Droid Life

Get a Pixel or Pixel XL? Share Your Initial Impressions!

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If you pre-ordered the Pixel or Pixel XL from Verizon, there is a good chance that you received your device yesterday. If you ordered from Google, well, I’d be surprised if you did since orders really only started shipping yesterday. Still, we want to hear those initial impressions from those of you who have been rockin’ the Pixel for the past day or so.

Which did you go with – Pixel or XL? Which color? Is it everything you dreamed of? How’s the camera? Battery life OK, so far? Using Google Assistant? What’s performance like?

Let us know in the comments below!

Comments

261 responses to “Get a Pixel or Pixel XL? Share Your Initial Impressions!”

  1. kmdavisjr Avatar
    kmdavisjr

    I have an XL and Ambient Display has a bug that google has identified and supposedly going to fix. It does not work at all for me. Kind of frustrating after moving over from the Nexus 6 where I relied on it extensively.

  2. Ryan Smith Avatar
    Ryan Smith

    I have the 32gb black pixel. For the most part, I love it. However, one big problem I’ve noticed is the loose volume rocker. It isn’t as bad as the one on the 5x, but I expect a $700 phone to have much better build quality.

  3. Mr. Peanutbutter Avatar
    Mr. Peanutbutter

    Fedex delivered my black 32gb today. Coming from a Nexus 5 it is a night and day difference. The “new” stock Google is something I will have to get used to. The rounded icons are really throwing me off. Have not tried the camera yet, but as long as it is better than the Nexus 5’s camera that’s all that matters. The AMOLED display is a little weird coming from a SLCD. I might get used to it. This phone is by far the fastest android device I’ve ever laid hands on. It’s not quite iPhone fast, but it is so close only a nerd like me would notice something like that. Radio performance(RF or cellular reception) is also superior than my Nexus 5 AND my moto G3 – this surprises me! Google assistant seems to be “smarter” than the good ole’ Google Now. Maybe a few weeks of use will make her more intuitive… We’ll see. Build quality is absolutely superb. I can’t even tell HTC was involved with this phone and that is a good thing. It is nothing like an iPhone either. Not sure what to compare it to. So far so good. They only thing I’m really not liking is switching over to USB C. Now I will finally be forced to replace all my old chargers after managing to avoid doing so for nearly 3 years. Was it worth $800(also added Google protection plan)? We will see…

  4. Mario Avatar
    Mario

    Looking forward to the second generation pixel not impressed with this one.

  5. Kev1972 Avatar
    Kev1972

    Love it. I had the S6 Edge and the Pixel XL blows it out of the water. The WiFi pretty much sux where I work at and the S6 Edge was extremely slow when I was connected to it. With the Pixel XL it seems I have better reception and pretty fast. Just like some of the previous posts have said, when the Pixel is sitting on a desk, if you have to use the fingerprint scanner to wake the phone, or push the power button. Other than that I love it and so glad I got it. Best phone I have ever had.

  6. Killsmetosay Avatar
    Killsmetosay

    White Pixel here, and I am in love with this phone coming from gs7 that I will not miss. I got the phone from Verizon and to my amazement there was absolutely no Verizon related apps on the phone….. Just wanted to know if any one else notice that.

    1. Kev1972 Avatar
      Kev1972

      Verizon messenger was on mine, but I was able to uninstall it. You wouldn’t know it came from Verizon.

      1. Killsmetosay Avatar
        Killsmetosay

        Really very proud of Verizon.

  7. yungqb7 Avatar
    yungqb7

    Can’t wait to get my Pixel XL 128GB. Anyone have any recommendations for glass screen protectors?

  8. Sinn Avatar
    Sinn

    Wow. Interesting. Feels like half the comments are from ex-Note 7 users. Pixel XL, IPhone 7+ and even LG V20 or Droid Force will sell a bit beyond expectations this quarter. I read somewhere that about 1.5 million Note 7s were sold in the U.S in the month it was sold.

    1. Sinn Avatar
      Sinn

      Judging by the comments looks like Moto is also loosing a lot of customers to Pixel. Being kind of an ex-Moto fan-boy, and owning two Motos in the past (Have been happy with my experience), I think Moto/Lenovo kind of deserve loosing some customers with the demise of their over all lineup, customer service and update situation in the past two years.
      Also I hope Google will be able to solve the update situation with the None-Google android phones in the next year or two. I hope Android phones will go more towards the situation with Chromebooks, and you would be sure no matter what android phone you get, it’s gonna get updates at least for three years, and hopefully even more.

  9. Billy Cury Avatar
    Billy Cury

    Got mine 2 days early via Google! So far my Pixel XL is the best Android phone I’ve used by far! Well worth the $$

  10. razerlite Avatar
    razerlite

    Because the volume buttons are on the right side, they aren’t intuitive when using the phone in landscape mode.

    (The left button raises the volume instead of lowering and the right button lowers instead of raising). Annoying.

    1. Ismail Akram Avatar
      Ismail Akram

      every smartphone OEM have its own placements of power button and volume keys and if you coming from Nexus its intuitive but if you coming from Samsung or iPhone then you might be right. I never liked iPhone or Samsung key placements cuz I’ve used HTC, Motorola phones a lot… but I’ve used Samsung phones and a lot of them but not each for more than a month. and LG G4 keys at back were most intuitive even no one expects thats keys are there .

  11. Justin Martin Avatar
    Justin Martin

    When I first got my Pixel I’ll say it was fast, but it didn’t blow me away. This morning I took it off the charge, and oh my goodness. This thing flies. Not sure why it took a couple days to settle in, but this thing rocks!!!

  12. Luis Lainez Avatar
    Luis Lainez

    Ordered the XL black, 32G from Google, got mine on the 20th. The phone is absolutely amazing, so ridiculously smooth, and it feels great in the hand. The speaker isn’t as great as the 6p’s speakers and for some reason it doesn’t have lift to wake ambient display, maybe it’ll get it later in a software update or something. Aside from that, everything else is a positive in this phone. The camera is amazing, and after watching a few water tests on YouTube I think it’s a bit more water resistant than we initially thought. Sure it has a low rating, but in one video it survived half an hour under water and in another it survived one whole hour. The display is absolutely gorgeous, and the design is very beautiful. I’m in love with this phone.

  13. David Weston Avatar
    David Weston

    Black 128GB Pixel XL. Very happy with the phone! Had the Note 7 and I don’t miss the curved glass screen at all. My tempered glass screen protector actually fits great! Wish the phone was waterproof and had front facing stereo speakers…. Maybe next time. For the first Pixel, Google did a great job. I am running Nova with Pixel features like the Swipe up app drawer available on the beta version. Pixel launcher is decent, but Nova just offers so much more customization. Solid device.

    1. keith_ecko Avatar
      keith_ecko

      I will likely try the phone without Nova but I’ve always installed it at some point on my last 4 phones, 3 of them being Samsung. It always seemed to speed things up a bit but that was because Touchwiz. Have you noticed this with the Pixel XL? Does Google Assistant still work with Nova? Mine won’t be in hand until the 28th.

      1. David Weston Avatar
        David Weston

        Google Assistant still works fine if you run Nova. I actually just switched back to the stock Pixel Launcher to give it another try. It has been working out pretty well. I figured one reason I bought this device was to give what Google has to offer a chance, and I should do so by using their version. I did enable developer options (by tapping the build number in settings multiple times) and reduced all the animation speeds to 0.5x vs the 1.0x default which made the phone run a bit faster. Good luck with your device, I’m sure you will be quite pleased. I honestly love the phone. It works very well.

