Oh, I get it. But the same can be said for the iPhone, price wise. But this trend won't change as long as the majority of customers pay the asking price (myself included).
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The non-whining Google Pixel Thread
- Thread starter Surf Donkey
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Oh, I get it. But the same can be said for the iPhone, price wise. But this trend won't change as long as the majority of customers pay the asking price (myself included).
Yeah, with record-breaking sales, Apple surely has no reason at all to lower iPhone prices.
No reason, whatsoever.
The Pixel is too expensive. Simple as that. It's already DOA.
We'll revisit this thread in a couple of years when there's an article about why Google discontinued it - or what they blamed for poor sales.
We'll revisit this thread in a couple of years when there's an article about why Google discontinued it - or what they blamed for poor sales.
Apple is a bit different because they are the only ones offering iOS. So it's a "take it or leave it or buy last year's model" situation if you want iOS.
With Android you now have pretty great mid-priced phones like the OP3 so you don't need to get the top end model to get most of the experience.
Exactly.
Sadly, the lower price phones don't seem to get the customers attention, because they are not widely available at carriers. All customers see are galaxies and iPhones, on a manageable monthly payment; combine that with the bogo offers and this is what we are left with.
I think the nexus 6p was possibly the best android phone ever made, in terms of value and users experience. The pixel is more expensive, but not drastically so. If the pixels succeeds on what it is offering, I think it will be a worth while phone.
I highly doubt google expects high sales this time around. I believe they are playing the long game, and realize it will take a good while.
Again, I agree completely. But the average consumer isn't aware, or doesn't care.
At least google is making the pixel unique with unique features. Honestly, from a visual and experience point of view; the pixel is about as different in use to the galaxy as the galaxy is to the iPhone.
^ Exactly this. The Verge has a fairly in-depth discussion with Rick Osterloh about Google's hardware philosophy and even he admits they don't expect the Pixels to be big sellers.
THE GOOGLE PHONE
The inside story of Google’s bold bet on hardware
Agree or disagree with this new direction, I found it an interesting read.
I'm not sure why the people are complaining that much. iPhone always were expensive, now that Google makes one, it's a big deal.
Not sure if I will get one but I'm tempted.
I like:
- long lasting battery
- constant device updates from Google
- amoled display
- big storage option (128gb)
- headphone jack
- camera
- unlimited photo/video storage
- google vr
- pixel launcher
- very fast processor
- I like the 1/3 glass 2/3 non glossy, perfect to minimize fingerprints.
- usbc
cons:
- no waterproofing
but if I compare that to other phones, it's a solid list.
iPhone
cons :
- no amoled display
- small battery
- small resolution
- no customization within iOS
Note 7:
cons
- lack of software updates on Canadian soil (carrier's fault but still impact users).
- phone reputation was impacted, may affect resale value
Not sure if I will get one but I'm tempted.
I like:
- long lasting battery
- constant device updates from Google
- amoled display
- big storage option (128gb)
- headphone jack
- camera
- unlimited photo/video storage
- google vr
- pixel launcher
- very fast processor
- I like the 1/3 glass 2/3 non glossy, perfect to minimize fingerprints.
- usbc
cons:
- no waterproofing
but if I compare that to other phones, it's a solid list.
iPhone
cons :
- no amoled display
- small battery
- small resolution
- no customization within iOS
Note 7:
cons
- lack of software updates on Canadian soil (carrier's fault but still impact users).
- phone reputation was impacted, may affect resale value
I don't want to be a negative in this positive Pixel thread, but let's be realistic here.
Google is aiming for Apple like success with this Pixel phone right ? Well Apple has the iPhone in every carrier store in the U.S, and even at frigging Walmart, it's sold everywhere, is on display at Best Buy, they have Apple stores in the big cities. It's very easy to get a new iPhone
The same can be said for Samsung and their Galaxy line, it's sold everywhere, and easily obtainable.
