Nexus-N/Pixel XL ( 2016 )

[The Game 161]

had a dream where i bought the pixel XL today. Can my dreams see the future? hmmm.

 

[co.ag.2005]

FYI for those of you who like to tinker and had to get a Verizon model

Sunshine Allows for Verizon Pixel Bootloader Unlocking

 

[tbayrgs]

Well, I said I was going to put the Pixel XL through its paces for a couple weeks but sad to report, it's boxed up and going back to Google. I won't bore everyone to death with all of my reasons listed ad naseum, will just try to summarize with some brevity (yeah, right ) It's not do to the phone or the phone's price, but almost entirely because of either my own issues with Android or trying to fit an Android phone (and Android Wear watch) into my tech ecosystem.

The Pixel XL itself is terrific and would easily be my preferred Android device if I had to use Android. The build quality and materials are rock solid, it feels great in hand to use, performance is super snappy, the display is wonderful, battery life a big step up from Google sold phones in the past, while the camera the best ever on a Google sold phone and appears to deserve the praise it's getting in the community. My issues are specific to the Android OS and Android Wear. It basically feels like I'm swimming upstream trying to fit it in with my iPad and Macs. And to top it all off, Android Wear isn't in the same ballpark as the Apple Watch and watchOS. I just can't continue using it.

I really wanted this to work for me and genuinely am bummed it hasn't. I'll revisit Google's offerings again next year when their hardware ecosystem has baked a little further. Until then, just going back to my trusty iPhone 6s+.

 

[Lava Lamp Freak]

If the iPhone 8 really has all of the changes that are rumored, I might get lured back from Android. I even considered going to iPhone 7 from my S7, but I find the screen too small now at 4.7", and the 5.5" is a little too large for me. I wish Apple made a 5".

I won't go S8 unless they can make it as fast as the Pixel. The perpetual lag on Samsung devices is annoying. Even more annoying is the people who claim there is no lag at all on S7. Well, after going from S7 to Pixel it's a wonderful experience.

Well, I said I was going to put the Pixel XL through its paces for a couple weeks but sad to report, it's boxed up and going back to Google. I won't bore everyone to death with all of my reasons listed ad naseum, will just try to summarize with some brevity (yeah, right ) It's not do to the phone or the phone's price, but almost entirely because of either my own issues with Android or trying to fit an Android phone (and Android Wear watch) into my tech ecosystem.

The Pixel XL itself is terrific and would easily be my preferred Android device if I had to use Android. The build quality and materials are rock solid, it feels great in hand to use, performance is super snappy, the display is wonderful, battery life a big step up from Google sold phones in the past, while the camera the best ever on a Google sold phone and appears to deserve the praise it's getting in the community. My issues are specific to the Android OS and Android Wear. It basically feels like I'm swimming upstream trying to fit it in with my iPad and Macs. And to top it all off, Android Wear isn't in the same ballpark as the Apple Watch and watchOS. I just can't continue using it.

I really wanted this to work for me and genuinely am bummed it hasn't. I'll revisit Google's offerings again next year when their hardware ecosystem has baked a little further. Until then, just going back to my trusty iPhone 6s+.

I had a similar experience. Initially I loved the Pixel and was happy to switch to it from the S7, but I succumbed to temptation and traded for an iPhone 7. I think my ideal phone would be a combination of the Pixel, S7, and iPhone 7. I'm honestly not 100% happy with any of them, but I find the iPhone experience to be the least annoying of the three at this time. Knowing how often I trade, I'll probably be pocketing the S8 early next year.

The way EIS handles panning in videos on the Pixel is weird. Maybe they can perfect it in a software update, but I think pairing OIS with EIS will provide better video.

 

[MRU]

I got a google pixel coming from a friend. Popped over the border and picked me up a 32gb Quite Black pixel

And given the crappy exchange rate Sterling is in right now it only cost €640 whereas it's expected to be €729-749

 

[The Game 161]

I got a google pixel coming from a friend. Popped over the border and picked me up a 32gb Quite Black pixel

And given the crappy exchange rate Sterling is in right now it only cost €640 whereas it's expected to be €729-749

looking forward to your thoughts on it.