        1. keith_ecko Avatar
          keith_ecko

          Yea I’m definitely going to give it a whirl without Nova…I just find myself going back to it. Even on the Moto Z (First Note 7 replacement) and stock Android, I, used it and thought it made the phone allot more fun. Thanks for the information.

  14. briandr Avatar
    briandr

    Can no longer tether on Cricket. All previous Nexus devices had no problem tethering, now it checks for a tethering plan. Feels pretty customer hostile when they nearly doubled the price of the phones and removed old functionality.

    1. distortedloop Avatar
      distortedloop

      Well, this isn’t a Nexus, is it? We’ll all be happier with the device if we keep that in mind…

      1. briandr Avatar
        briandr

        I will expand it to all unlocked phones I have tried then, including the Asus Zenfone and Sony Xperia lines. None of them check for a tethering plan, so this an annoying restriction being added. And no it’s not a Nexus but since Google replaced Nexus with pixel that is what people are going to naturally compare it with.

        1. distortedloop Avatar
          distortedloop

          But that’s the rub, Google DIDN’T “replace” the Nexus with the Pixel. They didn’t say that, did they? They never have that I recall.

          They announced a NEW product line, supposedly designed by them from the ground up to new priorities. There was NO mention of the Nexus in the Pixel announcement. It might be semantics, but just because they’ve abandoned one line of phones and started a new one doesn’t make the new one a replacement for the old.

          Nexus was a reference device, a developer phone, it was, for the most part not a general public phone. You never saw adverts on television for a Nexus device. The Pixel is heavily advertised to the general public, it’s intended to be a consumer phone, not a developer phone.

          Pixel isn’t everything I’d have hoped for, but nothing it’s lacking is a deal breaker for me. Re: tethering, not a concern for me, my TMobile account has a second sim for a cheap hotspot at just $10 per month for unlimited data.

          Peace!

          1. briandr Avatar
            briandr

            Why are you getting so bent out of shape about this? I am allowed to have an opinion. I never said Google pitched pixel as the new nexus. It’s a Google device released in October which runs the latest Google version of Android and is going to continue to run the latest version until their support end date…. It’s basically a nexus that their marketing Dept decided to rename so they could charge more. Anyways I liked it enough to buy one and I plan on keeping it, I’m just disappointed that they restricted tethering on an unlocked phone which they have never done before.

            I can add tethering to my plan for $10 too, that’s not the problem. Paying for the tethering feature that I rarely use on my plan does not get me any extra data or anything, they are just artificially restricting usage of the data I already purchase.

          2. distortedloop Avatar
            distortedloop

            I was having a discussion. Seems like you’re the one “getting out of shape” because I have a different opinion. Chill out, dude… You win. Feel better now?

  15. Dan Avatar
    Dan

    I’m not thrilled with a few things, mainly the absence of a home button, my finger keeps going there. I have owned a note since the conception of it and I have to tell you I am really missing my Note 7 I agree with other users below that the software is polished and fast but I’m missing some of Samsung’s other unique features also I should mention the camera is definitely slightly better than the Samsung accept I do not like the filename convention which now I’ll have to write a batch file to change every time I upload or backup my photos. Also is it just me or do you really have to push on that power button on the side of the phone I definitely miss my home screen button. I must say I’m using the voice recognition at the moment and it is Light Years better than Samsung.

    1. distortedloop Avatar
      distortedloop

      Most of us got over the physical home button years ago. Pretty much just a Samsung and Apple thing ever since Google took us down the on screen button path several Nexus models ago… You’ll adapt quickly enough.

    2. SewWhat Avatar
      SewWhat

      If you’ll use the fingerprint scanner to unlock your phone it’ll soon become second nature when you pick it up and your home button longings will be left behind. I miss physical/tactile buttons myself , mostly because I use my devices with astronomy apps as one of my hobbies is amature astronomy and it’s really hit and miss the apps consistently supporting the onscreen buttons hiding themselves in reddened night mode. Even that little bit of white light kills your dark adaption when you’re observing in the dark.

  16. Art Avatar
    Art

    Excellent. Really enjoying it. Extremely polished OS and user experience. One downside from a former Note 7 owner is screen on time has dropped from about six hours to about four. But this is a good phone.

  17. ShadyBrady Avatar
    ShadyBrady

    Preordered/received the black 32gb from Verizon. Had 6P before this. I must say, I am super impressed. It is smooth as butter, and the battery life astonishing! Finally, great battery life with the way I use my phone!

  18. gabravo2005 Avatar
    gabravo2005

    I don’t have it YET, but I’m really teetering on biting down and getting one. I went into the Verizon store and I LOVE how the XL has the same screen size as the iPhone Pluses but the over all is still smaller. It also feels better in hand than an iPhone. Although in the end I might settle for the regular Pixel. I just can’t justify an extra hundred bucks for an extra half inch of screen and 4k resolution.

    1. Kellin Brown Avatar
      Kellin Brown

      No 4k resolution, WQHD is actually 2K while 4K is UHD. Stupid I know so Pixel is 1920×1080 and XL is 2560×1440. I have had the Pixel pre ordered since the 7th and today I just able to order the XL with the same ship date. After reading through this I think I am just going to cancel the XL and stick with my initial instinct. smaller is better

  19. Rich West Avatar
    Rich West

    Pixel XL in Silver 128. So far, excellent fit and finish (hardware and software). You can tell the design process considered tight integration of hardware and software was front of mind.

  20. person Avatar
    person

    I think I’m finally done worrying about battery life. No matter what crazy SoT has been reported for a device, I’ve never reliably gotten a phone over 3hrs (no wake locks, rogue apps) yet after that long the Pixel XL is still over 50%. Yesterday I had 5.5hrs SoT before the battery got to 30%. Color me Very Impressed.

    1. Godzilla Avatar
      Godzilla

      Way too many variables in a person’s life to worry about battery life. Just have a charger in your car, in your work, and in your home and call it a day.

      1. keith_ecko Avatar
        keith_ecko

        Agreed! I have never understood the battery life issue. I have several chargers in the house, in the car, garage and work. If I’m away I have several Anker portable chargers. With the advent of quick charge I don’t recall my batter ever getting below 40%-50% at the end of the night. Maybe I’m an exception, It’s just second nature to throw it on the charge if I am not using my phone.

    2. ShadyBrady Avatar
      ShadyBrady

      This! Absolutely, this! Same here man!

  21. ck125 Avatar
    ck125

    Will be interesting to see how it holds up over time or if it succumbs to android and begins to lag like every android.

    1. Godzilla Avatar
      Godzilla

      Every android? Ive had a couple phones, The moto X 2 and 3 that didnt pick up the lag you seem to think they do.

      1. ck125 Avatar
        ck125

        Yes every android. Even the might 6p developed lots of issues.

        1. Godzilla Avatar
          Godzilla

          Every phone, not just android.

          1. ck125 Avatar
            ck125

            Yes, with android it just seems to happen quicker. I mean look at the 6p. The pixel is looking promising, and hopefully it stays that way

  22. Tom Luley Avatar
    Tom Luley

    Too bad most of us that got it from the Google Store haven’t gotten it yet. Thanks Verizon and Google…

    1. Godzilla Avatar
      Godzilla

      The release date was a day ago……….a day ago……..i say again………a day ago

  23. droidarmy Avatar
    droidarmy

    Foxfi work with the pixel?

    1. Godzilla Avatar
      Godzilla

      who the hell needs foxfi anymore?

