The 2019 Made By Google event just wrapped up, and Google announced everything we expected. There's a new Nest WiFi mesh system, a Nest Mini, Pixelbook Go, and, of course, the Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL.
Leading up to Pixel 4, we had a complete picture of what to expect. Google tried to head off the leaks this year, by posting a photo and confirming the name of the phone, but that plan backfired. Countless photos, videos, specification sheets, and renders have leaked online since then and were posted far and wide. We now know that the Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL go on sale today, and will begin shipping Oct. 24. You don't have to wait much longer to get your hands on Google's latest wares.
Now that everything is official, let's take a closer look at the Pixel 4.
When will it be available?
- Preorders start Oct. 15
- Orders start shipping as early as Oct. 22
You can preorder the Pixel 4 or Pixel 4 XL right now through the Google Store. Shipments arrive as early as Oct. 22.
How much will it cost?
- $799 for the Pixel 4
- $899 for the Pixel 4 XL
The base model of the Pixel 4 with 64GB of storage is priced at $799, while the same storage amount on the larger 4 XL will cost $899. You'll pay an extra $100 for the 128GB model of either version. Google found a way to keep prices in line with the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL, which launched at $799 and $899, respectively. Good on you, Google.
What will it look like?
- The two-tone look is no more.
- A new camera arrangement looks a lot like the iPhone 11's
- No notches this year
Google ditched the display notch this year, and instead increased the size of the top bezel, allowing for the cameras and sensors required for Motion Sense and Face Unlock. The two-tone look that's been a staple of Google's Pixel line is also gone, with a single color scheme on the back of the phone. There are black, white, and a limited edition orange color availed.
For the first time, the Pixel line now has two cameras. The new cameras arrangement looks similar to the iPhone 11's, with a square camera array on the back of the Pixel 4.
What about new features?
- Project Soli will allow hand gesture to control the Pixel 4
- Face unlock feature will debut
- Improved camera features
- Smarter Google Assistant
Google confirmed that Project Soli, a radar-based system, will be used in Pixel 4. Using Motion Sense, you'll be able to wave your hand over the phone on a table to mute incoming calls, switch tracks, and similar tasks.
Also included in the Pixel 4 is a facial recognition system that can be used to unlock the phone, and presumably, make purchases with Google Pay. There's not a fingerprint sensor on the Pixel 4, so it makes sense that anything you used the fingerprint reader for can now be accomplished with face unlock.
Google will take advantage of having two cameras on the Pixel 4 -- a first for the Pixel line -- by adding new exposure controls, and Night Sight is gaining the ability to photograph the stars.
Google Assistant will also see updates with the launch of the Pixel 4. Assistant appears to be smarter and more aware of how and when it's being used.
What are the specs?
Here are the official specifications, according to Google:
Google Pixel 4 specs
- Display: 5.7-inch Full HD+ Smooth Display (up to 90Hz OLED) -- Ambient EQ
- Battery: 2,800mAh
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 855, Pixel Neural Core
- Memory: 6GB RAM
- Storage: 64GB, 128GB
- Cameras: 12MP Dual-Pixel and 16MP Telephoto
- Audio: Stereo speakers
- Security: Titan M Security Module
- Features: Face unlock, Motion Sense
- OS: Android OS with three years of security and OS updates
Google Pixel 4 XL specs
- Display: 6.3-inch Quad HD+ Smooth Display (up to 90Hz OLED) -- Ambient EQ
- Battery: 3,700mAh
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 855, Pixel Neural Core
- Memory: 6GB RAM
- Storage: 64GB, 128GB
- Cameras: 12MP Dual-Pixel and 16MP Telephoto
- Audio: Stereo speakers
- Security: Titan M Security Module
- Features: Face unlock, Motion Sense
- OS: Android OS with three years of security and OS updates
Perhaps the most notable aspect of the spec sheet is that the Pixel 4 will have a 90Hz display, which should make common tasks like gaming and scrolling through your Facebook feel smoother.
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