But this Pixel phone is only sold online, and in Verizon stores. That's major limiter right there attracting potential customers.
People on AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, US Cellular, etc... will not even be aware this Pixel exists. That right there is almost 200 million people not even knowing your phone is out there.
And Verizon, you honestly think the sale staff will push this Pixel phone over the new iPhone 7 or Galaxy 7 ?
I really want a stock Android phone to be a success for the masses, it's the best of what Android is. But I just don't think Google is doing it right with this Pixel launch in my opinion, but hey, prove me wrong Google. I'd much rather the Pixel phone be the hot phone over an iPhone or Galaxy.
Google is aiming for Apple like success with this Pixel phone right ? Well Apple has the iPhone in every carrier store in the U.S, and even at frigging Walmart, it's sold everywhere, is on display at Best Buy, they have Apple stores in the big cities. It's very easy to get a new iPhone
The same can be said for Samsung and their Galaxy line, it's sold everywhere, and easily obtainable.
But this Pixel phone is only sold online, and in Verizon stores. That's major limiter right there attracting potential customers.
People on AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, US Cellular, etc... will not even be aware this Pixel exists. That right there is almost 200 million people not even knowing your phone is out there.
And Verizon, you honestly think the sale staff will push this Pixel phone over the new iPhone 7 or Galaxy 7 ?
I really want a stock Android phone to be a success for the masses, it's the best of what Android is. But I just don't think Google is doing it right with this Pixel launch in my opinion, but hey, prove me wrong Google. I'd much rather the Pixel phone be the hot phone over an iPhone or Galaxy.
I'll try not to whine in this thread, but the fact that I am in the market for a new smartphone (currently using a Nexus 5) and possibly *could* afford the Pixel (if i cut my spending in other areas, like Christmas gifts and furniture) should put me in the target demographic for potential customers for the Pixel.
However, I don't feel like I am because the price has completely turned me off. I'm not sure whether this is actually Google's fault or my fault for expecting to be able to buy device with high-ish specifications for ~$400.
Itis tough to get enthused about what appears to be a fairly unexciting look to the device from most of the photos I have seen. There don't seem to be any extraordinary bells and whistles that make for quick bullet points that help justify the expense. This makes marketing the Pixel a challenge.
Keeping that in mind, I am not sure that the decision to make Verizon an exclusive carrier-retailer was the best way to address the issue of marketing the Pixel phones.... but that's just water under the bridge at this point.
I do think that the choice to use premium materials with premium software and to go with new branding in order to differentiate the approach from the Nexus line is a step in the right direction.... but, I also feel like perhaps google is leaving me behind as a customer even though I have been a mild enthusiast (I owned a G1, and Galaxy Nexus... bought a Nexus S for my then-girlfriend).
In Google's defense, they are hardly the only mobile device manufacturer taking this approach.... Samsung's Galaxy Note 7 was $850.
The wife also needs a new phone. Can you imagine if we made the decision to buy two of the cheapest Pixel phones? It would end up costing more than our rent.
However, I don't feel like I am because the price has completely turned me off. I'm not sure whether this is actually Google's fault or my fault for expecting to be able to buy device with high-ish specifications for ~$400.
Itis tough to get enthused about what appears to be a fairly unexciting look to the device from most of the photos I have seen. There don't seem to be any extraordinary bells and whistles that make for quick bullet points that help justify the expense. This makes marketing the Pixel a challenge.
Keeping that in mind, I am not sure that the decision to make Verizon an exclusive carrier-retailer was the best way to address the issue of marketing the Pixel phones.... but that's just water under the bridge at this point.
I do think that the choice to use premium materials with premium software and to go with new branding in order to differentiate the approach from the Nexus line is a step in the right direction.... but, I also feel like perhaps google is leaving me behind as a customer even though I have been a mild enthusiast (I owned a G1, and Galaxy Nexus... bought a Nexus S for my then-girlfriend).
