Google has turned over a new leaf with their latest Android. Previous phones of theirs have always been a joint venture between the tech company and an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) like LG, HTC, Samsung, and Huawei. The Nexus were a mixture of Google user interfaces and the OEM’s physical design, creating a balanced product. But now Google isn’t satisfied with just the software aspect of its phones. With the latest Pixel XL, Google has taken over it design in its bid to become a hardware company. As a result, the XL is a streamlined smartphone getting a lot of attention.
But first, let’s get something out of the way. It won’t be getting any awards for its looks. While no critic will call it ugly, the XL lacks the same sophistication as other phones on this year’s top ten lists. Its basic design gets the job done, with basic color options of black, white, and blue. How boring it is, as a design flaw, is relatively minor. Luckily, it can be fixed by a premium-made vinyl wrap. Pixel XL wraps can transform the droid into a carbon fiber device or a gadget carved from stone. These are only two examples of the selection of Pixel XL wraps from dbrand, a manufacturer known for their precision-cut designs. They affix to the droid perfectly, covering up boring white or black for energetic yellow or sophisticated mahogany.
The XL will also disappoint former Nexus fans with its price. While the previous line was known for its affordable price point, the Pixel has been bumped up to the next wrung. In Google’s bid to compete with the likes of Apple and Samsung, it has created a phone with a similar cost. While most understand it’s more expensive due to the premium upgrades to its user face, this new cost puts the Pixel out of reach for many droid lovers on a budget.
Its new price tag means that Google can have the latest Android tech powering their smartphones. The Pixel is outfitted with the latest operating system, Nougat 7.1, and it’s backed by the newest 821 Snapdragon processing chip. With enough RAM to power most apps, with a possible 128GB of memory and unlimited access to cloud storage, it’s a pretty capable phone worth the money.
Its 12-megapixel camera is outfitted with phase detection autofocus and laser detection autofocus, which lets its users take impressive pics in low lighting. It’s also been enhanced with 4K video, which means it’s able to keep up with the legendary iPhone. Meanwhile Google is fighting for top marks by updating its Assist system, an intuitive and fun way to navigate searches and apps.
All in all, the tech company’s new foray into hardware is proving successful. With the latest droid tech beefing out its specs, most people would find the XL a high-performing phone that’s perfect for daily use. With an expertly designed wrap attached, it can be a beautiful one too. It might just be the best phone released this year.
