Google Pixel Review: A Powerful and Elegant Device
The long awaited and anticipated Google Pixel is finally on the market and seems to live up to all the hype of its release. In our Google Pixel review, CPR Cell Phone Repair’s professional experts examine the features of the new device, from the battery life to the phone’s unique features.
Ready for the Big Leagues: Google Pixel Review
After years of manufacturing Nexus phones in lackluster partnerships, Google’s venture into independent manufacturing paid off big time for the tech giant. With an impressive camera, new and innovative apps that give Apple a run for their money, and a pleasing shape and design, Google’s Pixel is a home run.
Powerful Software for a Powerful Device
Google Pixel runs on Android’s Nougat 7.1, a new operating system released alongside the Pixel. A unique aspect of the new software in the operating system is a significant number of Pixel-specific changes to Nougat. Along with updates including Night Light, Android’s answer to Apple’s blue light minimizing display shift, Nougat 7.1 also includes updates specifically designed for the Pixel. These updates include:
- Pixel Launcher
- Unlimited original quality photo and video backup to Google Photos
- Smart storage that deletes old, backed-up videos and pictures automatically
- Google GIF keyboard
- Live help from Google customer service representatives with screen sharing abilities
- Quick switch adapter for easy transition from Apple or other Android devices
- Allo, Google’s messaging app, and Duo, Google’s video calling app
- And much more
Google Assistant: An Answer to Siri
Along with these new features, Google Pixel also comes with some impressive new technology advances built into Google’s search database. One of the most impressive is Google Assistant.
Different from Google Now, the company’s previous digital assistant attempt, and other artificial intelligence bots like Apple’s Siri or Amazon’s Alexa, Google Assistant is truly conversational. With both voice responses and text chat options, Assistant will use Google’s vast search database to answer your questions. In an innovative move for artificial intelligence assistant bots, Assistant uses your previous questions to build out responses for your future conversations and issues.
A Camera for All Situations
Google Pixel’s camera is touted as the best on the market, even compared to the iPhone 7 Plus. The Pixel’s high-speed camera that has the power to take sharp, in-focus, close-up shots as well as landscape shots with detail and depth. The camera even performs in dim light situations where it captures the available light and brightens the image to bring it more depth, focus, and vibrancy. The flash doesn’t wash out skin tones or make scenes too harsh. Even the front facing camera is a win with features the soften skin tones and a lens that captures faces for optimal selfies.
Google Pixel’s Sleek Design
Of course, even with all of the innovative new technology testing off the charts, we also took into consideration the shape, look, and feel of the Google Pixel. With a one-piece aluminum design, the Pixel is sleek and elegant. It fits comfortably in your hand and has just the right amount of weight to it. While the fingerprint reader’s placement on the back of the phone may be awkward at first, you can quickly adapt to the design.
A Fantastic Device, But Not Without Imperfections
The Google Pixel is a great new phone and has earned its place in the smartphone marketplace; however, there are a few negatives to note about the device. For one, the video quality isn’t quite as good as the iPhone 7 Plus. The lacking video quality is a minor irritation, but something to consider if you shoot a lot of mobile videos.
Secondly, the screen is a little dark in bright sunlight. The screen brightness on the Pixel does not turn up high enough to function without minor eye strain or shading with your hand when using it in bright sunlight. Again, something that can be only a minor annoyance, but if you live somewhere sunny or rely on a bright screen for easy reading on your phone, maybe reconsider the Pixel.
Lastly, the Google Pixel isn’t waterproof at all. Unlike many new 2016 devices, your Google Pixel will not survive a dunk in water. While it’s never really advisable to drop your phone in water, it is a little disappointing that the Pixel isn’t more water-resistant.
Google Pixel Review Verdict?
If you are looking for a compelling new alternative to Apple or are looking to upgrade your Android device, go for it. The Pixel is a great phone, and although it has a few drawbacks, all of its new bells and whistles–paired with the latest Nougat 7.1–make for a great new device.
If you are looking for a new smartphone, want advice or need repairs on an old device, come to the professionals at your local CPR Cell Phone Repair for all the latest on devices and quick, professional repairs.