    2. bsteen Avatar
      bsteen

      No, and this was one of the biggest disappointments. No more free tethering with UDP unless someone figures out how to root Verizon version.

  24. Android Developer Avatar
    Android Developer

    Are there screen gestures when it’s turned off, like double-tap-to-wake ?

    1. bsteen Avatar
      bsteen

      Nope on double tap. But ok Google does respond with screen off. And double click power button will launch camera even with screen off.

  25. bsteen Avatar
    bsteen

    Got it from Verizon. Verizon bloat deleted (not just disabled!). No Verizon branding anywhere. So be interesting to see if this differs from Google version in anyway. That said… Nice phone, but I really miss my note 7.

    1. cadtek91 Avatar
      cadtek91

      Really the only differences should be are the major OS updates from Verizon and the locked bootloader.

    2. ShadyBrady Avatar
      ShadyBrady

      ‘OEM unlock’ is greyed out in developer settings. Cannot be selected.

  26. Jeff Schmitt Avatar
    Jeff Schmitt

    Been using mine for three days now and have to say it’s an awesome phone. I did make some tweaks to it to better fit my needs and find its lasting me power wise longer than I thought it would. The one thing I miss coming from a Moto x 2014 is the ambient display is not up to par with Moto. Will take getting used to. Did enable the led light to help with notifications.

    1. Shawn John Avatar
      Shawn John

      Same here, #1 being I didn’t port over all the apps I had on my N5. their listed in my Gplay account I will install as needed, didn’t want to over burden the phone with a bunch of apps that i barely use everyday chewing away at my battery. Just refreshing to experience longer battery life now instead of having my phone plugged up charging all the time like a land line.

      1. ShadyBrady Avatar
        ShadyBrady

        Same thing happened to me. Haven’t had that happen in a LONG time. Except I wanted ALL my previous apps. Took forever to download one by one, ugh.

  27. Shawn John Avatar
    Shawn John

    I just hope google doesn’t switch up and ditch the Pixel line in 2 years and do us like they did the Nexus (R.I.P). Looking to sell my 2014 N5 still in the Box, never used, saved it for a spare phone in the event something happened to the one I was using.

    As for now this PXL is the business. Does what it says on the box.

  28. NexusMan Avatar
    NexusMan

    Slightly off topic, but FYI if anyone preordered a Google Home from Google, or is planning on getting one, Best Buy now also has it available for preorder. I mention this because I actually just cancelled my Google preorder and ordered from Best Buy instead. Why? In addition to getting Rewards points through Best Buy, and having a Best Buy gift certicate I used to bring my actual cost down, as of this afternoon Best Buy was guaranteeing release date delivery which they say is Friday 11/4, meanwhile my Google preorder done over a week ago still lists an estimated delivery of 11/8 – 11/10. Unbelievable.

    1. Shawn John Avatar
      Shawn John

      You’ve got remember those dates is usually the no later than date and they usually ship before that, they give you that date in the event they don’t get it out to you earlier you can atleast expect it by that date.

      1. NexusMan Avatar
        NexusMan

        Yes, but it has been my experience in the past, and many people now with the Pixel who did not choose expedited delivery, that Google has often not delivered preordered items on launch day. That aside, unlike Google’s estimate “in the event” things don’t work out, Best Buy is actually guaranteeing a hard delivery of 11/4.

        1. Shawn John Avatar
          Shawn John

          The Only Guaranteed delivery is if they have it in store already, nothing is guaranteed. Just like today with all these authority sites being DDosed, I bet they had hardware that guaranteed to not be attacked. lol. I hear you though, best buy usually is on top of their arrangements.

          1. NexusMan Avatar
            NexusMan

            Before you order, you can select to see when it will be delivered, it told me, very specifically, it will be delivered by Friday 11/4, release day. After placing my order, it again confirmed I will have it delivered by Friday, 11/4, release day. They don’t arbitrarily pick those dates. As someone with a history of ordering from Best Buy, Google and Verizon. My Best Buy and Verizon delivery confirmations have never been incorrect. Best Buy already has a certain amount of product guaranteed in their inventory and they base their confirmations off of that and their knowledge of when and where their actual stock became or will be on hand. It’s been my past experience that they usually expedite it to me the day before release, for next day delivery.

          2. NexusMan Avatar
            NexusMan

            Best Buy shipped it on 11/2, and it is being delivered via UPS to my house on launch day, Friday 11/4, as originally guaranteed. I’m excited.

        2. distortedloop Avatar
          distortedloop

          Even some of us who ordered Pixel in the first hour after available that selected expedited shipping don’t have them yet. Mine isn’t arriving until Monday. Kind of irks me that I wasted $20 on expedited shipping. Monday was the expected date with standard shipping if I recall correctly.

  29. J Harrell Avatar
    J Harrell

    Silver XL here and I did get it yesterday (purchased through the play store). Being that its smaller than my 6P (and caseless still), I’m surprised at how light it feels in comparison. Otherwise, I have the same apps between ’em and response speeds are pretty similar but the XL does feel a bit snappier.

    I need to see if it’ll play better with my car’s mic than my 6P did, I’m still not sure why calls go through the phone’s microphone rather than the car’s, especially on Android Auto.

  30. king of the thing Avatar
    king of the thing

    Quite black XL 128 from Verizon here. Absolutely loving it. Coming from 2 different Note 7s. Note 7 was mildly great, great features and a bunch of stuff you can’t get anywhere else but I definitely had “jank” and performance hiccups on a daily basis. I actually would call my fingerprint sensor experience sub par. I would RARELY have time where it recognized on the first try. However with the Pixel it is a completely different story. Performance is flawless and haven’t even had one time where the Pixel imprint didn’t recognize my finger. Couldn’t be happier.

    1. ShadyBrady Avatar
      ShadyBrady

      My brother had the Note 7, and he said every time he washed his hands, the reader wouldn’t work. He thinks it’s because his hands were too dry. Once he put lotion on, it worked every time after. Weird.

      1. Prototype Avatar
        Prototype

        It puts the lotion on its skin…

        1. Mr. Peanutbutter Avatar
          Mr. Peanutbutter

          or else it gets the hose again?

  31. Beardr8 Avatar
    Beardr8

    For all the people who have the phone, how well does the camera perform in lowlight? Curious how it stacks up against the Nexus 6p, which in my opinion with hdr+ on was the best lowlight camera out there.

  32. ziPRR Avatar
    ziPRR

    I ordered 4 (2x Pixel, 2x PixelXL) and they all arrived yesterday. So far so good!

  33. olivrstal Avatar
    olivrstal

    Is it just me or does the Nexus 6P make superior photos?
    The photos from my Pixel do seem to have a very slight green/yellowish tint in comparison and the Pixel camera tends to overexpose a bit.
    I’m very confused actually. Not sure if it’s just my phone or that’s just the way it is.
    Here are some examples:
    https://goo.gl/photos/z6eseneFAT8DQrbu7

    I really would like to keep the phone cause I really like it otherwise, but the photo comparison (on a desktop with a decent monitor) makes me want to stick with my 6P for another year.
    Guess I have to contact the support, show em the pics and see what they say…

    1. Godzilla Avatar
      Godzilla

      Its just you, every single review ive read puts the camera right up there with samsung.

      1. olivrstal Avatar
        olivrstal

        I know about the reviews, but did u actually viewed the photos I posted or compared the cameras yourself?
        With “is it just me” I actually meant if it’s just my Pixel phone or if other people have similar results.
        I’m not implying the camera is bad, just that the already marvelous camera of the 6P seem to make clearly better photos than the Pixel I received.