In Google's defense, they are hardly the only mobile device manufacturer taking this approach.... Samsung's Galaxy Note 7 was $850.
The wife also needs a new phone. Can you imagine if we made the decision to buy two of the cheapest Pixel phones? It would end up costing more than our rent.
There are Chinese mid grade phones with similar specs at half the price, companies with far smaller budgets than Google and only relying on hardware sales, without the massive profit from advertising. I'm not sure if they match the pixel spec for spec, for example I don't know if any have been released with SD821, but it wouldn't surprise me if they have been released or very soon will be.
In addition, it doesn't matter how much they spent building it, if their business model is flawed. If no one buys it, then it won't matter. I agree with what some others posted that Google is ripping us a bit. It's not much different than Apple ripping us with the 7 though, I'm not playing favorites. Lastly, this is MY opinion on this phone. If you feel it's worth the money I'm NOT knocking you at all, it's still a nice phone with good specs and I k now you really like Google assistant.
Google is starting to get serious about their vertical integration. With the right marketing they could start to turn Samsung's sales over to the Pixel. This may be a bad sign for OEMs since basically Google is pulling out a move from Microsoft's handbook (Surface line). Previously Nexus phones were made in collaboration with OEMs so it was a bit different. This is definitely going to shake up the industry in a good way. I think we may see Samsung starting to push their Tizen platform more.
In the end with the right marketing Google can become a legit competitor in terms of hardware. Google just hasn't spent the money on advertising like Apple.
In the end with the right marketing Google can become a legit competitor in terms of hardware. Google just hasn't spent the money on advertising like Apple.
Agreed with Channan. I'll go one step further. If you're going to make it look like an iPhone, make it look like an iPhone. The "dipped in" look makes it look like a knocked off iPhone.
I just think about what could have been if the Pixel had the look of the current batch of Samsung devices. I don't love their look, but dang it would be a lot better than this.
I just think about what could have been if the Pixel had the look of the current batch of Samsung devices. I don't love their look, but dang it would be a lot better than this.
Well, actually, Apple bet that people would love big screens and the rebooted tablet industry had a good run. Now, iPad sales are declining. As for me, I hardly ever use my iPad anymore. And I mostly see tablets being used to keep kids entertained at restaurants and whatnot.
Samsung bet people would accept big screens on phones. That is still the case, and is part of the reason tablets are not that hot anymore.
Mike
Pretty much. I rarely use my iPad Air 2 now because I have a 5.5" phone. The ipad is more of a laptop replacement for trips now so I really wish Apple would concentrate on making iOS to be able to do more on the iPads.
I have a feeling the larger iPads are a way to transition into full fledged touchscreen mac. The hardware is there with the new A10 chipset and Apple has the design capability. It's been done with Windows so I have a feeling Apple is just waiting to introduce it at the right moment and making sure the user experience is top notch. This could be Tim Cook's breakthrough product. That's not saying this will be a prosumer mac, but for everyday consumers this may be the ultimate computer/tablet.
Why buy a Pixel/XL right now, when you can wait until Black Friday/Christmas and get it for $200 cheaper?
It's a weird parroting of MS surface line up though without the physical store presence. I really don't think MS could have done it without those. Having the pixel at Verizon I suppose is there attempt at a physical presence, but it stinks IMO. When you go to a MS store there is a MS person there to answer all your questions and make you feel like part of the MS family. When you go to Verizon their main concern is opening a line and they could care squat about what phone you purchase, and very often they will have no idea about what one phone is versus another.
I still think if Google wants to be a hardware vendor they should open up their own stores, why not? Microsoft has done it and been successful, and even Amazon is giving it a shot. Google seems to have a decent inventory with all their associated Nest products, their router, the pixel laptops, and of course all the android phones/tablets. They could easily have a fully stocked store. The advantage being Apple like customer service, giving consumers that family like feeling when they walk in, and having educated reps telling consumers why they should buy their products.
