Tech enthusiasts are waiting for Google's next high-end smartphone. Google's Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones, which were released in 2016, received a lot of attention from users. According to the tech community, the upcoming phone might be equipped with high-end features; however, it may not be affordable.

Two new Pixel handsets

According to ZDNet, Google is expected to launch two new high-end handsets this year: Pixel 2 and Pixel XL 2.

The smaller of the two was code-named "Walleye," while the XL variant is referred to as "Taimen." As per reports, the search giant has teamed up with HTC to manufacture the Pixel 2 device and with LG to manufacture the premium XL 2 phablet.

As far as specs are concerned, Google Pixel 2 is expected to feature a 5-inch 1080p display with 16:9 aspect ratio, a Snapdragon 835 processor, 4GB of RAM, at least 64GB of internal storage, two front-facing stereo speakers and a squeezable frame same as HTC U11.

The XL 2 phablet is rumored to boast 6-inch Quad HD bezel-less display with 18:9 aspect ratio, a Snapdragon 835 or 836 processor coupled with 4GB of RAM, at least 128GB of storage, two front-facing stereo speakers and an always-on display mode.

Both the handsets are expected to run Google’s latest Android Oreo out of the box and feature a fingerprint scanner on the rear.

Following in the footsteps of Apple, Google is expected to ditch the 3.5mm headphone jack in the upcoming smartphones. It is rumored that the two-toned metal and rear glass design found in the original Pixel handsets will make a reappearance this year as well. The Pixel 2 XL is rumored to have a dual-lens camera, while its smaller variant might stick to a regular camera.

Possible release date and price

According to the popular tech leaker, Evan Blass aka Evleaks, the Google Pixel 2 and XL 2 smartphones will possibly see an October 5 release date. The search engine giant, however, has not confirmed any such event yet.

The first generation Pixel phones were reportedly launched in October 2016.

The current generation Pixel phone was rolled out with a launch price tag of $649 for the 32 GB variant and $749 for the 128 GB variant. The XL variant was launched at $769 for the 32 GB model and $869 for the 128 GB model. It is expected that next-gen Google Pixel handsets will either be priced more than or equal to their predecessors.

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