Google Pixel 2 rumors have been coming thick and fast in recent weeks, as the mega-corporation prepares for the release of its next-generation smartphone. Such has been the wealth of information, it has even been difficult to ascertain the number of Pixel 2 devices that will be released.
At one time, whispers indicated that there would be three separate Google Pixel 2 devices to come this year. But the latest information suggests that the Pixel XL 2 may have been shelved, while Samsung is also seeking collaboration with new manufacturers.
LG involvement
Previous Pixel releases have been constructed by LG, but the forthcoming Google Pixel 2 may involve the guidance of LG. Walleye (Pixel 2), Muskie (Pixel XL 2) and Taimen had previously been leaked as codenames of forthcoming smartphones from Google, but it is now believed that plans may have changed.
The latest Google Pixel 2 rumors instead suggest that the Taimen will actually be the Pixel XL 2, with the Muskie variant instead being dropped completely. It is also believed that LG will be involved with the manufacturing of the Pixel XL 2, after Google experienced technical difficulties with manufacturing the batteries intended for the device.
With wraparound displays becoming ever more popular and thus significant in the smartphone marketplace, it is generally believed that the Google Pixel 2 will feature this technology. It is anticipated that the Pixel 2 will have a front panel almost completely dominated by the display, with bezels conspicuous by their absence.
If Google does opt for this design it will be very much fitting into the smartphone zeitgeist, with the Galaxy S8 having already adopted this design, the Note 8 from Samsung also expected to follow suit, and the iPhone 8 being strongly tipped to feature a wraparound display as well. Even the imminent OnePlus 5 will probably have a wraparound screen.
Google Pixel 2 rumors – Display ratio
A recent benchmark listing also suggested that the XL version of the Google Pixel 2 will feature the 18:9 ratio that has been included in numerous 2017 handsets. This is deemed to be necessary for all-screen designs, meaning that the previously released Galaxy S8 and the G6 from LG have also utilized this ratio.
Other Google Pixel 2 rumors have focused on the purported benchmark performance of the device, with a GFXBench site listing a Pixel XL 2 model featuring a 5.65-inch display and quad HD resolution. Other specs to emerge from this benchmark were 4GB of RAM memory, 128GB of storage, and 12 and 7-megapixel cameras.
Processor
It has also been reported that the next generation of Google Pixel phones will benefit from the inclusion of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 835 MSM8995 chipset. The Snapdragon 835 has already been utilized in the Galaxy S8, and if it appears in the Google flagship then it will ensure extremely competitive performance.
9to5 Google has also claimed that the Pixel 2 will definitely come complete with waterproofing technology, as the search engine giant attempts to improve the functionality of its smartphone series. Waterproofing has previously been a central feature of releases from both Apple and Samsung.
Despite the fact that Apple has particularly focused on storage, and Samsung is set to offer consumers more choice in this area in 2017, Google will probably begin storage options for the Pixel 2 at 32GB. Perhaps the premium version of the smartphone series could feature more stories, but Google’s policy towards micro SD has been rather hostile, so do not expect the flexible technology to be included.
However, the latest Google Pixel 2 rumors suggest that USB Type-C will be integrated into the next generation smartphone, with a fingerprint scanner also likely to be placed on the rear of the device. Some reports have suggested that Google will consider integrating this within the glass-fronted panel, but this is perhaps unlikely considering the relatively affordable price tag of the handset. Nonetheless, it is something that has already been demonstrated by Qualcomm, so do not rule out this possibility completely.
Battery
It is believed that Google will offer a battery cell in excess of 3,000 mAh in the Google Pixel 2 generation, with a 3,500 mAh figure being quoted by some sources. This will require some nifty design by Google if the mega-corporation is to cram such a larger battery into a compact design.
Speakers and music
Another recent suggestion is that the Google Pixel 2 will focus on improvements to its speaker system, after the last generation was considered rather mediocre in this department.
It is also expected that the manufacturer will retain the 3.5mm headphone socket that was removed from the Apple iPhone series last year. This was not the most popular decision at the time, even if Apple shows no intention of reversing it, and Google can cash in on this by delivering a feature that many consumers continue to relish.
Camera
Perhaps the most important Google Pixel 2 rumor relates to the cameras to be included in the device. The photographic capabilities of smartphones are becoming ever more important, and the dual-lens snapper is also extremely popular now. LG, Huawei and Apple all embraced this technology in 2016, while Samsung is also expected to include a dual-lens camera in the forthcoming Galaxy Note 8.
Thus, many analysts have suggested that the Google Pixel 2 will feature a dual-lens camera. There have also been impressive specifications linked with this snapper, with some reports suggesting that a 16-megapixel lens, accompanied by a secondary 12-megapixel lens, is likely. This would certainly push the Pixel 2 towards the forefront of smartphone camera provisions.
Release date and price
The Google Pixel 2 will probably come bundled with the Android O operating system when it is released. And observers of the Android niche suggest that October will be a likely release date for this smartphone. Consumers can perhaps expect to pay around $50 more than the last generation, but in exchange for this additional payment they will receive a significantly improved smartphone release.
