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Tag: Google Pixel

  • Google Pixel 4 Update Silently Introduces Two More Important Tweaks

    Google Pixel 4 Update Silently Introduces Two More Important Tweaks

    Google’s Android update for December 2019 is slowly making its way to Pixel 4 users across the globe, and we already know it introduces e-SIM support for T-Mobile phones.

    Google Pixel 4 Update

    However, XDA-Developers have uncovered two additional features in this update – dual-frequency GPS and an improved Face Unlock feature.

    Dual-frequency GPS is available on many flagship phones these days, and it delivers more accurate location tracking.

    The Face Unlock feature is pretty exciting, too, as Google now uses recent Face Unlock scans to improve security and accuracy over time. In simpler words, the more you use facial recognition on the Pixel 4 Phone or 4 XL, the better it gets.

    We hope to see this feature on more phones.

    Unfortunately, Google still has not implemented an eyes-open toggle for Face Unlock, which means people can still unlock your phone if you’re sleeping. Hopefully, this toggle is added in the next update.

    The Google Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL were launched in October of 2019 and currently run on a stable version of Android 10, which is the latest version of Android.

    The phones and are expected to receive the Android 11 update in September 2020. Pixel phones receive three major updates in their lifetime per Google’s smartphone update policy.

    Google tends to push updates to its Pixel phones, even if they are full-blown revamps of the OS on the day they first become available.

    We can expect the Pixel 4 and 4 XL to receive Android 11 as soon as the final version rolls out. The rollout of Android 11 is expected around September of 2020.

    GOOGLE PIXEL 4 UPDATE AVAILABILITY ANDROID 10 ANDROID 11
    AT&T Available TBA
    Sprint Available TBA
    Verizon Available TBA
    T-Mobile Available TBA
    US unlocked Available TBA
    International unlocked Available TBA

     Here are some recent developments in Google’s approach to keeping its flagships updated:

      • The November update for Pixel 4 fixed some minor issues in the camera app’s white balance. The update also enhanced some phones 90Hz displays.
      • Google is now bringing new features to its Pixel 4 and 4 XL smartphones in the form of the upcoming “feature drops.” Google’s Pixel devices regularly receive updates for bug fixes and general improvements; however, these new feature drops aim to bring more content and tools to the devices.

    The first feature drop brings general performance enhancements, and it comes with better photo editing tools, enhanced Call Screening capabilities, and improve Google Duo calling.

      • Google also announced that in an upcoming update, Google Pixel 4 users in the UK, Canada, Singapore, Ireland, and Australia would get an update bringing them the new Google Assistant. Unfortunately, the new Assistant is still only available in English, and won’t work if you have a G-Suite account on your phone.

    Bottom Line

    Google’s smartphones boast excellent software optimization and are the critic’s favorite when it comes to style and performance.

    It is great to see Google silently making their products better for its users.

  • Google Pixel 4 earns 5th position in DxOMark’s audio ranking

    Google Pixel 4 earns 5th position in DxOMark’s audio ranking

    Google Pixel smartphones are well regarded for their unmatched camera specs. In DxOMark’s camera testing, the device scored overall 112 and we are back with a detailed review of its abilities. This time, the audio capabilities of Pixel 4 have been tested.

    Google Pixel 4 earns 5th position in DxOMark's audio ranking

    In its analysis, Pixel 4 ranked 5th in the category of premium smartphones when the blog site tested its audio performance. When it comes to the same, it was also the third-best among Android smartphones. Wondering which device won the top position? It’s none other than Huawei Mate 20X.

    Let’s get back to the point. Pixel 4 scored 68 overall and successfully outperformed Samsung’s premium flagships – Galaxy S10 Plus and Galaxy Note 10 Plus 5G.

    However, the four smartphones beating Pixel 4 smartphones were iPhone XS Max on the fourth spot, iPhone 11 Pro Max on the third spot, Asus ROG Phone II on the second spot, and finally Huawei Mate 20X on the top spot.

    When it comes to scoring breakdown – Pixel 4 scored 63 in recording and 70 in playback. According to the audio review of the blog site, the playback quality of Pixel 4 was quite impressive and decent, considering its smaller size than other flagship phones.

    The phone performs quite well against the like of Mate 20X. When used on watching movies and gaming, the phone performed really well. But the bass effect of the phone lagged behind various top-end phones. Due to this reason, it scored lower in comparison to other premium budget devices.

    When it comes to recording, Pixel 4 came out with consistent recording and decent volume performance. In loud environments, it performed really well. But there were annoying resonances in the bass aspect, which brought ‘boomy impact’. Due to this reason, the phone scored lower in the recording.

    The blog post concluded, “Google Pixel 4 performed really well in DxOMark’s audio tests. Well, it could be more improved though.”

    Google Pixel 4 – Key Specifications

    Officially launched in October 2019, Google Pixel 4 features a 5.7-inch display with an aspect ratio of 19:9, 1080x2280p resolution and 444ppi of pixel density.

