Up until the release of the Pixel and Pixel XL, Google’s smartphones, although competent devices, where never a match for Samsung and Apple flagships. However, with the launch of the search giant’s branded handsets came a new era. One that saw it try to take back the Android mantle. As such an array of successors is on the horizon, with one, the Google Pixel 2 ‘Taimen’ leaking via benchmark results. Here’s what we know.
Google Pixel 2 Taimen Test Leak
Before you continue to read, it is worth noting that, there has been no official announcement by Google. Yes, many rumors are doing the rounds about the handset codenames Muskie, Walleye, and Taimen, but we know nothing for certain. As such, please take the following information with a pinch of salt!
Recently, a device with the name Taimen appeared on the database of the popular mobile benchmarking outfit Geekbench. To some, this provided the much-needed proof that there will be not two, but three Google Pixel 2 handsets. Now, you may be thinking to yourself, “This is nothing new,”, however, we beg to differ. Becuase this time the information was spotted on the Primate Labs website, in the form of Geekbench 4 test results database.
The Test Results
Right now, there’s no doubt that the Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus are the most powerful Android handsets we’ve ever seen. However, these two devices are available now, while there’s no information available about a Google Pixel 2 launch. As for the test leak results, it shows, that yet again, the search giant, is working on at least one incredibly powerful device.
How does it compare to the S8’s? If accurate the results show that it’s in line with the Samsung’s flagships especially in single core CPU testing. It’s worth noting at this point that both devices use Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 835 chipset. Although, it is also interesting to note that this is probably a Google Pixel 2 prototype, so its performance may not be up to scratch.
As for how it compared to other on sale and rumored to have been tested Android handsets. Here’s how its test leak results looked against those of the Galaxy S8, Sony Xperia XZ Premium, and One Plus 5. All of which use or are rumored to use the Snapdragon 835.
- Google Taimen: Single Core: 1804 | Multi Core: 6284
- Galaxy S8: Single Core: 1929 | Multi Core: 6084
- Xperia XZ Premium: Single Core: 1943 | Multi Core: 5824
- OnePlus 5: Single Core: 1963 | Multi Core: 6687
So, what do the above figures tell you about the Google pixel 2 Taimen? It shows that for single core testing it lagged behind its competitors, however, not enough to cause concern. Additionally, there’s the multi-core results, which show the handset pulling in respectable scores against everything, but the OnePlus 5.
Taimen Specs Running Android O
According to the specs being reported by those who claim to know, the Google Pixel 2 Taimen, will sport the Snapdragon 835. Which will run at 1.9Ghz and be supported by 4GB of RAM. As for storage, 64, 128, and 256GB options are possible, however, will an SD card slot be available? No one has given any indication yet, but, as last year’s handsets did not have one, maybe it’s a no.
Regarding the OS, the tested version was running Android O, so it’s likely this will come installed out of the box. Again, this is an assumption; we will bring you confirmation on this and other details as we discover them.
How Much?
Last year’s Pixels entered the market as Google’s only devices, as such they were both premium devices. Both had base 32GB models with prices starting at $649 and 769 respectively. As such, any rumors which suggest the Google Pixel 2 and it’s siblings could cost less, are likely false.
While we do not have a definite price guide for what could be a three Google handset lineup this year. It is almost inevitable that consumers will be asked to pay more. Rumors are suggested $699 for the base model and as much as $800 for a Google Pixel 2 XL. As for the third, Pixel 2 XXL, maybe $900+?
Release Date
Late last month reports surfaced which suggested Google was already testing it’s 2017 flagships. This news sparked rumors which spread like wildfire, suggesting a handset launch was closer than people thought.
Now, the rumor mill is predicting a Google I/O announcement, with details of the handset shared at the event. Will that happen? Who knows, however, it is more likely that October is again the month of choice. In doing so, an announcement can be made, and the launch takes place before Christmas. That would be perfect for taking advantage of holiday sales. Although, the last year’s handset availability issues must be averted this time around.
