While Google is widely expected to launch its next-generation Pixel smartphones in October, we haven’t really come across a specific date. Until now that is. Google has put up a big billboard in Boston, which hints at a launch event on October 4. As rumored, the smartphones expected to be launched include the Pixel 2 and Pixel XL 2.
Spotted by droid-life, the billboard doesn’t really reveal much except the “G” logo, October 4 date, and the tag line – “Ask more of your phone”. The October 4 date however is contrary to previous leaks that hinted at an October 5 date. Last year too Google launched its first-generation Pixel smartphones in the US on October 4.
There have been a lot of speculations around who is developing this year’s Pixel devices. The original Pixel and Pixel XL were built by HTC. This year, reports claim that the Pixel 2 will again be developed by HTC, while the larger Pixel XL 2 will be manufactured by LG.
Based on what we have come across so far, the Pixel 2 smartphones are expected to be powered by Qualcomm’s yet-to-be-announced Snapdragon 836 SoC. But recent reports state that the chipset could be Snapdragon 835 instead paired with 4GB of RAM. It is rumored to feature a native storage of 64GB along with support for external storage. Last year’s Pixel devices were powered by a Snapdragon 821 SoC.
Other expected features include improved water and dust resistant capabilities. In terms of camera, latest leaks hint at the smartphones’ cameras boasting EIS (electronic image stabilization) support. EIS will help users take more stable photos and also help in low-light photography. The devices are also expected to have the Always-On display, as well as a USB Type-C adapter in the retail package.
Google Pixel 2 is said to feature a 4.97-inch full HD OLED display, while the Pixel XL 2 will feature a 5.99-inch QHD OLED display. Further, the smartphones are said to come with a squeezable frame as seen on HTC U Ultra. On the software front, it goes without saying that Google’s second-generation smartphones will run the latest Android 8.0 Oreo out-of-the-box.
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