Google plans to release new Pixel smartphone in 2017

Google plans to release a second-generation Pixel smartphone as follow-up to the first version released in October 2016, Google hardware boss Rick Osterloh confirmed at Mobile World Conference this week.

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"There is an annual rhythm in the industry. So, you can count on us to follow it." Osterloh reportedly told Android Pit at a closed meeting with reporters. "You can count on a successor this year, even if you don't hear a date from me now."

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Osterloh didn't provide specifics on the feature set of the Pixel 2 or when it may be released. However, his confirmation could bring relief to Pixel fans to know the smartphone wasn't a 2016 exclusive.

"Pixel stays premium," Osterloh reportedly added, indicating Google won't enter the budget smartphone market like giants Apple, Samsung, and others. He said there are too few current-generation Pixel devices to meet consumer demand.

Google wasn't immediately available for comment.

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