Ahead of the launch next week, several hardware features of the upcoming Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL have leaked online.
With one week to go until the impending Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL launch, speculation is gathering on what the search giants next offering will bring. Android Authority spoke to an exclusive source about the device, which was apparently verified independently using an internal document. Those pesky whistle-blowers!
The hardware in the Google Pixel 2 will include a Snapdragon 835 processor and either 64 or 128GB internal storage. RAM was not mentioned, though we expect 4GB for the smaller handset and 6GB in the Pixel 2 XL. The source for Android Authority told them that the handsets will include panels with a screen-to-body ratio between 80 and 85%, which contradicts previous rumours. The Pixel 2 will have a standard FullHD display, while the Pixel XL 2 gets a QHD panel and ‘wide colour gamut’. We’re reading into that last bit as HDR.
Previous rumours have also suggested that Google could be ditching the headphone jack in new Pixel handsets and this seems to be confirmed here. The Pixel XL 2 will include dual stereo speakers on the bottom, with a single USB-C port for connectivity. Some markets may also include a pair of USB-C headphones in the box, although this is yet to be confirmed.
The source had a few interesting things to say about the devices’ camera prowess, which was a major talking point among the media. Apparently, the Pixel 2 will ship with optical image stabilisation on both the front and rear shooters. Google is referring to them both as ‘Pixel Cameras’ and they will use a custom imaging chip designed by the company. Both sensors will come with a wider colour gamut, which no doubt means 10-bit processing similar to the LG V30.
Both handsets will ditch SIM cards altogether and use E-SIM technology, allowing easier switching of network operators. Battery life on the Pixel 2 is 2,700mAh, while the Pixel 2 XL gets a hefty 3,520mAh. Other features include IP67 water and dust resistance, pressure sensitive edges like the HTC U11, plus a second generation Google fingerprint sensor. Android 8.0 will come as standard on both devices.