    The smartphone is powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 octa-core processor and 6 Gigs of RAM. It runs the latest Android 10 and gets its juice from a non-removable 2800mAh battery. It supports the company’s exclusive fast charging.

    When it comes to cameras, the rear panel packs a primary camera of 16MP with f/2.4 aperture and 1.0-micron pixel size, along with a 12.2MP secondary camera with a pixel size of 1.4-micron and f/1.7 aperture. It also comes with PDAF on the rear panel. The front camera features an 8MP shooter with f/2.0 and 1.22-micron pixel size.

    Google Pixel 4 is backed with 64GB of storage and supports an eSIM and Nano-SIM.  The device was launched in simply Black, Clearly White, and Orange color options.

    It has all the connectivity options, such as GPS, Bluetooth 5, Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, NFC, dual 4G support, and USB-C port. One highlight is that the device supports the Face Unlock option for added security.

  • Google Pixel 4 and 4 XL have Finally Arrived – Specs, Features & Reviews

    Google Pixel 4 and 4 XL have Finally Arrived – Specs, Features & Reviews

    Google Pixel 4 is an upcoming Pixel phone that will be launched globally. In India, it will be launched on 27th December 2019. The smartphone will be the successor to last year’s Pixel 3.

    Google Pixel 4

    As with other Pixel phones, Google Pixel 4 will come with impressive camera abilities and many other unique features than its competitors.

    The cameras are great, with excellent quality of images captured. Hence, it is a treat for photography lovers. Also, the experience of quick and wireless charging is an add- on advantage

    There are many more features to brag about:

    Face Lock debuts for Google: The no fingerprint sensor lock is used for higher precision. Most interesting is that it unlocks only when your eyes are open.

    Camera features are more improved. The device will take advantage of two cameras, first for adding some advanced exposure controls and the second one for the night Mode as a gaining ability to photograph the moon and stars.

      • Added up with Telephoto lens
      • More “Smarter Google Assistant”
      • Use of Motion Sense– to mute the calls and notifications, switch and shuffle music and such similar functions.
      • To Control the Pixel 4, hand Gesture is allowed by Project Soli
      • Inbuilt way to customize your home screen without downloading any other launchers.
      • Live Caption Option– This will add Subtitles to any audio or video contents
      • Smart Storage – This removes backed up photos and videos.

    Let’s look at Pixel 4 Specifications:

    The Google Pixel 4 is a package full of comprehensive specifications with a form factor of HD Touchscreen, with a specific dimension-  147.10 x 68.80 x 8.20. It comes up with a battery capacity of 2800 mAh with a proprietary quick charging provided.

    Pixel 4 comes in three beautiful colors – Just Black, Clearly White, Oh so

    It’s an elegant and sleek body with a display of 5.70 inches, protected over with a layer of Gorilla Glass with 19:9 aspect ratio and 444 Pixels per inch (PPI)

    Coming to the most admired asset of any mobile phone, “It’s Camera.” The rear camera is 16 MP (f/2.4, 1.0 – Micron) + 12.2 MP (f/1.7,1.4 – Micron) with a Phase Detection autofocus and the front camera of 8 MP.

    The Processor used in Pixel 4 is octa-core with a RAM of 6 GB and internal storage of 64 GB with no any kind of expandable storage.

    Now one unique concept is being introduced in Pixel 4. You might have been aware of Nano SIM, Micro SIM, but not yet about the eSIM.

    Google-Pixel-4-4-XL-Back

    Pixel 4 has two slots, one for a Nano-SIM and another one for an eSIM, whereas both will be supporting 3G, 4G/LTE.

    Talking about the sensors, many are being used like Face unlock sensor, Proximity Sensor, Accelerometer, Ambient Light Sensor, Gyroscope, Barometer, and Magnetometer/ Compass. All in all, it is a very smartphone literally.

    Google Pixel 4 XL

     It is an advanced and more extensive version of Google Pixel 4.

    If you are looking for something with a “no-budget limitation” thing, then go for it without any second thoughts. It’s well worth every buck.

    Google Pixel 4 XL

    There is not much difference between the Google Pixel 4 and Google Pixel 4 xl, but some of the internal functions, Display, Screen Size, etc. are different

    So let’s check them out in detail! However, most features are the same for both models.

    The Pixel 4 xl has different Physical display and aesthetics – a contrasting power button and three color options

    • Higher Frame Rate
    • Higher Refresh Rate

    It has an Ultra-Wide Lens. You can hence shoot different types of compositions, wide-angle, astrophotography mode, portrait mode, and telephoto function. Other features include:

      • OLED Display- Nice Contrast Ratio, Higher pixel display
      • The Motion Sense – Again Thanks to Soli Motion Sensing radar – chip
      • Titan M Security Module
      • Audio with Stereo Speakers, one at the bottom and other on the back of the handset. Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 processor with pixel neutral core
      • More battery life – the most important aspect for the generation. With an 18 watt charger in the box which gets charged wirelessly.
      • Android Operating System with three years of security and frequent OS updates – It runs Android 10, which is the latest version of Android
      • Multi Sensors with a new Ambient Light Sensor
      • Transcription Capabilities
      • Multiple graphics advantage
      • Live Caption Option


    Specifications:

    Google Pixel 4 xl is the next version to Pixel 4 with some similarities and on the other hand, with some updates in Design, Size, Camera MP, its features, etc.