    2. distortedloop Avatar
      distortedloop

      I looked at your comparisons.. Not sure which camera was each shot, but in most of your pictures, the second shot, on the right as I viewed them on my phone, had better color reproduction. The indoor shot the servings shot was much more grainy and therefore less visually appealing. Can you clarify which was which?

      1. olivrstal Avatar
        olivrstal

        U can click on the round “i” info button to see which camera was used. (Tap on the photo first, to see it.) In term of color reproduction it’s actually close. I would say often the Pixel is the close winner, though it definitely has a slight green/yellowish tint as u can see in the indoor shot. (Maybe that’s a white balance thing? Dunno.) Whatsoever, my main problem is that it tends to overexpose a bit, which is (imo) very obvious especially in the photos I put in this folder. I did take some shots where the results are very similar, but overall the 6P with its excellent camera takes better shots imo. I really like to keep this well build and snappy phone, but the photo comparison really gives me a hard time doing so. Actually seems like I will hang another year with my 6P and then eventually get the Pixel 2 (and then probably the XL).

    3. ChaseCrewDad Avatar
      ChaseCrewDad

      Looking at your photos, I understand what you are saying, but the Pixel pictures are better. For one, the Pixel pics have more detail. The 6P pics look a bit muddy, but that’s only because they’re being compared to a better camera. Also, the color is more accurate as the 6P is more saturated in most of the pics. The only picture I would take issue with is the one with the keys in it, but that was the camera not adjusting properly to the lighting type. With manual control, this is easy to fix, but most people will understandably want the camera to just work. I’d be interested in seeing that picture retaken and if the results are consistently the same, another picture in the same lighting, but a different subject/scene.

      1. olivrstal Avatar
        olivrstal

        Thanks for taking the time! Could you please point out where the photos from the Pixel have more detail, cause I actually don’t see that. In fact when I zoom in, most often the 6P photos are more sharp and seem to show more detail.
        I would say yeah, you are probably right the color accuracy. The Pixel would probably be the winner here if there wasn’t the overexposure issue. I now added more pictures to the album where the issue becomes very obvious. The best results I actually get from the camera when I have it on HDR+ On. Unfortunately it doesn’t stay in the last mode u used like the 6P does, but it always goes back to HDR+ Auto the next time I open the camera app. Do you know if there is a way too always keep it on HDR+ On?

  34. calculatorwatch Avatar
    calculatorwatch

    Got the smaller Pixel and the battery life has still been impressive. Not amazing or anything when using it. I suspect it will get about 4 hours of SOT on a typical day. It just sips power when the screen is off though so there are no worries at all about it dieing in your pocket.

    1. tnt Avatar
      tnt

      Ditto. Plus it charges crazy fast due to the smaller battery size.

  35. Tutaina Avatar
    Tutaina

    My XL quite silver is quite slippery.

  36. Brushrop03 Avatar
    Brushrop03

    Ughhhh. Can’t hold home button to take screenshot anymore.

    1. NexusMan Avatar
      NexusMan

      Throwback.

  37. G5 Avatar
    G5

    Black. XL 128. Love it!!!! Regular person/user here. Not pro’s like you guys. But a phone nut.
    First, the absolute best part is scanner on back. Don’t know why people here are saying”but on my desk”. Who cares about your stupid desk at work!! How about the 90% of the rest of the time when its perfect to have it on the back. But people will complain about anything i guess. Work sucks. So anything done at work sucks also. Mine actually is a work phone but could care less about picking off desk. I want the button to be in the right place for the rest(majority) of the time. You guys want is easy at work but then suffer every other time. Do you hear yourselves. Almost as bad as the Capacative people saying those hard keys are better.

    Phone flies. Perfect size. And don’t even notice the “chins” you guys had me all worried about. Once in hand you know it’s the phone to have. No more hearing about Samdungs hopefully soon. This is the phone. period !!!

  38. Jake Montague Avatar
    Jake Montague

    Hey guys Costco has a promotion for a $225 costco cash card when getting a S7 edge which i want. Will be sweet to get that cash card, but at the same time i played with the pixel xl it was sweet and i like the daydream vr part of the phone. Need suggestions iPhone user switching here. Haven’t used android since S3 (jelly bean).

    1. Jeff "BIG RED" Avatar
      Jeff “BIG RED”

      Go with the pixel xl. You won’t be disappointed.

    2. Brushrop03 Avatar
      Brushrop03

      that costco card sounds nice. I would go with the Edge to be honest just for that reason. That’s a very good deal. Samsung also has VR and probably more robust library. with the $225 discount, I honestly can’t say the Pixel is worth the premium.

      But if money ain’t no thing, go into a Verizon store and try out the Pixel and S7 Edge. Both are different experiences due to the UI. Both great phones.

    3. Rod Avatar
      Rod

      Don’t get a Samsung.

    4. Shawn John Avatar
      Shawn John

      The PXL is butter, you won’t be disappointed. Battery life is decent and the phone zips. Camera is great.

    5. edwoordd Avatar
      edwoordd

      One plus 3

    6. Sinn Avatar
      Sinn

      I say go for a Pixel. As far as consistency/cleanness of the software and getting updates for 3 at least years, I am predicting, coming from an IPhone, Pixel would be a better choice.
      Samsung has to and will step up their game in the software department in their next releases, also I am optimistic that Viv (the Smart Assistance they just bought) might end up being better, more open/capable than Siri and Google Assistance.
      So I say go for the Pixel this time, and who knows, may be for your next phone Samsung will be better, you might go back to IPhone or stick to the Pixel for another decade. 🙂

  39. BruthaBeige Avatar
    BruthaBeige

    I have mine. Very silver in 32GB (took advantage of that chromecast/$100 gift card deal from best buy). I love the device and only have 2 issues. I want to be able to double-tap to wake, and there is some weird issue with the design where it pulls my hair if I am talking on the phone. There is a micro gap between the glass and metal at the corners and hair will get in there and get pulled. Good thing I am bald, I just didnt shave that day. Also, a case will fix that issue.

  40. tnt Avatar
    tnt

    Has anybody had luck transferring from an iPhone? For whatever reason it’s not starting the process and allowing me to transfer stuff from my iPhone…

    1. BruthaBeige Avatar
      BruthaBeige

      I was able to just fine, but I left off the photos because I had 8GB of those and they had already synced to dropbox.

      1. tnt Avatar
        tnt

        I figured it out (thanks to Google’s new chat support…). I skipped all the initial setup stuff, and that’s where it installs the “device transfer tool” or whatever it’s called. So a FDR and going through the initial setup properly got it going again.

  41. teschall Avatar
    teschall

    Black Pixel XL here. One thing I’ve noticed is that its nice to not have to install a bunch of apps to make the phone function in a certain way. It just feels more visually and functionally complete to me.

  42. Brushrop03 Avatar
    Brushrop03

    Got my XL yesterday. Upgrading from the 6P. After a few hours here are some of my thoughts:
    ++Ergonomics aren’t as good as 6P. For whatever reason it feels heavier although smaller. Also the power and volume rocker are too high on the Pixel, so you have to grasp the entire phone. Fingerprint scanner is relatively higher as well. 6P had the buttons just right imo.
    ++Display is noticeably better than the 6P
    ++Speakers are actually decent for mono. 6P stereo speakers are, of course, better with more bass but the Pixel was very clear and loud.
    ++Camera is noticeably faster than 6P especially with HDR+ on.
    ++Battery life: Down to 67% with about 1hr 45min of SOT. So you’re looking at over 5-6hrs of SOT by end of day (mostly wifi usage)

    1. Brushrop03 Avatar
      Brushrop03

      Also the the chin really isn’t noticeable. I have black version
      Overall the phone does feel very ‘premium’ in the hand.

