New Google Pixel 2 Renders Revealed

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An exclusive set of Google Pixel 2 renders from MySmartPrice and OnLeaks have been revealed. With the Google Pixel 2 and the Pixel 2 XL likely being announced sometime in October, it makes sense that more and more leaks are coming out about these two flagship devices. Manufacturers and case makers are starting to get CAD files and, inevitably, a few of them will leak in the lead up to the official launch.

These Google Pixel 2 renders are probably the best look at the rumored devices we have had to date. OnLeaks is a pretty well-established smartphone design leaker and anything from them can usually be trusted. So, let’s dive in and take a look at some of the features shown on in these Google Pixel 2 renders.

Goodbye Bezels

The trend of nearly bezel-less devices seems to be the hot thing in smartphones this fall. We have seen reduced bezels in the iPhone 8 leaks, Galaxy Note 8 leaks, and now the Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL leaks. Of course, Samsung already launched the sleek-looking Galaxy S8 and S8+ earlier this year. I, for one, am a huge fan of reduced bezels. The Google Pixel 2 still has larger bezels than I would like to see but the Pixel 2 XL seems to have taken bezel reduction pretty seriously. In either case, they are both great steps forward in the aesthetics department.

No Dual Camera Sensors

This detail has been very consistent among the Pixel 2 leaks over the past few weeks. It’s somewhat disappointing considering that nearly every flagship smartphone coming down the pipeline this fall is rumored to have dual camera sensors. Of course, two camera sensors doesn’t automatically make for a better camera. The software that operates the camera is just as important. Still, it’s hard to imagine a world where Samsung and Apple release bad dual camera sensors. This is one area where the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL will fall short of the competition.

No Headphone Port

This is a new detail that had not been included in previous Google Pixel 2 renders. The renders we have seen up until now have shown a 3.5mm headphone port. The case render that we saw also included a cut out for a headphone port. As an owner of a beautiful set of headphones with a 3.5mm jack I’m hoping that this isn’t true. If these renders are accurate, however, then this would be another nail in the coffin for the 3.5mm standard. With both Apple and Google moving away from 3.5mm headphone ports it’s hard to imagine that other manufacturers will continue to fight the good fight. This does seem a little odd considering that Google took a public shot at Apple for removing the headphone port during the last release cycle. Of course, a lot can change in a year. If you’re looking to pick up a Pixel 2 or Pixel 2 XL then you may want to start setting aside some money for a nice set of Bluetooth headphones.

Front-Facing Stereo Speakers

While we mourn the (alleged) death of the 3.5mm headphone port, we can at least take solace in the fact that Google appears to be improving the audio and video experience on their device with stereo speakers. This would obviously make enjoying a YouTube video on your phone a much nicer experience. This is one rumor from the new Google Pixel 2 renders that we can get behind. Although… You know what’s nicer for enjoying audio than stereo speakers? A really great pair of headphones!

Other Thoughts

None of this information is detailed in the new Google Pixel 2 renders but we always enjoy speculating around here. My initial thought regarding the removal of the 3.5mm headphone port is that this makes it much easier for Google to make the new devices water and dust resistant. If the headphone port is removed and Google doesn’t offer a dust and water resistant device then this could be a major step backward.

The Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL should launch with the Snapdragon 836 which would be a nice step up from the 835 chipset that is rumored to be coming in the Samsung Galaxy Note 8.

We shouldn’t have to wait long to find out if these new Google Pixel 2 renders are accurate or not. The rumored reveal date of these devices is sometime in October and we should get to see plenty of leaks before then. For now, what are your thoughts? Can you live without a 3.5mm headphone port or will you look elsewhere for a new smartphone this fall?

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