Apple recently unveiled their latest devices, the iPhone 8, 8 Plus and the highly anticipated iPhone X. Now, it’s Google’s turn to show off their next flagship smartphone – the Google Pixel 2 and XL 2. The devices are rumored to be announced later this year and Android fans can hardly wait to set their eyes on iPhone X’s direct competition.
The Pixel and Pixel Xl were the first smartphones made by Google, although it received quite a few criticisms mostly for its dull design. If you are one of those fans, here are some of the latest rumors about the search giant’s next high-end smartphones, although it’s worth mentioning that it should be taken with a grain of salt.
Google will be partnering with HTC and LG
We all know that Google has partnered with HTC to manufacture the Pixel and Pixel XL. This time around, Google is said to be in collaboration with HTC as well as LG to make the Pixel 2 and Pixel XL 2, respectively, according to Android Authority.
The search giant will only be designing the smartphones but will need third-party manufacturers to actually make the devices. In addition, Google will reportedly unveil only two devices instead of the initially reported three.
Features and specifications
It was first rumored that Google’s next flagship devices will sport the Snapdragon 836 processor, according to well-known phone leaker Evan Blass. However, this was immediately debunked by Android Police and cited that their reliable sources claimed that Qualcomm has no immediate plans on releasing the next version of the Snapdragon 835.
Android Authority also suggests that both devices will no longer sport the 3.5 mm headphone jack, which is quite disappointing, considering that Google made fun of Apple last year for removing the same from their devices.
The good news is, however, that the Pixel 2 may come with two front-facing stereo speakers, which will make up for the removal of the headphone jack.
Both devices will boast 4GB of RAM and at least 128GB of onboard storage and will have the latest Android Oreo out of the box.
Camera and water resistance
The Pixel and Pixel XL received one of the highest camera ratings when it was released last year. Major manufacturers such as LG and Samsung have built their smartphones around a dual camera setup.
However, Android Authority claimed that Google won’t be doing the same with their flagship devices.
The next Pixel smartphones reportedly will feature water and dust resistance with a rating of either IP68 or IP67.