  43. coh303 Avatar
    coh303

    Black Pixel, this thing is so dang fast. I haven’t experienced even the slightest sign of a hiccup so far. I came from a Galaxy S7 which seemed to have some slowness issues at times (and used an iPhone 6s for a couple weeks in the interim). The camera is at least as good as the GS7/iPhone, fingerprint reader is on par with the iPhone’s (and light-years better than Samsung’s), screen looks great, build quality feels solid. Literally the only thing this phone dropped the ball on is waterproofing. I do a lot of hiking, and knowing that rain or a drop in a puddle won’t kill my phone is very reassuring. Google did a great job on their first Pixel and I look forward to how they will move that forward in the years to come.

    1. Douglass Price Avatar
      Douglass Price

      There is a video of a kid submerging his Pixel XL in about 4 inches of water for 30 minutes, worked perfectly afterwards. You can catch the video on YouTube.

      1. distortedloop Avatar
        distortedloop

        He put it in less than two inches of water… Not much water pressure there, but it was a good revelation. I wonder how well it would do after a drop into the pool.
        Also, he didn’t reveal if the cloth speaker cover up top was any the worse for wear after immersion.

    2. Sinn Avatar
      Sinn

      Unless you hang by the pool a lot, I think the water proofing is not that big a deal. I think it will be fine. Have you had a water damage issue before with one of your phones? Just curious.

      One of these YouTube testing videos showed Pixel in water for half an hour before it dies. Don’t take my word for it, but I think it will survive a dunk or a quick wash under the sink. I have a 3 year old Moto phone, which has a worst water proof rating than the Pixel, and I wash it under the sink every couple of days, no problem so far. 🙂 Also I live in the dry California.

      The other thing, I have a feeling that since this is Pixel’s first year the customer service will be good and forgiving, and if you say your phone just stopped working and don’t mention it was dropped in your toilet, they are just gonna send you a new phone, and won’t give you a hard time, when they inspect it later on. 🙂

  44. C Shwizzel Avatar
    C Shwizzel

    Ordered the regular Pixel. One question for all of you…is there ANY way to add unread counts to the Pixel launcher? I can’t believe Google still hasn’t added this. I have to have this…would like to stick with the Pixel launcher but may have to switch to Nova if I can’t get unread counts.

    Thanks.

    1. Brushrop03 Avatar
      Brushrop03

      nopee not that i can see

  45. Someguyperson Avatar
    Someguyperson

    I got an unlocked 32GB Black Pixel XL and my thoughts so far are:
    1. The “black” is really more of a grey. The metal on the back is a dark grey/bronze, much like the 6P, except the plastic parts are dark grey, not black.
    2. I like the glass square on the back, as it creates more friction so the phone doesn’t slide out of your hand like the iPhone or the 6P do
    3. The size is very much in between the 6P and the 5X. I really like that size and the thickness ins’t bad at all. The curvature on the back edges is really nice and fits well in the hand (better than the 5X or the 6P)
    4. The chin looks enormous, but it actually isn’t that much bigger than other phones. It’s still kinda inexcusable why it doesn’t have stereo speakers though.
    5. It is extremely responsive and very much unlike the 6P and 5X, it basically doesn’t heat up at all. It doesn’t feel any warmer at all after running Geekbench a couple times.
    6. It does in fact take pictures in RAW (DNG) and Lightroom works well on the devices.
    7. I haven’t noticed the random lag that I have on the 6P and the 5X. With those phones, occasionally, I would hit a link or something and it took forever to take any action, like it was awake and still in Doze or something. The Pixel doesn’t do that to the best of my knowledge.
    8. The storage is really really really fast. At least on my phone I got 3300MB/s sequential read speed and 1947MB/s random read. The writing wasn’t nearly as fast, but I read a WHOLE lot more than I write, so I think they made the correct decision there.
    9. I want root, but I haven’t seen anything online.
    10. The fingerprint reader is really good, although I have tried to hit the lock button and then my finger grazes the sensor, which unlocks it. It’s either a testiment to how good and quick it is, or an annoyance.

  46. SpinDriftM59 Avatar
    SpinDriftM59

    Pixel XL 128gb in quite black from Verizon here. I know I know it’s from Verizon however I could not argue with the price point. Haven’t rooted/ROMd since my GNex so I didn’t need the unlocked bootloader. Coming from an OG Moto X, I can’t help but freaking love this phone! Everything about it is smooth. Google did a great job.

  47. Jonathan Figueroa Avatar
    Jonathan Figueroa

    I got the blue Pixel XL and my wife got the White Pixel. Honestly like the feel of the smaller pixel better but I got the XL purely for the VR headset stuff. Overall it’s a great phone, just not perfect. Single speaker could be better, speaker grill on the right is for looks and if you cover the left one you loss all sound. The earpiece design is horrid. They used a cloth like cover (most high end phones have a metal grill protecting it) and it’s a lint magnet like no other. The white grill was pretty for ½ a day and now looks like crud with lint everywhere. Besides that, great phone.

  48. Colin Huber Avatar
    Colin Huber

    XL here.

    Good:
    – Impressed by its premium feel and design on the back. I don’t have a case yet and feel like I’m carrying around a precious baby. I was watching my wife hold the device last night and had a kind of “wow, that thing looks awesome in-hand” moment.
    – Software is wicked fast. Huge upgrade from any Nexus device I’ve had. You can easily push it to do any task, and Snapchat actually operates smoothly on it, which is saying something because Snapchat is a RAM suck.
    – People aren’t kidding about the camera. It outperforms anything else, even iPhone.
    – The lock and homescreen wallpaper animations are pretty neat. It’s the little things.
    – The fingerprint sensor is fast and responsive. I also like the notification shade trick.
    – Notification light!
    – Assistant hasn’t missed the mark for me yet (found a sushi joint with her help last night)

    Meh:
    – Size is large, just like an iPhone Plus (which I have for work)
    – Heats up a little on right side of device round power button (weird)
    – Slippery without case.
    – The fingerprint sensor is on the back, which adds an extra step when picking it up off a desk.
    – Not sure on battery yet, but so far so good.
    – Not water resistant, come on!
    – The front looks like an iPhone, guys.

    1. NexusMan Avatar
      NexusMan

      I don’t find any of your “meh’s” cons, and I suppose neither do you since you didn’t call them cons, which makes me that much more stoked to get mine WHENEVER it finally arrives!

      1. BruthaBeige Avatar
        BruthaBeige

        thats why he didnt call them cons…. they are mehs

        1. NexusMan Avatar
          NexusMan

          That’s why I said that’s why he didn’t call them cons… they are mehs

      2. Colin Huber Avatar
        Colin Huber

        No, totally. That’s what “meh” meant. Not necessary, but having those things would have been a bonus. Great device.

        1. NexusMan Avatar
          NexusMan

          Yes. Thanks for the feedback. Mine is on preorder and not due for weeks, so it’s glad to hear great feedback. That’s why I commented on your post, because I was like if those are the worst things you have to say about it, we’re in good shape!

          1. Colin Huber Avatar
            Colin Huber

            Totally. Enjoy your new device when it comes in!

