Google Nexus 2016: New Phones Named Google Pixel, Pixel XL Set For October 4 Launching

By KLDatoy - 07 Sep '16 11:59AM

The next Google Nexus phone that everyone has been talking about is now named as the Google Pixel Phones. Apparently, the news about Google dropping the Nexus brand has happened.

Reports reveal that the units code named Sailfish and Marlin will be called Pixel and Pixel XL. Said handsets will be released on Oct. 4 like what the previous rumor said. On that day, Google is said to hold an event to launch the new Pixel phones, Android Police reported.

Pixel and Pixel XL will be released with a Google-customized version of Android 7.0 Nougat. Pixel will be 5 inches in size while the larger version, Pixel XL will come in 5.5 inches. The phones will have higher specifications and would feature Google’s DayDream VR platform.

The new Google Pixel will run with Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 processor with 4GB of RAM, 32GB or 128GB of storage and a dual 12MP and 8MP camera set-up. The bigger Google Pixel phone will reportedly feature a higher-spec 13MP rear-facing camera.

The Pixel version will be made with soft-touch plastic like the ones used for Nexus units but it will have part metal build. According to Know Your Mobile, the Pixel XL handset will have a similar build to the HTC 10 and will be made from metal.

Aside from Pixel and Pixel XL, Google will also be releasing a new 4K Chromecast device, Google Home, as well as an in-house design for a Daydream VR viewer which could be called the Daydream View. Prices are not yet revealed but it is teased that the handset will be more expensive than the Nexus smart phones last year, BGR reported.

Many are wondering why the new Nexus phones are called differently despite the established Nexus brand. According to reports, the giant technology company wants it to be more "Google" and that the new handsets will have unique software features aside from being run by Android.