The Google Pixel 6 will be available in two versions: basic and pro, and will have an unique Tensor chip.
Even though the Google Pixel 6 is still a few months away from release, we already have a surprising amount of official information. Google stunned the world by announcing the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, as well as a few critical specifications. However, there are a few critical issues about which we still don't have an explanation.
The most notable feature of the next Pixel phones is a new system-on-chip called Tensor, which is supposed to provide the Pixel 6 series a slew of new AI capabilities. Expect more than simply better computational photography in the future.
Latest Google Pixel 6 news (updated August 18)
- Although the Pixel 6 is still on the way, Google has just announced a new version of its cheap phone. See what's new in our Pixel 5a review.
- The Pixel 6 will not come with a charger, according to Google. It was perhaps unavoidable considering that Apple and Samsung were the first to do so, but it would be preferable if customers had the option.
- The Tensor processor that will be used in the Pixel 6 could also be used in the Pixel Fold, which Google is reported to be working on.
Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro specs: Rumored
Google Pixel 6;
OS :Android 12
Display :6.4 inches AMOLED (90Hz)
RAM. :8GB
Storage :128GB/256GB
Rear camera :50MP (Wide) + 12MP (Ultra wide)
Front camera :8MP
Battery :4614mAh
Google Pixel 6 Pro;
OS :Android 12
Display :6.71 inches AMOLED (120Hz)
RAM :12GB
Storage :128GB/256GB/512GB
Rear camera :50MP (Wide) + 48MP (Tele) + 12MP (Ultra wide)
Front camera :12MP
Battery :5000mAh
Google Pixel 6 Tensor chip
The new Tensor SoC, which is heavily focused on AI and machine learning, is the Google Pixel 6's standout feature. The Tensor Processing Unit, for example, could take a blurry photograph of a toddler and sharpen the child's face. The TPU recognises that it is a face and adjusts accordingly.
The Pixel 6 can also use AI and computational photography to enhance video. The Pixel 6 can automatically alter the white balance and improve the dynamic range when shooting a sunset, for example.
When utilising speech-to-text, the TPU allows you to modify words on the keyboard while speaking, and the transition from speaking to typing is almost quick. Tensor can do a lot of things, and these are just a few of them.
The Tensor processor could have a future beyond the Pixel 6 series, according to Google. According to a report, Tensor will power the Pixel Fold if it turns out to be more than a rumour.
Google Pixel 6 price
(Image credit: Google )
The Pixel 6 will be a "premium-priced product," according to Google, so we should expect it to be much more expensive than the Pixel 5, which launched at $699/£599. The Pixel 6 could start at $999, like the iPhone 12 Pro, but we'll have to wait and see what happens this fall.
Rick Osterloh, Google's SVP of Devices and Services, added some explanation to the German-language Der Spiegel magazine:
"For the previous two years - and really before that - we haven't been represented in the smartphone flagship segment. However, the Pixel 6 Pro, which will be pricey, was created for people who demand the most advanced technologies... However, the Pixel 6 belongs in the upper echelon and is capable of competing with similar items. It's what I'd describe as a "mainstream premium product.""
Both Apple and Samsung have chosen to sell their phones at a lower base level – the iPhone 12 small is $699, while the Galaxy S21 starts at $799. This time, however, it's evident that Google is going for a different tier.
Google Pixel 6 cameras
The Google Pixel 6 will have both a main sensor and an ultra-wide camera, according to reports. A 4X optical-zoom telephoto lens is included in the Google Pixel 6 Pro. Google also claims that the main wide-angle sensor now lets in 150 percent more light, but it doesn't elaborate. Based on finds within the code of the newest version of the Android Camera app, one probable leaked spec claims that the main camera on both phones will use the 50MP Samsung GN1 sensor.
The big news, though, looks to be all about Tensor and how Google's better computational photography would boost both still photographs and films.
Google has announced that it will be making modifications to the computational engine that powers its phones' cameras, with the new features set to debut in the autumn with the Pixel phones. Google claims it's working with image experts to improve the accuracy of its cameras' photographs of people of colour. That involves tweaking the Auto White balance to prevent over-brightening of darker skin tones and establishing more accurate detection for different types of hair so that hair stands out more from a photo's background.
Furthermore, the Android12 Beta code mentions that the Pixle 6 Pro will include a specific "p21 fronmmt setup" feature that will not be available on the standard phone. According to 9to5Google, this could be a reference to the Pixel 6 Pro's ability to take 4K selfie films.
Google Pixel 6 design and colors
The design of the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro is the most noticeable feature. Both Pixel phones have a two-tone design with a prominent black rectangular camera bar across the top of the phones' rears.
