Google just announced its first smartphone since the now-defunct Nexus line: Pixel. The new smartphone comes in two display sizes, 5 inches and 5.5 inches (Pixel XL), and is the first smartphone to come preloaded with Google’s virtual assistant, aptly named Google Assistant, as well as the latest “pure” version of Android a.k.a Nougat. It also boasts what Google claims is the best smartphone camera ever made (you hear that, Apple?).
Image and video capture seems to be a major focus with this phone. The camera scored an 89 rating from DxOMark, their highest score ever given to a smartphone camera. It boasts great burst shooting, shorter capture time than any other smartphone camera that Google tested (even in low light, with no shutter lag) and impressive digital stabilization. The Pixel also comes preloaded with Google Photos. Unlike general Google Photos users, Pixel owners also gain the benefit of enjoying unlimited Google Photo cloud storage for all photos and videos they take at their originally captured quality — for free. That means no more worrying about running out of storage, or backing up only compressed versions of your photo and video files.
Other standard phone features received modernization and Google-ization as well. The Pixel boasts an impressive battery that can get 7 hours of juice after just 15 minutes of charging with a fast-charging USB-C cable. It’s the first phone to be compatible with Daydream, Google’s upcoming VR headset (which will retail for $79). The device also comes bundled with a USB-C adapter for easy data transfer from your old phone, whether Android or iOS. And, it has a 35mm headphone jack (rejoice!).
Preorders start today at $649 for 32GB of internal storage or $749 for a 128GB; unlocked models will be available via Google’s Store. Verizon will be the exclusive carrier. The Pixel will be available in three colors (black, blue and silver).
One major downside? It isn’t waterproof.