14 DAY TRIAL // Google is also planning to take the wraps off the new-generation Pixel devices later this year, and a new leak that took place today provides us with a closer look at what to expect.
First and foremost, it’s worth mentioning that this photo that was published by VentureBeat shows the smaller Google Pixel codenamed Walleye – the successor to the Google Pixel XL is codenamed Taimen, but most of the changes are likely to make it to both models anyway.
In terms of design, Google won’t go for anything too dramatic, and while most manufacturers, including here Samsung and Apple, are giving up on bezels, this doesn’t seem to be the case with the search engine company. Instead, the new Pixel models will feature big bezels, just like the existing models.
BoomSound audio quality
There won’t be a dual-camera configuration available on the new generation, which is more or less unexpected given that industry leaders Apple and Samsung are embracing this approach. Google Pixel XL offered the best camera at launch, but a dual-lens system appears to be more of a trend to stay close to the other flagships on the market.
The smaller refreshed Pixel will be manufactured by HTC, while LG will be in charge of the bigger model. Walleye, however, will borrow some HTC features that will definitely impress. The report claims that HTC will install front-facing stereo speakers with BoomSound quality – we’ve already praised the quality of the sound on HTC’s new U11 in our review and there’s no doubt the Pixel 2 will be mind-blowing when it comes to sound if this feature is being used.
Furthermore, it looks like Edge Sense with sensitive frames to make it possible access some features by squeezing the device could also be offered on the smaller Pixel 2.
And there’s something that won’t be offered though: a headphone jack. Just like Apple and HTC, Google plans to ditch the 3.5mm audio connector, offering instead an USB Type-C port for all purposes.