Pink, bluish-gray with a faint yellow accent, and black models with a light-gray top accent hue are among the Pixel 6's colour options. The Pixel 6 Pro is available in three colours: black-on-gray, white with a cream or soft slate accent bar, and pale orange with a stronger orange accent.
The majority of the glass back appears to be matte, while the area above the camera bar appears to be brighter and glossier.
The Pixel 6's front is almost entirely made of screen, with a centred hole punch cutout for the selfie camera. It's also nice to see how tiny the display's bezels are.
Another welcome change is that Google has ditched the Pixel 5's under-display earpiece in favour of a more traditional earpiece speaker on the Pixel 6. The speaker has been criticised for being extremely loud and leaking sound.
Another welcome change is that Google has ditched the Pixel 5's under-display earpiece in favour of a more traditional earpiece speaker on the Pixel 6. The speaker has been criticised for being extremely loud and leaking sound.
Google Pixel 6 display
The Google Pixel 6 will have a 6.4-inch full HD+ display with a refresh rate of 90 frames per second. The Pixel 6 Pro has a bigger 6.7-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate. We would have preferred a 120Hz panel on the smaller Pixel 6, but it's understandable that Google would want to distinguish the two phones.
Google Pixel 6 fingerprint reader
We're thrilled to reveal that the Pixel 6 will have an under-display fingerprint scanner instead of a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor. This should make unlocking the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro a lot easier. However, we don't know if the sensor is an optical scanner or uses ultrasonic technology.
Google Pixel 6 Battery
The battery life of previous Pixels has been an issue. In our battery test, the Pixel 5 lasted for 9 hours and 29 minutes on its default 90Hz mode, which is below average for a smartphone with a 4,000 mAh battery. With the Pixel 6, Google only promises "all day" battery life, which is a bit of a stretch.
For the Pixel 6, Google may opt for a larger battery. According to recent reports, the Pixel 6 Pro would include a 5,000 mAh battery to power its enormous display. According to Jon Prosser, the Pixel 6 will have a 4,614 mAh battery, which is a significant upgrade over the Pixel 5.
Another rumour is that the Google Pixel 6 will gain faster wireless charging thanks to a new Pixel Stand in the works. Thanks to fans in the stand that keep the pad and phone cool, the new Pixel Stand could enable speedier charging.
Google Pixel 6: Will there be a charger?
Another issue with battery life and charging that has suddenly become crucial for forthcoming phones like the Pixel 6 is whether or not it will come with a charger.
When Apple sold all four iPhone 12 models without chargers in the box last fall, it made history as the first phone manufacturer to do so. Apple claims that the move is better for the environment, and while several competitors scowled at Apple's choice, they too followed suit. Samsung also excludes a charger from the Galaxy S21 variants.
As a result, it shouldn't come as a huge surprise if the Pixel 6 comes with nothing more than a USB-C charging cord. Start stockpiling those power bricks just in case, because this industrial trend appears to be here to stay.
According to a report from The Verge, this appears to be the truth, with Google emphasising the fact that most customers already have USB-C chargers. However, even if the Pixel 6 doesn't come with a charger by default, Google might be better off allowing users to purchase one separately so they can take use of the expected 18W fast charging mechanism.
There's good news if you think charging your phone with wires is too old-fashioned. According to OnLeaks, the Pixel 6 will once again support wireless charging. It's unclear how fast it'll happen.
Google Pixel 6: What we want
Not only will we be saturated with current phones like the Galaxy S21 by the time the Pixel 6 releases, but Apple will almost certainly have released the iPhone 13. (There may also be additional Samsung phones, such as a new Galaxy Z Fold variant.) With such fierce competition, Google will have its work cut out for it to make the Pixel 6 stand out.
Here's how we think Google will accomplish it.
Setup with three cameras
With three back cameras swiftly becoming the industry standard (at least in flagship models), Google's Pixel phones stand out as an oddity with only two. With a trio of cameras — a main shooter, telephoto, and ultrawide camera combination — the Pixel 6 Pro appears to be following similar pattern. Plus, it will maintain the Pixel's status as one of the greatest camera phones.
Display refresh rate of 120Hz
The 90Hz refresh rate on the Pixel 5 is fantastic, but a 120Hz refresh rate would be even better, and we'd love to see that on the Pixel 6. That faster refresh rate will really take games up a notch, especially with services like Microsoft's Xbox Cloud Gaming (previously known as xCloud) bringing big-budget game streaming to phones.
HDMI compatibility
We understand Google's desire to encourage users to purchase a Chromecast, but there's no reason why the Pixel 6 can't output HDMI video via a USB-C to HDMI adapter. It's quite useful to be able to connect your phone to a TV in this manner, especially when travelling. It feels antiquated to have to use a Chromecast (much alone have to buy one in the first place) to access entertainment from your phone to a TV, so this is something Google could simply remedy.
