Google is all set to unleash its Pixel v2.0 on 4 October in the US, where Sundar Pichai will take over the keynote speech at the event. Google is likely to showcase its Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL devices, the first set of phones to offer Android Oreo out-of-box this year. The Pixels will go up against the iPhone 8 series, as well as the Galaxy Note 8 from Samsung.
Unlike Apple’s keynote, you’ll be able to watch the Google event via its YouTube channel that is available to all users across the planet. Here’s what we can expect to see at the Google 4 October event.
Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL
Right on cue, we’ve got a glimpse of the upcoming Pixel phones from none other than Evan Blass, and going by his record, this could be the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL.
As you can see above, the Pixel 2 XL gets slimmer bezels compared to that on the Pixel 2. However, the most noticeable part is the lack of dual cameras on either Pixel 2 or the XL version.
Also Read: Google Pixel 2: Can Google Give Us the Perfect Android Smartphone?
Google Pixel 2 should most definitely come powered with the Snapdragon 835 processor, which is already available with the OnePlus 5 and Sony Xperia XZs. Pairing this SoC should be 4GB RAM (maybe a 6GB option too) that is expected to come in 32 and 128GB storage options.
In addition, Google should offer a big-size battery unit on both Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL, even though there’s a lot riding on how Android 8.0 works out.
Google Home Upgrades
Apple HomePods are yet to hit the shelves (expected availability around December), and this could help Google take the upperhand over its rival with Google Home upgrades.
With Amazon diving into the voice-assistant device segment, expect Google to upgrade its own device, and maybe add a couple of variants (smaller one than the original box), and a Google Home with display could make its debut too.
Daydream VR Headset 2
The Daydream virtual reality headset could get upgraded for the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL. While Google is keen to push its efforts for augmented reality, VR could still be a big part of their virtual future, especially with mobiles now becoming capable of operating at PC-like level.
This version 2 of the headset could get a new design, with more intuitive controls (along with remote) which could bump up the price of the device.
Let’s Talk ARCore
While Apple didn’t show much of ARKit at the iPhone event last month, expect Google to do the opposite, and talk about its ARCore ecosystem, especially to connect with its developers.
Also Read: ARCore – Google’s Answer to Apple’s Augmented Reality for Mobile
ARCore is no different from how Google’s earlier assignment Project Tango worked, something which has been experienced with devices like Asus Zenfone AR. But what changes with ARCore is that you don’t need additional hardware support to run AR-enabled operations. We are likely to see the capability of ARCore on the Pixel 2 series from the event.
What Else?
Some announcements for Google Chromebook are likely to be made at the event. In addition to that, we’ve been hearing that Google Assistant-enabled headphones could also be showcased (and even demoed) by Google.
So, we’re all set for the 4 October Google event, where the new Pixels will be announced. Stay tuned to The Quint for all the updates from the event.
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