We now know that the Google Pixel 2 will be manufactured by Taiwan’s HTC, the same company that built the 2016 Pixel and Pixel XL. However, the details of the company behind the bigger Pixel 2 XL remain unclear, but word has it that LG will be in charge of the phablet.
According to a new listing on the FCC, the Google Pixel 2 will carry model number NM8G011A. This does not only confirm the device has received an OK from the body, it also means the Pixel 2’s release is drawing closer. While still on the same matter, here are the top 5 changes that are reportedly being lined up for the 2nd-generation Pixel phone.
All-round improvements
Being the successor to a 2016 phone, the Google Pixel 2 will without a doubt carry all-round changes. Since the release of the Pixel, we have had new camera technologies pop up, better chipsets and a new OS is about to be released. All of these are expected to appear on the new phone.
There’s word that the Pixel 2 may come with an IP68 dust and water resistant body while the camera will get new features. The phone will also get a new processor, with latest reports suggesting that it’s possible for the Snapdragon 836 to make its debut on this phone.
Squeezable edges
The listing on FCC did not just give us the model number of the Google Pixel 2, it also gave out a few details regarding the phone. One such detail mentioned something to do with “Active Edge on, squeeze for your Assistant.” From this statement, which will appear under the “Languages, Input & Gestures” settings, it implies that HTC will introduce squeezable frames to the Pixel 2.
The HTC U11 is currently the only phone with this feature and while it has received mixed reactions, the company has definitely learned a few things here and there. The Google Pixel 2 – and possibly the Pixel 2 XL – will be getting the revised edition, which should be way better than the initial version.
No headphone jack
The Google Pixel 2 might be joining the Moto Z family, HTC U series and Apple iPhone 7 Plus in ditching the 3.5mm audio jack. Alleged live pictures and renders of the phone have previously leaked showing that the phone will indeed drop the traditional jack.
If this does happen, it will definitely be met with mixed reactions. However, Google could at least ship the phone with an adapter, which should help those who are still into 3.5mm headphones.
Android 8.0.1 O out of the box
Google has been running tests on Android 8.0.0 O, but it appears that the Pixel 2 will get a newer version out of the box. This also comes from the FCC listing, where Android 8.0.1 O has been listed alongside this month’s Android security patch. But this doesn’t mean the phone will be out this month.
The company is expected to start rolling out the update to Android 8 this coming week, with the Pixel and Nexus devices leading the way.
No 32GB storage variant
For three years in a row, Google’s premium phones have not had a 16GB storage variant. The 2014 Google Nexus 6 had 32GB on the base model while the 2015 Nexus 6P got the same module. The story was the same last year, but it’s time for an upgrade.
The upcoming Google Pixel 2 will probably ship with 64GB storage on the base model, unless the company has plans to release an entry-level 32GB variant, but this is very unlikely.
Google Pixel 2 might be more expensive
Many have complained about the pricy nature of the Google Pixel phones. But it appears that the Pixel 2 will not be any cheaper. The company has always remained confident that they can compete in the premium smartphone market, which means the pricing of the Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL will remain at the same level as other premium phones.
Apparently, the Pixel 2 could see a price increase of $50 from last year’s $650 for the base model, which is not bad considering the few upgrades it brings on the table.