The Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL are the new top Android smartphones announced at Google’s “Made by Google” event in San Francisco. While they have slight aesthetic differences, their hardware is largely similar. However, there are notable distinctions that may confuse consumers. Understanding how the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL differ in hardware and features is crucial. Since the announcement, there have been numerous questions about these smartphones. If you’re considering purchasing Google’s latest flagship but are unsure which variant to choose, this article will simplify your decision-making process. Today, we’ll focus on the Google Pixel 2 XL and address the most frequently asked questions.
Google Pixel 2 XL FAQ: Everything You Need to Know
Google Pixel 2 XL FAQ: General
How much does the Pixel 2 XL cost?
What are the available storage options?
Is the Pixel 2 XL more expensive than the original Pixel XL?
When can I buy the Google Pixel 2 XL?
The Google Pixel 2 XL is available for preorder on the Google online store and will start shipping on November 15th in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, and India.
What are the available color options?
Can I buy the factory unlocked version of the Google Pixel 2 XL?
Yes, the factory unlocked version is currently available for purchase.
Google Pixel 2 XL FAQ: Design and Build
What is the Google Pixel 2 XL made of?
Pixel 2 XL: Bezel-less?
Pixel 2 XL Waterproof?
The Google Pixel 2 XL holds an IP67 rating, implying dust and water resistance at 1 meter depth for 30 minutes. However, it’s not fully waterproof, so avoid submersion.
Pixel 2 XL Thinner?
Pixel 2 XL Heavier?
Affirmative, the Pixel 2 weighs 175 grams, 7 grams more than the original Pixel XL.
Google Pixel 2 XL FAQ: Hardware
Pixel 2 XL Tech Specs?
| Display | 6-inch P-OLED 18:9, 2880 x 1440 pixels, 538 ppi |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 octa-core (4×2.45 GHz Kryo & 4×1.9 GHz Kryo) |
| RAM | 4 GB |
| Storage | 64 / 128 GB |
| Primary Camera | 12.3 MP, f/1.8, OIS and EIS, phase detection & laser autofocus, dual-LED flash |
| Secondary Camera | 8 MP, f/2.4 aperture |
| Battery | 3520 mAh |
| Dust and Water-Resistance | IP67-certified |
| Sensors | Fingerprint scanner, accelerometer, gyro, proximity, barometer |
| Connectivity | LTE-A, Nano SIM slot, eSIM support, GPS, Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, USB-C |
| Dimensions | 157.9 x 76.7 x 7.9 mm |
| Weight | 175 g |
What powers the Pixel 2 XL?
Is 4 GB RAM sufficient for Pixel 2 XL?
Does the Pixel 2 XL feature stereo speakers?
Yes, Pixel 2 XL boasts stereo speakers, enhancing audio, a feature absent in the original Pixel XL.
Is there a fingerprint scanner on the Pixel 2 XL?
Yes, akin to its predecessor, the new Google Pixel 2 XL sports a dedicated fingerprint scanner on its back, touted by Google as the fastest among smartphones.
Google Pixel 2 XL FAQ: Cameras
Has the Pixel 2 XL’s camera improved?
Does Google Pixel 2 XL have a dual-camera setup?
Does Pixel 2 XL’s camera feature OIS?
Have video recordings improved on Google Pixel 2 XL?
Video recording has improved with stabilization on the Pixel 2 XL’s camera now equipped with OIS, working alongside Electronic Image Stabilization for super-stabilized footage. However, the recorded video maintains the same resolution and frame rate as the original Pixel.
Does the Pixel 2 XL feature a Portrait mode like the new iPhones?
Has the Pixel 2 XL’s selfie camera improved?
Is there Portrait mode on Pixel 2 XL’s front-facing camera?
Yes, the Pixel 2 XL’s front camera also supports portrait mode, enabling the capture of great selfies with shallow depth of field. However, achieving the bokeh effect heavily depends on software-based face identification algorithms.
Google Pixel 2 XL FAQ: Battery and Charging
Has the battery life improved?
Pixel 2 XL Wireless Charging Support
Regrettably, the Pixel 2 XL, similar to its predecessors, lacks wireless charging functionality.
Fast Charging Compatibility
Is Additional Hardware Necessary for Fast Charging?
No, Google includes a fast charger with the Pixel 2 XL, eliminating the need for any supplementary purchases to utilize fast charging.
Google Pixel 2 XL FAQ: Display
Pixel 2 XL Display Resolution
Pixel 2 XL P-OLED Display
Pixel 2 XL Always-On Display
Yes, the Pixel 2 XL features an always-on display, operating similarly to those found in other Android flagships such as the Samsung Galaxy S8 and Galaxy Note 8.
Pixel 2 XL Screen-to-Body Ratio
The Google Pixel 2 XL boasts a remarkable screen-to-body ratio of around 76.4%, surpassing the original Pixel XL.
Frequently Asked Questions about Google Pixel 2 XL: Software
Which Android version ships with the Google Pixel 2 XL?
Does the Pixel 2 XL run stock Android?
Does the Pixel 2 XL support Augmented Reality?
Is additional hardware necessary for Augmented Reality?
No extra hardware is needed; the new Pixel 2 XL offers the Augmented Reality experience independently.
Does the Pixel 2 XL support Google Lens?
Does the Pixel 2 XL include HTC U11’s Squeeze feature?
Will Pixel 2 XL receive long-term software updates?
Google consistently delivers software updates and security patches for Nexus and Pixel devices long-term. At the Pixel 2 launch event, the tech giant guaranteed three years of updates for both new Pixel 2 smartphones.
Google Pixel 2 XL: Connectivity
Will Pixel 2 XL support LTE-A and Carrier Aggregation in the U.S.?
Will Pixel 2 XL support Reliance Jio’s VoLTE services in India?
Reliance Jio uses 1800 MHz, 850 MHz, and 2300 MHz frequency bands for LTE across India, all supported by Google Pixel 2 XL. Users can thus utilize the company’s VoLTE services on Google’s latest flagship.
Does Pixel 2 XL support dual-SIM cards?
Pixel 2 XL eSIM Compatibility
Pixel 2 XL Headphone Jack Presence
Pixel 2 XL Bluetooth 5.0 Support
Pixel 2 XL microSD Card Slot
The new Google Pixel 2 XL lacks an expandable microSD card slot, similar to previous Nexus and Pixel devices from Google.
Google Pixel 2 XL USB-OTG Support
Yes, like its predecessor, the new Google Pixel 2 supports USB-OTG. Google includes a quick switch adapter, facilitating easy data transfer from iPhones and other Android smartphones.
Google Pixel 2 XL: Key Information
Interested in Google’s larger smartphone offering? To address any uncertainties about the latest flagship, explore our comprehensive Pixel 2 XL FAQ. While not revolutionary, the Pixel 2 XL boasts significant improvements such as an enhanced camera, IP67 certification, and features like Augmented Reality and Google Lens. For unparalleled Android experience, consider this device. Have we covered all your queries about the Pixel 2 XL, or is there more you’d like to know? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Pritam Chopra is a seasoned IT professional and a passionate blogger hailing from the dynamic realm of technology. With an insatiable curiosity for all things tech-related, Pritam has dedicated himself to exploring and unraveling the intricacies of the digital world.