 

[joshwithachance]

Well, I said I was going to put the Pixel XL through its paces for a couple weeks but sad to report, it's boxed up and going back to Google. I won't bore everyone to death with all of my reasons listed ad naseum, will just try to summarize with some brevity (yeah, right ) It's not do to the phone or the phone's price, but almost entirely because of either my own issues with Android or trying to fit an Android phone (and Android Wear watch) into my tech ecosystem.

The Pixel XL itself is terrific and would easily be my preferred Android device if I had to use Android. The build quality and materials are rock solid, it feels great in hand to use, performance is super snappy, the display is wonderful, battery life a big step up from Google sold phones in the past, while the camera the best ever on a Google sold phone and appears to deserve the praise it's getting in the community. My issues are specific to the Android OS and Android Wear. It basically feels like I'm swimming upstream trying to fit it in with my iPad and Macs. And to top it all off, Android Wear isn't in the same ballpark as the Apple Watch and watchOS. I just can't continue using it.

I really wanted this to work for me and genuinely am bummed it hasn't. I'll revisit Google's offerings again next year when their hardware ecosystem has baked a little further. Until then, just going back to my trusty iPhone 6s+.

EXACTLY how I feel. Just not so focused on the Apple Watch since I don't use mine all that often. The Pixel XL is the best, and most iPhone-like, Android phone to date. But Android itself just doesn't fit my lifestyle with it's lack of true ecosystem and continuity between other devices.

 

[mclld]

It seems like you guys prefer ios and that is no big deal, I wouldnt be dipping into android if I prefered ios. There is no correct choice as some of the mouth breathers on either side will try to say, it is a personal choice and preference

 

[daveathall]

Well, I said I was going to put the Pixel XL through its paces for a couple weeks but sad to report, it's boxed up and going back to Google. I won't bore everyone to death with all of my reasons listed ad naseum, will just try to summarize with some brevity (yeah, right ) It's not do to the phone or the phone's price, but almost entirely because of either my own issues with Android or trying to fit an Android phone (and Android Wear watch) into my tech ecosystem.

The Pixel XL itself is terrific and would easily be my preferred Android device if I had to use Android. The build quality and materials are rock solid, it feels great in hand to use, performance is super snappy, the display is wonderful, battery life a big step up from Google sold phones in the past, while the camera the best ever on a Google sold phone and appears to deserve the praise it's getting in the community. My issues are specific to the Android OS and Android Wear. It basically feels like I'm swimming upstream trying to fit it in with my iPad and Macs. And to top it all off, Android Wear isn't in the same ballpark as the Apple Watch and watchOS. I just can't continue using it.

I really wanted this to work for me and genuinely am bummed it hasn't. I'll revisit Google's offerings again next year when their hardware ecosystem has baked a little further. Until then, just going back to my trusty iPhone 6s+.

As always, fair and balanced comments.

I haven't had a new phone for two years and am really enjoying this phone, I think that because I am technically challenged I miss out on some of the things these phones really can and can't do, I am retired now (except for a 3 day 4 hour part time job because I got bored) and don't really have a workflow from computer/pad to phone etc, I do have a MBP and iPads, I enjoy these most and find that I can get what I want to sync with them using Google.

If I am honest, I probably over buy for my needs, but I do like new tech and really enjoy this phone, even though I only scratch the surface of what it could really do.

 

[jamezr]

I got a google pixel coming from a friend. Popped over the border and picked me up a 32gb Quite Black pixel

And given the crappy exchange rate Sterling is in right now it only cost €640 whereas it's expected to be €729-749

Nice! Looking forward to reading your thoughts!

 

[epicrayban]

With all that's available on Android, I just don't find it that hard to integrate an Android device into my Mac home.