Once again I say all this with the confusion of why Google wants to be a hardware vendor. But I also realize they dabble in other hardware as well, and a company should be diversified. But they really need to go all in like MS did with the surface line up.
I haven't had time to read all that much about it yet, but I was very impressed by a Cnet article about the potential for the camera tech Google is introducing. And it is at least splash proof, which is important to me and my lifestyle. Unfortunately, until it comes to AT&T and can therefore become part of my Next upgrade from my 6sPlus, it would be a challenging purchase. But I look forward to learning more about this new smart phone.
At present, for my Next Upgrade options I have been considering IPhone 7, Galaxy S7 and Lg V20. I'll add the smaller sized Pixel to my list (I do admire pocketability when I can get it). I am extremely fortunate in being very happy with my IPhone SE and Note 7 combo and yeah, even my 6S Plus as a tertiary backup, that I need not rush into any purchase but can treat my next purchase as a hobby experiment and take it in my own good time.
I can appreciate this positive-minded thread. Goodness knows there is much about this endeavor that is open to question and criticism. I will abide by the wishes of @Surf Donkey and try to keep my contributions on a positive note and reserve my criticisms and concerns for other threads that address those issues.
So right now...what is exciting to me is a new approach to image stabilization that could potentially reduce the odd artifacts and "jitters" that are currently the bane of OIS in existing flagship smartphones. I think IPhones actually do a very good job controlling this problem vs what I've observed in my Samsung phones. So if this new tech promises to do it even better, I will keep an open mind.
I acknowledge that I have given a thumbs up to comments criticizing various aspects of the Pixel phone implementation, including its looks and design and how it displaces the Nexus as a true tinkerer's phone. But having stated that, so that nobody will accuse me of hypocrisy or bias for positive statements in this thread, I will resolve to contribute positively to this particular discussion as my research and possibly future first hand experience permit.
There has been so much negativity on this forum lately, I hope other forum members will join me in abiding by Surf Donkey's request to keep this thread open to positive discussion.
At present, for my Next Upgrade options I have been considering IPhone 7, Galaxy S7 and Lg V20. I'll add the smaller sized Pixel to my list (I do admire pocketability when I can get it). I am extremely fortunate in being very happy with my IPhone SE and Note 7 combo and yeah, even my 6S Plus as a tertiary backup, that I need not rush into any purchase but can treat my next purchase as a hobby experiment and take it in my own good time.
I can appreciate this positive-minded thread. Goodness knows there is much about this endeavor that is open to question and criticism. I will abide by the wishes of @Surf Donkey and try to keep my contributions on a positive note and reserve my criticisms and concerns for other threads that address those issues.
So right now...what is exciting to me is a new approach to image stabilization that could potentially reduce the odd artifacts and "jitters" that are currently the bane of OIS in existing flagship smartphones. I think IPhones actually do a very good job controlling this problem vs what I've observed in my Samsung phones. So if this new tech promises to do it even better, I will keep an open mind.
I acknowledge that I have given a thumbs up to comments criticizing various aspects of the Pixel phone implementation, including its looks and design and how it displaces the Nexus as a true tinkerer's phone. But having stated that, so that nobody will accuse me of hypocrisy or bias for positive statements in this thread, I will resolve to contribute positively to this particular discussion as my research and possibly future first hand experience permit.
There has been so much negativity on this forum lately, I hope other forum members will join me in abiding by Surf Donkey's request to keep this thread open to positive discussion.
If it was available for T-mobile, I would have used my JOD to give it a try. But nope, Verizon exclusive only in US, and I'm not paying that much to buy it outright unlocked.
Plus I HIGHLY favor the finger print sensor on the front like Samsung and iPhone. Much easier to unlock when it's on dock or a car holder.
Plus I HIGHLY favor the finger print sensor on the front like Samsung and iPhone. Much easier to unlock when it's on dock or a car holder.
