Here’s what we know about the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL: Everything

Image: raymond wong/mashable

Google’s upcoming Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL smartphones might be the most leaked devices in history (except for that time someone from Apple left an unreleased iPhone in a bar).

It’s a given Google will make its new flagship phones official at an event on Oct. 9. Mashable’s Raymond Wong and Pete Pachal will be on site for the news, but it’s pretty safe to say we know what’s coming. Like, exactly what’s coming.

Over the past few months, almost everything about the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL has leaked. And we’re not just talking about blurry pics and unconfirmed rumors; official devices in retail packaging have already shipped ahead of the official unveiling.

So here’s what we already know about the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL, which is pretty much everything.

A similar design

The new Pixel phones have similar form factors to the Pixel 2 phones, but the most significant change is the addition of a notch to the larger Pixel 3 XL, which will have a 6.5-inch display. It appears that Google hasn’t yet mastered the art of a small notch since the one on the Pixel 3 XL is fairly big. On the back, you’ll get a single-lens camera as well as a fingerprint sensor.

While the XL will get closer to bezel-less display, the smaller Pixel 3 will keep a traditional smartphone design, with a “forehead” and “chin” and no notch. The pro here is that stereo speakers will still be on both. Keeping the chin in 2018 is a little strange, though.

Top-notch hardware

There has been a ton of Pixel 3 and 3 XL use in the wild. Someone left one of the phones in a Lyft, and a blogger from the Ukraine has shared specs and full unboxing video. Now, with the early-shipped devices out there, the Pixel 3 XL has even been fully reviewed.

Here are the key details: The Pixel 3 and 3XL run Android 9 Pie with an 8-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 processor. Additionally, it will also have an Adreno 630 chip for graphics.

From the photo above and Engadget’s early hands-on, both Pixels will have dual-front facing cameras. The effect will likely be a wider field of view which is similar to the LG V40 ThinQ. And yes, this means better group selfies. Google will definitely throw in some new camera features made possible by software as well.

2018 might be the year that the Pixel line gets wireless charging support, MySmartPrice has obtained a photo of a so-called Pixel Stand. The charger will use a USB-C plug for fast charging and prop the Pixel up. When the device is docked a new user interface will appear with quick actions for playing music, making phone calls, and using the Google Assistant.

Headphones in the box

Google didn’t include a free pair of headphones in the box with the Pixel 2 or 2 XL. Instead, the company began pushing wireless PixelBuds. Essentially the companies rebuttal to Apple’s AirPods that feel a little short.

However, for the Pixel 3 and 3 XL, owners can expect to get a pair of wired PixelBuds included in the box.

Availability

Here’s the one thing we don’t know for sure. Chances are Google will keep its existing partnership with Verizon for the Pixel 3 and 3 XL, meaning that the only carrier to directly offer Google’s flagship will be big red. However, the Google Store will sell unlocked versions that work on other networks, including AT&T and T-Mobile.

Adding more weight to a launch happening soon, Engadget was able to get a Pixel 3 XL from HongKong retailer WahPhone Digital since they’re already selling the phones. The hands-on showed off a “Just Black” Pixel 3 XL and wired PixelBuds. 

We only have a few more hours to wait before Google makes everything official. A Home Hub and a Pixel tablet are set to also make their debuts. In the meantime, this teaser should hold you over.