          2. NexusMan Avatar
            NexusMan

            Thanks!

    2. MicroNix Avatar
      MicroNix

      Nice to hear Google finally has a phone with a camera that can compete (good thing they didn’t go with Moto for the equipment). The head to head pics on the few sites I’ve seen them on give it high marks against the S7 and iPhone + with the exception of low light which is really all any of the top smartphones are still constantly improving on but not yet perfect.

    3. Android Developer Avatar
      Android Developer

      About “active display” , you mean “ambient display” ? If so, I see it on my Nexus 5x. I think you should have it on Pixel too.

      1. Colin Huber Avatar
        Colin Huber

        Hey, you’re right. It displays when you have notifications. Edited.

        1. Android Developer Avatar
          Android Developer

          Also when you raise it.

  49. Shawn John Avatar
    Shawn John

    Black/Grey Pixel XL here, still on my Day #1 charge, battery life is phenomenal, camera is improved, love the feel in my hand. Although my old apps are in my Google Play account from my N5, I didn’t install all of them. Ordered a Spigen Case from Zon should be here tomorrow. First 24 Hours with the phone has been great. Can summon the GA even when the phone is off, another device in the house that can take verbal commands.

  50. Brandon Shaw Avatar
    Brandon Shaw

    Got mine and am loving it. Less than 24 hrs but I honestly think this is the most snappy phone I’ve had. Feels great in hand and am very impressed so far. My only complaint with the software is that I wish that the Pixel Launcher would allow the ability to add folders inside of the app drawer. I know I can achieve this with Nova or a 3rd party app, but why doesnt google do this? Even Samsung’s sense allows this.

    1. JSo Avatar
      JSo

      Google has never put a lot of features into their launcher. It’s always been very basic. Although I don’t understand the point of a folder in the app drawer. That’s like a folder inside of a folder. Folderception.

      1. Brandon Shaw Avatar
        Brandon Shaw

        Im OCD. I like to be able to group my TV apps, Games and Kids apps. Makes it easier to find what I want. It’s like sorting your silverware inside of your kitchen drawer. Makes sense to me.

        1. J Harrell Avatar
          J Harrell

          Especially for those of us who don’t have app icons strewn all over their home screens.

  51. Tyler Avatar
    Tyler

    My dad got a pixel and he’s very happy with it. He came from iPhone 5 to iPhone 6 (had to give back to work) to my moto x 2013 to this. Performance is solid and no issues with setup for him. I noticed the very black is quite metallic looking and the screen doesn’t look black it looks more like a dark grey. He found the finger print scanner on back to be weird tho. Too early to give anything concrete tho.

  52. humidity Avatar
    humidity

    Overall the phone is awesome and speedy! I’m a 1 handed user and got a regular Pixel (not XL). My only gripes is that the side bezels are almost too thin and the top and bottom bezels too thick. It’d be nice if they redistributed the bezels a little bit to make the phone less tall and skinny. The fleshy part below my thumb accidentally clicks things when I reach the opposite side of the screen. Maybe it’s just me.

    I don’t know if I’m just missing the setting or what, but I’m coming from a 5X and when I lift my phone, my ambient display doesn’t show up like my 5X did. On the Pixel, ambient display setting specifically says “when you get notifications”. I like to check the time without having to turn my phone on. There’s nothing in Moves either. Is this feature gone?

    Just some minor annoyances, but this is definitely a great phone!

    1. sc0rch3d Avatar
      sc0rch3d

      how does the loud speaker sound with music and phone calls?

      1. humidity Avatar
        humidity

        Phone calls are good from the earpiece. I rarely use speakerphone so I can’t help you there. Music is very good! Can get a little muddy with high volume and depending on the kind of music you listen to.

      2. BruthaBeige Avatar
        BruthaBeige

        I am impressed with the volume of this mono speaker. Much better than what I had with the 6s plus….

  53. Matt Avatar
    Matt

    Received my Pixel (32gb, black, on Project Fi) yesterday. Already would say it is my favorite phone I have ever owned. Everything just feels solid and works well. The camera is fast and produces well. Battery seems good. I feel like it’s just overall not a flashy phone, but Android’s most polished and cohesive phone ever.

    My only major adjustment is the size. I am coming from a Nexus 6P so the regular Pixel is so much smaller. I have smaller hands so I was excited about a smaller option that still had top notch internals. But man the change in screen real estate will take some getting used to.

    Overall I am very happy with the purchase so far.

    1. olivrstal Avatar
      olivrstal

      I also have a Pixel and come from a 6P. I basically agree with u (especially on the size part), but I have some issues with the camera. I made a lot of comparison shots with both phones and viewed them on a desktop monitor, and the Pixel seem to have a slight green/yellowish tint compared to the 6P and the Pixel’s camera also tends to overexpose. Just look at those photos: https://goo.gl/photos/z6eseneFAT8DQrbu7
      The photos from the 6P look overall superior to me.
      Did u compare the cameras side by side as well?
      I don’t know if that’s just my phone or that’s the way it actually is…

  54. dancedroid Avatar
    dancedroid

    Coming from a LG G4, everything is pretty awesome with my Pixel XL. Camera is good and speedy; performance is blazing fast compared to my G4. Design is OK, but planning to slap on a dbrand skin to mix it up a bit. Overall, I’m really enjoying the experience!

  55. onthecouchagain Avatar
    onthecouchagain

    Folks, check this Pixel water test out!

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ObhMgCT-Rzw

    1. Joe Mihalich Avatar
      Joe Mihalich

      whoa! That’s encouraging.

    2. Duffman Avatar
      Duffman

      Does no one remember it’s IP58 for water and dust resistance?

      1. NexusMan Avatar
        NexusMan

        Apparently not.

      2. LiterofCola Avatar
        LiterofCola

        ip53*

        1. Duffman Avatar
          Duffman

          Close enough. But thank you.

    3. Tyler Spurgeon Avatar
      Tyler Spurgeon

      How about a real submerge test, more than just a measuring cup. I want to see a larger body of water that actually has some pressure behind it. Maybe a pool. I doubt it would actually last a full 30 minutes. Plus he didn’t mention if any of the speakers or ports worked after he submerged it. I would expect it last after a quick plunge since most people would pick it back up right away. But what about someone who dropped it while fishing or got pushed into a pool?

      1. NexusMan Avatar
        NexusMan

        Yes he did mention them. At the end. And he said everything is working fine.

        And I have zero plans to submerge my phone in a pool with “some pressure behind it” for 30 minutes. What would be the point of that? MOST people will not. And it is not a secret that the phone is NOT certified at the highest level of water resistance available, so why would it survive in high pressure, deep submersion scenarios? The point of the video is the loud crys of a vocal minority calling the low number of water resistance certification a “horror” is unwarranted as most people in their every day situations will probably be fine.

        1. Brandon Sobotta Avatar
          Brandon Sobotta

          Yep that water test covered anything I would expect from the phone.

    4. hyperbeatser Avatar
      hyperbeatser

      inbeforepeoplestartdestroyingtheirpixelsbydunkingtheminwater

    5. NexusMan Avatar
      NexusMan

      So much for the trolls. That right there is more water resistance than I have personally ever needed.