Texts will be texts. Pushbullet hands off things to my rMBP and iMacs just fine. If I had a pixel, photos would sync to my Google account. Just a few examples. With the exception of a few things, my Android devices integrate fine.

If you need the full 100% immersion, then that's fine and your choice to make, but in my opinion, that comes at too great a cost with the limitations of iOS, something you have to deal with daily.

 

[Fernandez21]

M

 

[5105973]

Well, I said I was going to put the Pixel XL through its paces for a couple weeks but sad to report, it's boxed up and going back to Google. I won't bore everyone to death with all of my reasons listed ad naseum, will just try to summarize with some brevity (yeah, right ) It's not do to the phone or the phone's price, but almost entirely because of either my own issues with Android or trying to fit an Android phone (and Android Wear watch) into my tech ecosystem.

The Pixel XL itself is terrific and would easily be my preferred Android device if I had to use Android. The build quality and materials are rock solid, it feels great in hand to use, performance is super snappy, the display is wonderful, battery life a big step up from Google sold phones in the past, while the camera the best ever on a Google sold phone and appears to deserve the praise it's getting in the community. My issues are specific to the Android OS and Android Wear. It basically feels like I'm swimming upstream trying to fit it in with my iPad and Macs. And to top it all off, Android Wear isn't in the same ballpark as the Apple Watch and watchOS. I just can't continue using it.

I really wanted this to work for me and genuinely am bummed it hasn't. I'll revisit Google's offerings again next year when their hardware ecosystem has baked a little further. Until then, just going back to my trusty iPhone 6s+.

Oh I empathize. I'm a petite woman so my best smart watch option is pretty much limited to Apple Watch 38 mm. Android Wear watches are too big for me. I courageously wear my Samsung Gear S2 sometimes but it looks like I'm playing dress up with my dad's watch.

I don't really care about using my iPad along with my phones. It has a very isolated use and I don't really make use of any format of continuity between Apple devices beyond pairing the watch to the phone.

I love the Apple Watch. I don't blame you for making this choice. Thank you for the feedback on the Pixel XL that you were able to give.

 

[spriter]

I'll add some more thoughts after a week of ownership but here's some battery life info.

Typical start to a weekend day, mostly on WiFi, some not, 40℅ brightness, nothing disabled or turned off. Watched two tv episodes from my NAS, some YouTube videos, emails, reddit, Twitter, plus a few calls.

I've found it charges to around 50℅ in 30 mins, 85℅ in an hour, and full on around 90 minutes using QC3. Not as quick as dash charge but still good when the battery is this good.


EDIT: this is the XL

 

[bgro]

Ordered a Pixel XL Quite Black about week or two ago with estimated shipping around 23 November. Cannot wait to get my hands on this phone. Everything I've been reading about has been mostly good. The new MacBook pricing has really almost put the nail in the coffin for being an "Apple household" for me. No way I'm dropping $1800 at a minimum to get the newest tech from Apple. Add that to the $750 iPad that almost gets no use and I think I'm done paying the Apple tax. Getting priced out of their ecosystem for sure which is actually a good thing for a tech enthusiast like me.

Looking forward to the Pixel and going to order a Google Home as well.

 

[5105973]

Ordered a Pixel XL Quite Black about week or two ago with estimated shipping around 23 November. Cannot wait to get my hands on this phone. Everything I've been reading about has been mostly good. The new MacBook pricing has really almost put the nail in the coffin for being an "Apple household" for me. No way I'm dropping $1800 at a minimum to get the newest tech from Apple. Add that to the $750 iPad that almost gets no use and I think I'm done paying the Apple tax. Getting priced out of their ecosystem for sure which is actually a good thing for a tech enthusiast like me.

Looking forward to the Pixel and going to order a Google Home as well.

Apple seems to be marrying fashion and technology to a level that is starting to negatively impact function. They're starting to alienate a lot of us longtime Apple customers. I hope they get back on track next year but I have my doubts.

 

[spriter]

Apple seems to be marrying fashion and technology to a level that is starting to negatively impact function. They're starting to alienate a lot of us longtime Apple customers. I hope they get back on track next year but I have my doubts.

