Google Mobile Phones

Google launched the Pixel and Pixel XL (first generation) in October 2016 as a successor to the Nexus series. In India, the phones were available for pre-order on Flipkart from October 13. The first generation of Pixel came with a 5’ AMOLED display and a powerful Snapdragon 821 processor. It was sold in 4/32 and 4/128 GB configurations at a starting price tag of INR 22,299.

Google recently launched the Pixel 9 series in three variants- namely the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL. All the phones offer a stock Android experience and promise 7 years' worth of system and security updates. You get the latest and upgraded Tensor G4 chip and up to 16 gigs of RAM with 1 TB of internal storage option for the top model. Google launches a new line-up of Pixel phones every year, based on upgraded processors and better camera systems. 

Pixel phones offer reliable cameras and performance with modern AI features and a clean design layout. Google is known for its smartphone cameras that integrate AI to process and edit images and 4k recordings like no other phone. The latest Pixel 9 Pro model features a triple camera layout with a 50 MP wide, 48 MP periscope telephoto, and 48 MP ultrawide camera lenses. Apart from cameras, Google relies heavily on software updates and UI/UX to offer a stock Android experience. Pixel phones are the first devices to receive any Android updates.

Yes, the Pixel 7 is a value-for-money mid-range smartphone. It is the predecessor of the current Pixel 8 and 9 line-up, and still a powerful device when it comes to cameras and performance. It was a major upgrade from the 6 series, with a new Tensor G2 chip, a larger AMOLED display, and improved battery life. Launched at INR 59,999 in 2022, you can get your hands on a Pixel 7 at INR 32,999 on Flipkart. Based on Android 13, it can be upgraded to Android 14. The only drawback is that you do not get integrated AI features present in the current lineup of Pixel phones.

Pixel 8 was part of the Pixel lineup announced by Google in 2023, offering flagship-level specs and performance. A large 4575 mAh battery with a 120 Hz OLED display and Google Tensor G3 chip make it an attractive choice at its price range. It is a durable smartphone with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus at the front and back, an aluminum frame, and IP68 dust/water resistance. A dual camera 50+12 MP setup that captures crisp shots with natural tones and contrast, along with 4k recording at 60fps and 1080p at 240fps. The Pixel 8 is also competitively priced under 60k for the base variant.

The Pixel 8a is the budget version of the Pixel 8 series, with almost similar performance, cameras, and display. It is not a massive upgrade from the previous 7a, but still a powerful smartphone that integrates with AI tools for a custom, seamless Android experience. The Pixel 8 although has bigger batteries, faster charging, and a more premium design with a glass back finish. If performance and cameras are your main concern, then the Pixel 8a is a more value-for-money option, with a similar Tensor G3 chip and up to 8 GB RAM.

Yes, in some aspects top Pixel models perform better than iPhones in photography and processing. It captures portraits and wide-angle shots with more natural tones and crisp contrast. However, the iPhone beats the Pixel in stabilization, auto-focus, and switching lenses during video recordings. Pixel’s telephoto lens is amazing and you get clearer shots at 5X and 2X zoom. Additionally, Pixel has cool AI tools to process and edit images as you want, offering more freedom and customization.

The Pixel Fold is an innovative book-shaped foldable smartphone that offers flagship-level specs by Google. It is the only flagship foldable in India offering a stock Android experience. Both the 7.6-inch main and 5.8-inch foldable display feature a 120Hz OLED screen with Gorilla Glass Victus. A Tensor G2 chip with 12 GB RAM and up to 512 GB internal storage makes it capable of handling any task. It has also got a large 4821 mAh battery and supports fast charging.