Google’s Pure Vision of Android with Standout Camera and AI Integration
The original Google Pixel marks Google’s first official “made by Google” phone, representing its vision of an ideal Android experience. The Pixel delivers a pure, streamlined version of Android with exclusive Google Assistant features, exceptional photography capabilities, and a design focused on simplicity and functionality. In a market where smartphones are increasingly feature-packed and complicated, the Pixel stands out for offering a powerful, user-friendly experience. Here’s an in-depth look at Google’s first flagship and how it compares to its competition.
Design: Minimalist, Practical, and Unique
The Pixel features a simple, compact design that’s crafted to feel comfortable in the hand. With a glass and aluminum finish, it has a distinct look that balances aesthetics with functionality. The 5-inch AMOLED display (5.5 inches on the Pixel XL) is vivid, with sharp colors and deep blacks that make it ideal for media consumption, whether you’re watching videos or reading. The top portion of the rear is covered with a glass panel, a unique design choice that houses antennas and improves signal strength.
While the Pixel’s design doesn’t chase the bezel-free trend seen in other flagship phones, it feels solid and reliable. Available in Quite Black, Very Silver, and limited edition Really Blue, it offers a touch of personality without going overboard.
Camera: Setting a New Standard for Smartphone Photography
The Pixel’s 12.3MP camera is the highlight of the device, leveraging Google’s computational photography to deliver images with impressive clarity, vibrant colors, and excellent dynamic range. With a large f/2.0 aperture and 1.55μm pixels, the Pixel excels in various lighting conditions, capturing crisp, detailed shots even in low light.
- HDR+: Google’s HDR+ technology is enabled by default, combining multiple images to reduce noise and enhance detail, making it ideal for both high-contrast shots and everyday snaps. HDR+ ensures that colors look natural and shadows and highlights are well-balanced.
- Smartburst and Lens Blur: The Smartburst feature is perfect for capturing action shots, taking multiple images per second and letting you choose the best one. Lens Blur creates a pleasing depth-of-field effect, giving photos a professional look without the need for dual cameras.
In practical terms, the Pixel’s camera is straightforward to use. Its “point-and-shoot” functionality allows users to capture incredible shots without fiddling with settings, making it a great choice for both casual photographers and social media enthusiasts.
AI and Google Assistant: The Heart of the Pixel Experience
The Pixel is the first phone to feature Google Assistant built into the device, setting it apart from other Android devices. Google Assistant offers intelligent, voice-activated assistance for setting reminders, checking the weather, controlling smart devices, and providing answers to questions. It’s context-aware, meaning you can ask follow-up questions without needing to repeat previous information.
- Daily Use: Google Assistant can streamline daily tasks, whether you’re asking for directions, setting reminders, or sending messages hands-free. For users integrated into the Google ecosystem, Assistant makes it easy to interact with Google Calendar, Gmail, and other services.
- Productivity: Google Assistant’s smart capabilities shine in productivity settings. You can use it to set timers during work, manage your calendar, and find information quickly without switching between apps, making it an efficient tool for both work and personal life.
Software: Pure, Uncluttered Android Experience
Running on Android 7.1 Nougat, the Pixel provides a clean, pure Android experience free from the custom skins and bloatware often found on other smartphones. Google’s commitment to timely updates means Pixel users will be among the first to receive the latest Android features and security patches. For those who value simplicity and efficiency, the Pixel offers a streamlined interface that’s both responsive and user-friendly.
Everyday Performance: Fast and Smooth for Daily Tasks
Powered by the Snapdragon 821 processor and 4GB of RAM, the Pixel handles daily tasks with ease, providing a fast and smooth experience whether you’re browsing, streaming, or using multiple apps. It’s a reliable phone for everyday activities, with responsive touch input and minimal lag. The Pixel’s performance is robust enough for multitasking and gaming, making it a versatile choice for most users.
- Battery Life: The Pixel’s 2770mAh battery (3450mAh on the Pixel XL) provides all-day battery life for moderate users. Fast charging support means you can get up to 7 hours of battery life in just 15 minutes of charging, making it easy to keep the Pixel powered up even on a busy schedule.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional camera quality with HDR+ for vibrant, detailed photos
- Clean Android experience with no bloatware
- First device with Google Assistant, offering smart, context-aware assistance
- All-day battery life with fast charging support
- Sleek, minimalist design with unique glass and aluminum finish
Cons:
- No water resistance, unlike some other flagships
- Lacks expandable storage (limited to 32GB and 128GB options)
- Design may feel basic to users who prefer bezel-less displays
- No dual camera or optical zoom option
Comparison: Pixel vs. iPhone 7 vs. Samsung Galaxy S7
| Feature | Google Pixel | iPhone 7 | Samsung Galaxy S7 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 5.0” AMOLED, 60Hz | 4.7” LCD, 60Hz | 5.1” Super AMOLED, 60Hz |
| Processor | Snapdragon 821 | A10 Fusion | Exynos 8890/Snapdragon 820 |
| Primary Camera | 12.3MP | 12MP | 12MP |
| AI Assistant | Google Assistant | Siri | S Voice |
| Special Features | HDR+, Smartburst, Lens Blur | 3D Touch | Always On Display, Samsung Pay |
| Battery | 2770mAh | 1960mAh | 3000mAh |
| Operating System | Android 7.1 Nougat | iOS 10 | Android 6.0 Marshmallow |
| Price Range | $1,079 AUD | $1,079 AUD | $1,149 AUD |
Key Takeaways
- Pixel vs. iPhone 7: The Pixel’s HDR+ camera capabilities and Google Assistant make it a strong competitor to the iPhone 7. While the iPhone 7 offers the refined iOS ecosystem and 3D Touch, the Pixel provides more advanced AI integration and a camera that excels in low-light conditions. For users who prioritize a clean Android experience and Google’s ecosystem, the Pixel offers a refreshing alternative.
- Pixel vs. Samsung Galaxy S7: The Galaxy S7 features a slightly larger display and additional features like water resistance and Always-On Display. However, the Pixel’s superior camera and software integration with Google Assistant make it stand out for users seeking simplicity and AI-driven functionality. The Pixel’s faster updates and lack of bloatware also make it appealing to Android purists.
Final Rating: 4.5/5
The Verdict: The Google Pixel is a successful debut from Google, providing a flagship device that’s refreshingly focused on usability, camera performance, and intelligent AI integration. With HDR+ and Google Assistant, the Pixel’s strengths lie in its ability to capture beautiful photos and offer hands-free assistance, making it a great choice for users who value ease of use and Google’s ecosystem.
The Pixel’s streamlined design and pure Android experience set it apart from other smartphones on the market, making it a compelling option for Android enthusiasts and anyone looking for a phone that’s both powerful and user-friendly. While it lacks certain high-end features like water resistance and dual cameras, the Pixel’s focus on simplicity and intelligent features makes it a standout choice in the 2016 lineup.