  56. Joe Mihalich Avatar
    Joe Mihalich

    Pixel XL 32GB Black. Got it yesterday. Love it. Here the things annoying me so far: 1) The way i hold the phone in my left hand, the finger print reader is lower than where my index finger naturally sits on the back of the phone. So i keep having to feel around to find it. 2) Google assistant is ok. It sucks when you have 2 google accounts you use on the same phone. I want it to do most of the stuff i need it to on my main google account, but i want it to add calendar events to the calendar on the other google account. Can’t do that i guess, as you have to select which account to use for assistant as a whole. Also, it seems that randomly it keeps asking me to re-learn my voice for saying ok google when i go to the assistant, not sure what that’s about. 3) I’m not thrilled with the folder icons when you have multiple shortcuts in one shortcut folder. There’s too much going on when you try to scan the folder icons with it showing up to 4 icons at once as a ‘preview’. Other than those things, which i consider very minor, I love it.

  57. atan420 Avatar
    atan420

    I absolutely LOVE my pixel XL. Really though, three main feathers are missing. The standard these days definitely is to include water proofing, and this device should also have front facing stereo speakers and “double-tap-to-wake.” With those three features, this would be by far the best device I will have ever used.

    As is, it’s already the fastest. My Moto X Pure was showing some serious age and this device feels great. While I do miss the “approach” to the Moto X to wake the screen, I’m sure I’ll get used to the button push/finger print.

    1. Brandon Sobotta Avatar
      Brandon Sobotta

      If you watch the video above you will see one water proof tested. It really is enough for most people.

      1. atan420 Avatar
        atan420

        You’re right I hadn’t seen the video when I posted. The most waterproofing I need is probably walking in the rain, which seems more than ok to do with the pixel

  58. Greg Carter Avatar
    Greg Carter

    Ok, I will admit at first I thought I was just “settling” with the pixel. No phone spec wise compared to my Note 7. We’ll after spending my first 24 hours with the phone I will say having the Pixel XL (Black) 128 GB I’m not missing my Note at all. Especially the curved display. Not accidentally touching the display all the time is great. Yes I would like to have water resistant/proof,but it’s not a deal breaker. Battery life thus far is on par with the Note 7. No bloatware! Being a Verizon customer that’s a first for me. I’m 100% happy with this phone.

    1. atan420 Avatar
      atan420

      Well mine auto installed go90 when I inserted my verizon sim, but that was it and it was uninstallable…

      1. Eddie Jr Avatar
        Eddie Jr

        You have to boot and set up with the sim card out. That’s what I did, no vzw apps installed.

      2. Ryan Monaghan Avatar
        Ryan Monaghan

        I was able to uninstall it

    2. Murph Avatar
      Murph

      What did Verizon do to the back of the phone as far as banding?

    3. michael arazan Avatar
      michael arazan

      Pixel 2.0 will be very interesting as it will be more refined and a bit more powerful. As a nexus fan, I can’t wait to see what they do with the next one, which I’ll probably be getting. Just needs less chin and more screen.

      1. ikeofkc Avatar
        ikeofkc

        Chin is good for one handed use. I hate the reach for the back button with my thumb. Awkward at best painful at worst. Also helps in landscape. As a place to rest thumbs not touching screen for games and such.

  59. ctk4949 Avatar
    ctk4949

    So sad, ill be waiting about 5 weeks for my Pixel XL 128GB!! :'(

    1. Gregg Avatar
      Gregg

      Yup, I am in the same boat. Estimated Ship date of Nov 23. I am hoping those get bumped up in a big way.

  60. Suicide_Note Avatar
    Suicide_Note

    Ordered Pixel XL from Google on announcement day, received it yesterday morning, and I’m loving it. The camera in particular is fantastic, and much improved over what the 6P could do. I wish it had front facing speakers like the 6P, but I’m already past that and can live with it.

    1. Tyler Spurgeon Avatar
      Tyler Spurgeon

      Did you actually get a tracking number before you got it? Even though I ordered it on announcement day and chose expedited shipping, mine is still processing. I guess I’ll just be waiting until next week.

      1. Suicide_Note Avatar
        Suicide_Note

        I did. I received the email on Wednesday afternoon, and saw that my package had been picked up by FedEx shortly beforehand.

        1. Tyler Spurgeon Avatar
          Tyler Spurgeon

          🙁

          1. Suicide_Note Avatar
            Suicide_Note

            I feel for you. Hopefully Google gets your phone out today so you can have it by Monday. 🙂

  61. Vermin_Cain(T 'challa's heir)® Avatar
    Vermin_Cain(T ‘challa’s heir)®

    Got my XL, this phone is G.O.A.T.

    1. NeilGeorge Avatar
      NeilGeorge

      G.O.A.T ???

    2. trevorsalienarms Avatar
      trevorsalienarms

      Oh brother.

  62. ChaseM Avatar
    ChaseM

    Got my Verizon Black Pixel XL (128gb) late yesterday evening. So far, I am incredibly pleased. I spent the past year & half with an iPhone 6 and couldn’t wait to come back to Android. This seems to be the perfect device to come home to. I was nervous about the size difference, but I’m getting used to it, and the screen is beautiful. Battery life has been great so far, but haven’t had a full days use, so time will tell. Camera is faster than my iPhone, and pics look great. Stock (or close to it) android is a wonderful thing. No jank what so ever.

    Complaints? Not crazy about the round icons. Will see how i feel after the weekend, but may switch over to Nova. Like others are saying, finger print scanner on the back is great, but kind of a pain with phone sitting on desk.

    Other than that, i am thrilled. 🙂

  63. Good_Ole_Pinocchio Avatar
    Good_Ole_Pinocchio

    WOMP mine is getting delivered on Monday…Should have Splurged for the Expedited shipping. No big deal though. Black Regular Pixel 128

  64. Kelly Manning Avatar
    Kelly Manning

    Silver XL 32 GB here. Coming from 6p and absolutely love it so far. Everything just works. So fluid and feels like I am using a polished product. I have zero regrets purchasing and feel like it is worth the price tag. Haven’t played with the assistant much but will probably use as much as Google now. IE a few searches here and there.
    Size is nice compared to the 6p. I also had the 5x and 6 and seems to be perfect size for screen size and my hand comfort. Most of all it makes me excited for the next generation pixel, if they improve this then we all have something to look forward too.

  65. KevinDC Avatar
    KevinDC

    I picked up a Pixel from Verizon yesterday. Impressions so far…

    Performance is top notch. The interface flies, apps open and load instantly, multitasks like a beast. Then again, with a Snapdragon 821 pushing a 1080p screen, that’s what you should expect.

    Screen is very good. Not the absolute best in the industry, but one of the best.

    I like the Pixel Launcher but I hate the round icons. Awesome Icons allows me to fix that (on my home screen, at least).

    Assistant seems well put together, but I haven’t really put it through its paces yet.

    Camera seems very good, but same as above.

    Battery life is still too soon to say. But the unlocked S7 I had been using for the past several months has started sucking horribly in the battery life department in the past several weeks, even after a factory reset, so the battery life on the Pixel *seems* great. But that may be me being tricked by perspective.

  66. Mel Torme Avatar
    Mel Torme

    Anyone unlock the bootloader yet?

  67. BuckNut23 Avatar
    BuckNut23

    Got my Blue Pixel XL yesterday afternoon. Coming from a 2014 Moto X…. This thing is amazing in comparison. Going to take some time to get used to the size, but I love it. I find it really cool that the blue changes shades depending on the lighting.

  68. Jared Muskovitz Avatar
    Jared Muskovitz

    Early impressions? Glad I preordered.

