The Google Pixel 2 phones have had mixed reactions since their arrival a few weeks ago, however, there is little doubt that the pair remains to be the go-to option for many diehard Android fans.
While the smaller Google Pixel 2 remains largely the same as the original Pixel in terms of looks, the Pixel 2 XL has drastic design changes that set it apart from the OG Pixel XL. Other than the reduced bezels, the 2017 model also gets a bigger 6-inch display screen, something we last saw on the 2014 Nexus 6. But that’s not all there’s to the new design of the Pixel 2 handsets.
On the edges of the Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL is where the magic lives. By squeezing either phone’s edges, you’ll be able to trigger some sort of action. Dubbed Active Edge, this is a mimic of what HTC had already given us on the U11, something that some were quick to label as a gimmick. Yes, it may be a gimmick, but Pixel 2 owners will agree that it’s a very useful gimmick.
One of the best things about being locked in a Google ecosystem is taking advantage of the Google Assistant. With the Active Edge, the Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL are giving you a way to easily summon the Assistant by simply applying a bit of pressure on the edges. It’s possible to adjust the pressure so that you don’t have to accidentally trigger the Assistant. And yes, you can still completely disable the feature if you feel like.
It’s obvious that what makes some critics term the Active Edge as a gimmick is the limited functionality. Other than summoning the Google Assistant, the only other thing squeezing the edges of a Google Pixel 2 or Pixel 2 XL handset does is to silence an incoming call, but this must also be enabled in the settings.
The lack of more functionality is a deliberate and typical Google decision. With time, the Active Edge should become more useful, probably include things like taking a quick screenshot, launching apps or even snap a photo, among other things.
Do you find the Active Edge on the Google Pixel 2 to be useful or it’s just another gimmick? Let us know in your comments below.