I'm right there with ya but much of the industry seems to be trending away from the front facing button so I'm trying to learn to embrace it.
Keep having that feeling but that's not happening anytime soon....Tim cook has held back the iPad and its true capabilities.......I will wait for the next CEO to actually do this
I am trying to remain cautiously optimistic about the Pixel phones. I have wished, basically since my first Galaxy Nexus, for a Android phone with no compromises in hardware or software. And I always knew that, to reach that goal, Google would need to start charging iPhone/Galaxy prices, so the price by itself is not the issue.
I think the current Pixel phones are Google's first attempt at flagship level, in-house (kind of) hardware and it shows. The design of the phones is nice, but not stunning, and there are no extras on the hardware side (with the possible exception of the camera). Google seems to think Google Assistant will sell the hardware. It won't.
But I also think it is ok if these first Pixel phones aren't a crazy success. Google right now just needs to focus on the basics. Instead of trying to cram every high-end feature into the phone it is better that Google start simple and really nail every feature that IS included in the Pixels. That means solid camera, screen, battery life, overall UX experience. Everything I've seen so far suggests they may pull this off. Same thing goes for carriers. Google's previous relationship with the Big two carriers (Verizon and AT&T) have been a disaster. I would have LOVED for the Pixel phones to be available on all carriers (I'm on T-mobile) but I can understand the desire to try to finally have a successful launch with the largest carrier in the US with no terrible Galaxy Nexus/Nexus issues.
Are the phones overpriced right now. Absolutely. My hope is that next year, or perhaps the year after, it won't seem so crazy to spend $650+ on a Google Pixel because Google will keep improving on a single line of phones, rather than starting from scratch every year like they did with the Nexus phones. I loved the cheap Nexus pricing too, but it was a mistake for Google. They devalued android, and they especially devalued stock android to the point that now no one can understand why someone might want to pay good money for a stock android device. It might have been great for us but it was bad for the ecosystem, where only Samsung can make any money off android and no one wants to pay developers for apps because Android represents cheap/budget.
Google is trying to correct that mistake but it isn't going to be easy and it isn't going to happen overnight. My hope is that Google can actually follow through on their plans for once instead of giving up halfway through. We'll just have to wait and see.
I think the current Pixel phones are Google's first attempt at flagship level, in-house (kind of) hardware and it shows. The design of the phones is nice, but not stunning, and there are no extras on the hardware side (with the possible exception of the camera). Google seems to think Google Assistant will sell the hardware. It won't.
But I also think it is ok if these first Pixel phones aren't a crazy success. Google right now just needs to focus on the basics. Instead of trying to cram every high-end feature into the phone it is better that Google start simple and really nail every feature that IS included in the Pixels. That means solid camera, screen, battery life, overall UX experience. Everything I've seen so far suggests they may pull this off. Same thing goes for carriers. Google's previous relationship with the Big two carriers (Verizon and AT&T) have been a disaster. I would have LOVED for the Pixel phones to be available on all carriers (I'm on T-mobile) but I can understand the desire to try to finally have a successful launch with the largest carrier in the US with no terrible Galaxy Nexus/Nexus issues.
Are the phones overpriced right now. Absolutely. My hope is that next year, or perhaps the year after, it won't seem so crazy to spend $650+ on a Google Pixel because Google will keep improving on a single line of phones, rather than starting from scratch every year like they did with the Nexus phones. I loved the cheap Nexus pricing too, but it was a mistake for Google. They devalued android, and they especially devalued stock android to the point that now no one can understand why someone might want to pay good money for a stock android device. It might have been great for us but it was bad for the ecosystem, where only Samsung can make any money off android and no one wants to pay developers for apps because Android represents cheap/budget.
Google is trying to correct that mistake but it isn't going to be easy and it isn't going to happen overnight. My hope is that Google can actually follow through on their plans for once instead of giving up halfway through. We'll just have to wait and see.