Google Pixel 2, Pixel 2 XL: Everything you need to know (photos)
Time for two new Pixels
It's been close to a year since Google released the original Pixel and Pixel XL. Now it's time for a successor. The rumor mill indicates the second-generation Pixel is set to be manufactured by HTC, while the Pixel XL will be manufactured by LG.
October unveil
Google recently confirmed it will introduce the new Pixel lineup on Oct. 4 in San Francisco, Calif. The event will start at 9am PST/12pm EST at the SFJAZZ Center. Thanks to leaks, we have an idea of what Google and partners plan to announce. However, take rumors and leaks with a dose of salt until Google steps on stage with the big reveal.
FCC leaks
Two separate Federal Communications Commission (FCC) filings for the second-generation Pixel and Pixel XL have revealed suspected details about the handsets. Separately, a notable leaker, EvLeaks, posted what is believed to be a render of the Pixel 2.
Active Edge
The Pixel 2's FCC filing showed it's set to have an HTC U11-like feature of squeezable sides to perform different phone functions. Screenshots in the filing showed the Pixel 2's squeezing functionality is called "Active Edge," and it launches Google Assistant by default.
Key specs
The Pixel 2 is believed to have a Snapdragon 835 processor, 4GB of RAM, and at least 64GB of storage. The Pixel XL 2 is rumored to have a Snapdragon 835 or 836 processor, 4GB of RAM, and at least 128GB of storage.
Several fan-made renders have been posted online, showing less bezel than the original Pixel.
Display
The second-generation Pixel is rumored to have a 5-inch 1080p (16:9) display, and the Pixel XL 2 is said to pack a bigger, 6-inch Quad HD (18:9) display provided by LG. (Image: OnLeaks)
Cameras
Unlike recent flagship launches from competitors, it looks like the Pixel will stick with a single-rear shooter. The Pixel 2 is rumored to have a 12.3 megapixel rear f/1.8 aperture camera and a 7-8 megapixel front-facing camera.
More renders
According to Android Police, the Pixel 2 is codenamed "Walleye," while Pixel XL 2 is referred to internally as "Taimen." Stunning fan-made renders have hit the web.
Android OS
Screenshots in the Pixel 2's filing showed the handset was running Android Oreo 8.0.1 and featured the navigation bar found on first-generation Pixel. Likely just a test build, Android 8.0.1 isn't available to the public yet.
Fingerprint scanner
Like the previous Pixel lineup, the Pixel 2 and Pixel XL 2 will stick with the fingerprint scanner on the rear of the devices, rumors have indicated. Case maker Olixar released an image depicting a Pixel 2.
Price and release date
It's not known when Google will release the Pixel 2 and Pixel XL 2, or how it will be priced. We'll be tracking the latest rumors and announcements.