The Google Pixel: It’s all about the camera
Google’s attempt to create its first mobile phone, the Pixel, is starting to hit stores.
It is the company’s first phone with its own design, hardware and software. It represents an almost complete break with the partners who helped with the production of the Nexus brand of products.
The phone represents a change in appearance and performance from previous versions of Android. This includes an attractive appearance with a fast and smooth one-piece aluminum design. It is wedge shaped to keep the camera flush.
The phone isn’t called the Pixel for nothing and Google is emphasizing speed and camera clarity. Google claims it’s the highest-rated smartphone camera ever.
The camera is a good size at 12.3 megapixels. Reports indicate that it is fast with nice vibrant colors. Focus is maintained at almost all angles.
The camera provides close-ups that are refined and sharp. Shooting in Landscape mode still provides great detail and depth.
It has a front facing camera which also does a good job of capturing the image.
4K video can be recorded and the Pixel uses its own version of optical image stabilization. The feature is useful, but it’s said to not be up to par with versions on other phones.
Google promises unlimited photo and video storage.
One advantage the phone has is that it is deeply integrated with Google’s search services. The Google Assistant is part of the package. This uses machine learning and can access the company’s large searchable database.
The Google Assistant can answer any question you may have. Among the many tasks she can handle are setting reminders, looking up data, finding places to eat, setting alarms, giving directions, and translating sentences. It is supposed to get more personalized as you use it.
The Assistant is said to be more conversational than Apple’s Siri, Amazon’s Alexa or Microsoft’s Cortana. You can use your voice to talk to him in a conversational way. It also has a chat-like interface.
The innards of the phone include Android 7.1 Nougat. This is the first to have Google’s messaging service called Allo. You can also make video calls with the Duo app.
Other features include sending GIFs within the Google keyboard and, like other phones, a night light can be used to reduce eye strain. A fingerprint reader is on the back for added security. For example, you can use the reader for Android Pay.
The phone comes in two sizes, the 5.5-inch Pixel and the 6.0-inch Pixel XL. The phones are similar with the larger version coming with an improved battery and a bigger, sharper screen.
Speaking of batteries, Google claims that a quick recharge is possible in just 15 minutes. This will provide seven hours of use.
Colors include “Quite Black”, “Very Silver”, or “Really Blue”.
The $650 price is in line with many phones that have some similar features, though some may find it a bit high for this type of Android device.
The Pixel is aptly named and the camera is probably the best feature on the phone. While overall the device may not compete with Apple’s latest offerings or even the controversial Samsung Galaxy series, it is a step forward for Google and could build a following among those who want the latest and greatest in an OS based on Google. android.