    The size of the 4 xl is 160.40 x 75.10 x 8.20, weighing 193 grams, slightly heavier than Pixel 4. It boosts up its battery capacity in 4xl of 3700 mAh with proprietary quick charging technology.

    Pixel 4xl is available in three colors – Just Black, Clearly White, Oh so Orange

    It has an eye-catchy look with a display of 6.30 inches, with a protective and sturdy layer of Gorilla Glass with 19:9 aspect ratio and 537 Pixels per inch (PPI)

    The 4xl has a 16 MP (f/2.4, 1.0 – Micron) + 12.2 MP (f/1.7,1.4 – Micron)  rear camera as with a Phase Detection autofocus and a front camera of 8 MP.

    The Processor used in Pixel 4xl is the same as that of Pixel 4, octa-core with a RAM of 6 GB and internal storage of 64 GB with no any kind of expandable storage.

    It also has two slots, one for a Nano-SIM and another one for an eSIM, whereas both will be supporting 3G, 4G/LTE.

    Sensors used in the 4xl are Face unlock sensor, Proximity Sensor, Accelerometer, Ambient Light Sensor, Gyroscope, Barometer, and Magnetometer/ Compass.

    Bottom Line

    Both versions have a lot of exciting features. Google Pixel has always been a prime choice for users looking for intelligent smartphones and making the most out of them. With the new models coming out, will we see a surge in Pixel demands? Stay tuned to find out!

  • November security patches rolling out

    November security patches rolling out

    In November 2019, the monthly security patches for Google’s Pixels are rolled out including the Pixel 4 XL and 4. This major monthly update will include both mobile phones with a few fixes. When compared with earlier features, Google’s Pixel 4 XL & 4 will get some Smooth Display improvements and also camera tweaks. They also published some biggest security bulletin for November month and posted the same under Google’s website for full OTA downloads and factory images.

    November security patches rolling out

    Full Functional security patches with the change-log for Google’s Pixel mobile phones are as follows:

      • Camera Quality and Smooth Display improvement for Pixel 4 XL & 4.
      • Controller mapping for Xbox BT with additional support for entire Google Pixel models (from Pixel 4 XL until Pixel 2).
      • Some models stuck while booting and additional fixes offered from Pixel 3a XL, Pixel 3a, Pixel 3 XL, & Pixel 3.
      • The audio quality for bottom speaker improvements for the Pixel 3 model.
      • Google Assistant Hotword improvements for Pixel 3 XL, Pixel 3, Pixel 2L, & Pixel 2.

    Security Patches for OTA Files

    Pixel devices include the factory images and OTA files for assistance. You can download the Android security files to your respective devices that can be downloaded from Google’s website.

    Within this process, your mobile device can boost up to Android version 10. Users can follow the below-provided instructions to flash their mobile phones without any data loss manually. The Android security update with OTA files for your essential mobile phones is already started to roll out.

    Sideloading OTA for Android 10

    OTA File Download – It is important to download the OTA file beta version from the full OTA Google’s Image hosting website. It includes various updates for the Nexus device, Google Pixel devices, and also Android 10.

    Sideloading OTA for Android 10

    Boot your device in Recovery Mode – You need to boot your Google’s Pixel device in Recovery mode. Make use of the Bootloader page by press & hold the Volume down & power buttons simultaneously for a few seconds. With the help of volume buttons, you can scroll up & down to choose the Recovery mode. After selecting, press the Power button. Volume Up button control the Recovery mode.

    ADB Sideloading Navigation – You can apply the required ADB update with the help of the Volume button and use the Power button to select.

    Installation of ADB Tools: Connecting your mobile phone to a PC – You should have Fastboot & ADB tools to transfer the OTA files to your mobile phone from the PC. Also, you can download ADB the tools Within the Android official Developers site.

    Inputting Sideload Command – Once the OTA file is ready for Sideloading, you can utilize the Command Prompt application on your Windows PC. Access the command prompt and input the keyword ADB and press the enter key.

    If you are using Linux or Mac OS then input as ./adb sideload and hit the enter key. Now, choose the appropriate.Zip file to use the ADB file to start the process. After a successful setup, you can view the Installation and as well as the Sideloading process dialog box.

    Restart your mobile phone – After installing the OTA file, you can return to the Recovery mode. Also, the new update can be applied on your mobile phone by restarting it by using the Power button.