Ask more of your phone with Google’s Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL

techradar.com

The Pixel 2 boasts the highest-rated smartphone camera, according to image quality rating website dxomark.com. It features 1080p display and lacks a headphone jack.

Richard Mendiola

The release of Google’s second Pixel phone promises a few new upgrades from the first and has garnered immense attention from tech lovers for its high-quality camera. Operating on Android, it comes in two sizes: a standard 5-inch Pixel 2 and a 6-inch Pixel 2 XL.

Pixel 2 is the first to introduce waterproof ability in its line which means they’ll survive a drop in the sink or a heavy rainfall, unlike their predecessor. The phones also have an always-on display feature, much like Samsung’s Galaxy S7, where the date and time show on the screen even if the phone is turned off. Active Edge, a feature parallel to the iPhone’s “Siri,” can be activated by squeezing the phone on both sides.

According to DxOMark, a well-known website that rates cameras and lenses, Pixel 2 has the highest-rated smartphone camera with a score of 98. Clear camera quality gives the user ease when taking photos but pays more attention to color detail than sharpness. To bump it up a notch, you can ask Active Edge what the contents of a photo are by simply tapping it.

The Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL differ slightly in screen quality and design. The Pixel 2 is five inches tall with squared corners, quality daytime visibility and 1080p display. On the other hand the Pixel 2 XL is an inch taller with rounded corners and curved glass, yet unfortunately displays duller colors.

Neither of the Pixels have a headphone jack, which means you’ll either have to buy earbuds with a charger end or purchase an extension. This is a feature many iPhone 7 users disliked.

Released on Oct. 19, the phones offer 64GB and 128GB storage. It comes in three colors: Just Black, Clearly White and Kinda Blue. Prices range from $650 to $900, but monthly payment plans are available.