Who knows. It's the tenth anniversary so maybe that'll encourage them.

I'm glad they've repositioned the Watch with more sports features (GPS and waterproofing) and appearance (Nike edition). Just need to integrate standard cycling sensors and have the battery last more than a 4-hour ride / one day use and I'll reconsider.

 

[The Game 161]

Apple seems to be marrying fashion and technology to a level that is starting to negatively impact function. They're starting to alienate a lot of us longtime Apple customers. I hope they get back on track next year but I have my doubts.

Think only really macbook is the pricing just out of control. For me my macbook pro 2015 will last me for a long time. I'm sure many don't need the latest and greatest there are some older models which will work fine for most.

 

[macjunk(ie)]

Think only really macbook is the pricing just out of control. For me my macbook pro 2015 will last me for a long time. I'm sure many don't need the latest and greatest there are some older models which will work fine for most.

What if you had to buy a MBP now? You would be forced to pay these absurd prices.
In 3/4/5 years, when the time comes to upgrade our 2015s, what if Apple is worse off and are charging 3500$ for a base config? To me, this whole Apple pricing fiasco reveals one thing: you just cannot depend on Apple to keep it real. More and more I find, these guys tend to get lost in their own reality distortion field that they setup for their consumers.

 

[The Game 161]

What if you had to buy a MBP now? You would be forced to pay these absurd prices.
In 3/4/5 years, when the time comes to upgrade our 2015s, what if Apple is worse off and are charging 3500$ for a base config? To me, this whole Apple pricing fiasco reveals one thing: you just cannot depend on Apple to keep it real. More and more I find, these guys tend to get lost in their own reality distortion field that they setup for their consumers.

depends would you really need a brand new one?

got my 2015 macbook pro last year for about £850 i think it was. Guess it depends if you need a brand new one or not. Just like next year i'm sure you can get some refurbished ones at a lower price like what i did.

 

[macjunk(ie)]

depends would you really need a brand new one?

got my 2015 macbook pro last year for about £850 i think it was. Guess it depends if you need a brand new one or not. Just like next year i'm sure you can get some refurbished ones at a lower price like what i did.

Yeah. Kind of sad that the only kind of affordable way to Apple is to buy refurbished. Nevertheless, it looks like Apple did succeed in setting up a trend of premium pricing.

Microsoft is doing it with its Surface line and Google is doing it with Pixel. So Apple, Microsoft and Google are all selling us products whose value for money propositions have to be defended by fanboys. The loyalists meanwhile will have to gulp down a fresh batch of that kool aid...you know..to wash away the metallic after tinge of biting the bullet

 

[Aneres11]

I want a Pixel.
That's all.

 

[epicrayban]

http://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2016/10/29/13466786/google-pixel-photo-better-than-iphone

I took a photo with the Pixel that changed my mind about the iPhone

On the basis of my extended experience with Google’s Pixel, I consider it an all-around better phone than the iPhone 7.

 

[epicrayban]

I hope the unlimited photos/videos backup is something Google continues doing with future Pixels. It should become a Google/Pixel marquee feature. Any photo/videos taken from any Pixel device is fair game.

 

[jamezr]

I don't really care about using my iPad along with my phones. It has a very isolated use and I don't really make use of any format of continuity between Apple devices beyond pairing the watch to the phone.

I am the same way.....i have kids and the iMac and iPads and macbook pro are all available for the family to use. i don't want to get texts or calls on those devices. So I guess I am not so tied into the ecosystem as some may be. Not to say that is not an awesome feature mind you.
It just makes it easy for me to switch phones and use Android phones as well as iphones.....
[doublepost=1477940121][/doublepost]

http://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2016/10/29/13466786/google-pixel-photo-better-than-iphone

I took a photo with the Pixel that changed my mind about the iPhone

On the basis of my extended experience with Google’s Pixel, I consider it an all-around better phone than the iPhone 7.

I read that article....nice write up the the Verge.