove that Apple might face tough competition. Below are some facts to consider:
iPhone Xs Max:
- Screen size: 6.5 inch
- Front: Notch integrates face ID camera
- Display: 6.5 diagonal edge to edge, 2,688 x 1,242 px resolution
- Processor: A12 Bionic
- OS: iOS 12
- Frame: Stainless steel
- Camera: rear dual 12 MP
- Wireless charging: Yes
- Phone unlock: Face ID
- RAM: 3 GB
Google Pixel 3 XL:
- Screen size: 6.7 inches or 6.2 inches (hypothesis)
- Front: Notch dual cameras mean better selfies
- Display: unknown
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 845
- OS: Android 9 Pie
- Frame: Glass back
- Camera: rear single 12 MP
- Wireless charging: Yes
- Phone unlock: Rear fingerprint sensor
- RAM: 4 GB
The above is a brief comparison of the two smartphones that are known to be the biggest rivals of 2018. Since Google’s flagship phone hasn’t been officially unveiled, the iPhone Xs is doing pretty well in the market. Analysts suggest that the XS Max is in more demand in comparison to the standard iPhone Xs.
Android diehard fans await the official unveiling of Google Pixel 3 series with bated breath. Although leaks have already spoiled the suspense many fans are still optimistic about it.
In terms of the camera, leaked images show that the Google Pixel 3 and 3 XL might get a new redesigned app, which will have a carousel like interface instead of the hamburger menu that will allow you switch between different modes.