Everything We Know About Google Pixel 2
The second iteration of Google's new Pixel line of smartphone is expected to launch in 2017.
Release
Expected in late 2017, with October a likely candidate given the original Pixel launch in October 2016.
Standard, XL and tablet?
The new Google Pixel 2 will come in the same two flavours the original did with a standard sized phone and then an XL model. However there's also talk of a tablet version of the phone. The Pixel is a replacement to Google's previous Nexus line of devices. Alleged project codenames for the three models have leaked: walleye (Pixel 2), muskie (Pixel 2 XL) and taimen (likely the tablet).
Tech Rumours
Absolutely nothing has been made official by Google at this time except to say that a new Pixel phone will be releasing in 2017. However the industry is a buzz with how Google will improve upon their debut of the Pixel, which received a favourable welcome despite some weaknesses against the iPhone and Samsung Galaxy.
• Faster chipset, better camera, higher price
With the obvious goal of cramming more power into the Pixel 2 and a better camera, there's more reason to believe Google will be going with a higher price for this new smartphone. However a higher price tag is only a rumour at the moment but it seems to be gaining ground.
• Curved screens
Curvy is where all the action is and the new Pixel 2 is rumoured to be embracing it, so expect a flashier design overall.
• Google Assistant
An improved version of Google's voice-controlled Google Assistant taking advantage of the Pixel 2's latest features, as is the likelihood of adopting the most up-to-date Android OS at the time of launch. No surprises here.
• No headphone port
The traditional headphone jack will be removed from the design, despite being at odds with previous messaging for the original Pixel. One of its selling points in fact was that it was sticking with the 3.5mm headphone jack. This came at a time when Apple drew criticism for ditching it to push another peripheral.
• Water-resistant
Not something people generally consider a must-have feature right up until the dreaded moment happens. Google wants to keep that nasty two-parts hydrogen and one-part oxygen from ruining their smartphone by accidental sink/toilet/puddle drops. It's something that is becoming a more mainstream feature of smartphones.
• Virtual Reality
Another feature that likely won't disappear is Google's commitment to virtual reality experiences as they continue develop of the Daydream VR platform. If anything this could mean an upgraded screen to QHD resolution.
We'll be keeping an eye out for more Google Pixel 2 news and rumours so stay tuned.
