For a few months now, we have been hearing quite a bit about Google working on the Pixel successor. By now, we have already learnt about the superior camera on the Pixel 2, and the latest reports that come in hint at the smartphone sans the headphone jack. Following the trend that a few brands have picked up, if the reports are to be believed, the Pixel successor will ditch the 3.5mm audio jack. Ironically, when the iPhone 7 was launched, Google touted the jack’s inclusion in Pixel as a key feature over the iPhone’s offerings.
Now, this report comes in from 9To5Google, and some internal Google document the publication claims to have got its hands on. While the report does not disclose the nature of the document, or quote anything that suggests the jackless Pixel 2, it says that “the language used [in the document] presents the removal of the jack as a matter of fact.” Now, even though this information is claimed to be sourced from a Google document, it would only be wise to take it with a pinch of salt, considering, this may just be an idea that the company’s has for its next flagship.
Besides, up till now we have learnt that the next generation Google smartphone will boast a better camera and processor, along with possibly carrying a pricier tag than the current version that starts at Rs 57,000. Recently, at an event in MWC 2017, Google’s head of hardware Rick Osterloh also confirmed that the next Pixel smartphone will remain in the premium segment as seen with the Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones.
Coming back to the camera on the Pixel 2, Google is aiming to make low-light photography even better. It is expected that while there won’t be a boost in megapixel count, there will be insertion of certain subtle features that will make even the standard megapixel count deliver maximum results. To recall, the original Pixel features a 12.3-megapixel rear camera with a 1.55μm pixels and f/2.0 aperture. It also comes with PDAF and laser detection auto-focus technology. Up front is an 8-megapixel camera with f/2.4 aperture and fixed focus. While the current Pixel smartphones do not offer a dual-camera setup, we could expect the feature to make its debut in the next versions.
Additionally, under the hood, it is expected that Google will use improved chipsets from two different manufacturers. There have been rumors that the Pixel 2 will come in two variants, similar to Pixel and Pixel XL. While some reports hint at Snapdragon 83X chipset, others have suggested that Google will opt for an Intel processor. It was also reported that Google was collaborating with MediaTek for its Pixel 2.
A report on 9to5Google suggests that Google has also been working on developing a custom chipset for a test device, but it is not certain if the same chipset will power the Pixel 2. Furthermore, the next Pixel smartphone is likely to be water resistant, unlike the current Pixel and Pixel XL. Coming to the pricing of the next set of Pixel smartphones; based on the reports, the Pixel 2 is expected to have at least a $50 increase in its price. The original Pixel smartphones cost $649 onwards in the US so that suggests the Pixel 2 could cost close to $700. The Pixel 2B, on the other hand, with its lower specs and features, will naturally cost lesser.
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