Google announces Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL

After months of leaks and speculation, the Google Pixel 3 and Google Pixel 3 XL were finally unveiled today by the company during a special event. Both phones feature the signature Pixel design with its dual-tone back and single rear camera, but with powerful hardware, Android 9 Pie and wireless charging included.

	Pixel 3	Pixel 3 XL
Display	5.5 inches	6.3 inches
Storage	64GB | 128GB
Camera	single 12MP rear camera, dual front cameras
Battery	2915 mAh	3430 mAh
Chipset	Snapdragon 845
RAM	4 GB
OS	Android 9 Pie

Display

Both new Pixels come with OLED displays, and Google has clearly fixed the blue-tint and burn-in issues found on last year's Pixel 2 XL. The smaller Pixel 3 has a 5.5 inch display with a 1080 x 2160 pixel resolution, while the larger Pixel 3 XL has a 6.3 inch display with a 1440 x 2960 pixel resolution. The only complaint about the Pixel 3 XL is the immense size of the notch Google has added, which has to be one of the largest we have seen on a smartphone.

Camera

While Google hasn't followed the trend of dual cameras on the rear, their very capable 12 megapixel camera makes use of the powerful processor and Google's AI algorithms to provide amazing top of its class photos. Google has introduced some new features like AI ‘Top Shot,’ a Google Clips-like service ‘Photobooth,’ and Super res zoom. Google Lens is also now embedded in the camera and many features work even when you are offline.

With Top Shot, the phone snaps a bunch of pictures and then uses AI to select and combine the images into one where all the people have their eyes open and are smiling.

Top Shot lets you pick your favorite photo out of multiple captured photos

Google has improved their Portrait Mode, allowing you to select the level of background blur after you take the shot. You can even switch to what you are focusing on your image.

Google has introduced dual 8MP pixel cameras on the front of both Pixel devices this year - a regular one and a wider shooter for those group selfies. Google is calling these group selfies "groupies" and its sure to be popular.

Google still offers unlimited storage for their Pixel users on Google Photos.

Wireless Charging

The Pixel 3 packs a 2915mAh battery, while the Pixel 3 XL battery has a 3420mAh capacity. Both phones charge via USB-C (there is a USB-C to USB-C cable in the box) and the come with a USB Power Delivery charger in the box.

Pixel Stand

Google has also introduced wireless charging for the first time on their Pixel lineup. You would need to purchase a separately sold wireless charger and Google has you covered with their new Pixel Stand. The Pixel Stand is priced at $80, but you could purchase any Qi compatible wireless charger for your new Pixel smartphone.

The benefit of the Pixel Stand is that when you place your phone on it, the Google Assistant would be optimized so you can shout to it from across the room, much like you do with Google Home.

Both smartphones also benefit from fast charging, with wireless charging at up to 10 watts and wired charging at up to 18 watts.

Release and Availability

You can pre-order the Pixel 3 and the Pixel 3 XL starting today. The Pixel 3 is priced at $799. whole the larger Pixel 3 XL will cost you $899. Google is also offering financing options when you purchase the Pixel through the Google Store.

Both new models will Verizon Wireless exclusives in the United States starting October 18th. You can still purchase the device directly from Google unlocked to use on any carrier, or connect it to Project Fi.