    I got a 128 GB Pixel XL through Verizon. Phone feels great in hand, everything is blazing fast. Coming from an S6 Edge, it’s night and day. Absolutely no jank in any apps I use daily, the camera is right on par with the best ones available. Google Assistant is a better version of Google Now, which is great because I use it all the time. Big chin on the bottom doesn’t bother me as much as I thought it would; works as a great pinky shelf which is often how I hold phones when using them one handed. Fingerprint sensor is fantastic, especially compared to the S6 Edge which would fail 50% of the time.

    So far, I love it. My Moto X Pure broke and I was forced to go back to my S6 Edge for 6 months. I missed having a large phone. The screen is fantastic. I’ve got it at around 40% brightness and it’s vibrant and clear. I’m also a huge fan of Pixel Launcher as well.

  69. Good_Ole_Pinocchio Avatar
    Good_Ole_Pinocchio

    Kellen you have to tell us if you’re switching to the Regular Pixel. Is it replacing your S7? Or are you staying on the wrong side of this war?….. 🙂

    1. Shawn Spring Avatar
      Shawn Spring

      And when can we expect the DL review to be had as well?

      1. Bourne, Jason C. Avatar
        Bourne, Jason C.

        Probably will be awhile on the review, they like to really put a device through the paces before they release the review (in order to get an accurate/in-depth review instead of just being “one of the first to put one out there”).

  70. Ben Nolen Avatar
    Ben Nolen

    I love it. Coming from a 2014 Moto X. It’s become quite slow.
    The Pixel is lightening fast. Very snappy. The camera is ridiculously fast and the pictures are great.
    I am very happy there is finally a 5″ phone with flagship specs. I hate having to choose a slow/underpowered phone if I want a 5″ device or to have to use a phablet if I want something powerful.
    I have no complaints about the design. It’s a rectangle with a touchscreen. It has the OS on it that I want, and that’s what I care about.

    1. ZWExton Avatar
      ZWExton

      “Lightening” is only as fast as you can turn the dimmer switch or open the blinds.

      1. gmason0702 Avatar
        gmason0702

        To be fair you can do both of those things very fast

  71. Justin Martin Avatar
    Justin Martin

    Got my Pixel in black last night. I love it so far. the only thing I don’t like are the ugly icons, and the awful ring tones. Camera rocks, no lag what-so-ever.

    1. Tr3ple Avatar
      Tr3ple

      Launcher?

      1. Justin Martin Avatar
        Justin Martin

        Stock Pixel Launcher

      2. Justin Martin Avatar
        Justin Martin

        Stock Pixel Launcher

        1. Tr3ple Avatar
          Tr3ple

          Slap a different launcher on it then bro lol, power of Android

    2. wickets Avatar
      wickets

      Agree, and don’t understand why google apps like keep aren’t round ?….also,coming from the 6p I’m used to swiping from the near bottom of the phone….now I keep getting the app drawer instead by mistake…pita

  72. Shawn Spring Avatar
    Shawn Spring

    Pre-ordered from Google on launch day, but I live in CA so I did get my Very Silver 32GB Pixel XL yesterday. Its very nice, and I already like the form factor better than my 6P. Have it in a Case Logic case because it is a bit slippery, but as most have said, it seems very fluid and snappy. I’m looking forward to having it be my daily driver, but I’m considering sending it back and getting a 128GB version for future-proofing. The GA is nice, but hasn’t done anything for me (yet) that a simple voice Google Search does. This is only after 24 hours mind you…screen is VERY nice though. Out of the box (with adaptive on) I thought the base line was 100% because it was so bright, and found out it was only at 50% when I went to change it. Yowza.

  73. CabbageHeadCat. Avatar
    CabbageHeadCat.

    Mine won’t be here till Monday of Tuesday. Should have done expedited shipping. Oh well, next time. Bit the Really Blue is worth the wait. Anyone here get the Blue yet?

    1. Good_Ole_Pinocchio Avatar
      Good_Ole_Pinocchio

      Same boat. Except I got the black. If the Blue had a 128… I would have been all over it.

      1. El_Big_CHRIS Avatar
        El_Big_CHRIS

        I don’t understand why they didnt make a 128 blue

        1. Good_Ole_Pinocchio Avatar
          Good_Ole_Pinocchio

          Especially since it was limited.

  74. ReXeR Avatar
    ReXeR

    I’m switching from the 6P to the normal pixel. Wife already got her pixel from Verizon yesterday, really nice phone and makes me glad I went with the normal pixel. Was getting tired of handling the 6P’s massiveness.

    1. Justin Martin Avatar
      Justin Martin

      I’m switching from the N6 to the regular pixel. looks like a few are doing this. I have to say I like it the smaller screen size. I was worried about it. It is taking some getting used to, but I really think I’m going to like the smaller Pixel. The N6 was SO big.

  75. George Fayad Avatar
    George Fayad

    Blue Pixel XL here. So far, extremely impressed. The polish throughout the OS is very obvious, even comparing it to my Note 7. Where the Note would have occasional stutter, there has been none of that on the Pixel. Battery life is on the better side of normal. After 16 hours of use with 3.5h screen on time I plugged in last night at 24%. Camera is excellent, display with adaptive brightness is great, turn that off and it gets pretty damn bright. Finger print sensor is blazing fast and the added gesture for notification pull down is a god send with a device as large as the XL. My one complaint is that because the imprint sensor is on the back, waking the device while on my desk still requires a squeeze of the power button. If they implement a knockOn or something similar through a software update, I think it might actually be the 100% perfect phone for me.

    1. Bill B Avatar
      Bill B

      “still requires the squeeze of a power button”. That is a big reason I’ve loved my Moto phones and really would hate giving up it, but the Pixel camera has me seriously reconsidering my Moto affinity.

      1. Chris Avatar
        Chris

        Try AcDisplay. Not as good, but all you have to do is cover and uncover the proximity sensor two or three times. It’s a decent solution for people without a Moto device. I’m currently using it on my 2015 Moto X Pure because I like the UI way more.

      2. Tovoris Skinner Avatar
        Tovoris Skinner

        Really love this phone but tht moto display I am really missing tht! Bitter sweat

        1. Kayak83 Avatar
          Kayak83

          I upgraded from the Turbo and miss the active display also. Hopefully tap to wake happens soon.

          I also find the pixel a bit more slippery to hold.

          Overall an awesome phone so far.

        2. Marco Simone Avatar
          Marco Simone

          Google to bring double tap back to the Pixel. Also go to Google Feedback and request the double tap feature. So they can hurry and Bring it out asap.

      3. Erik O Avatar
        Erik O

        Same… I hope they add the double-tap to wake feature. But I’ll just deal with having to pick up the phone, if I don’t have to deal with my Moto X PE’s random freak outs (e.g. contacts storage becoming corrupted kind of often).

      4. BeejRich Avatar
        BeejRich

        I’m on my 2nd Moto X Pure because of the charge port crapping out on me. My 2nd one is crapping out as well. As much as I absolutely love this device, if Moto screws up my replacement (by not being able to duplicate my Moto Maker design) I’m jumping ship.

    2. Paul Hansen Avatar
      Paul Hansen

      They’re supposed to be adding double tap to wake in an update in the future

      1. calculatorwatch Avatar
        calculatorwatch

        I hope so! Just came from a G3 and I keep double tapping the screen expecting something to happen 😛

        1. gmason0702 Avatar
          gmason0702

          Fellow g3 struggler haha between the screen and the side buttons I’m a mess.

        2. James Avatar
          James

          Did you guys end up going with the Pixel or Pixel XL? I’m struggling deciding between the two.

          1. calculatorwatch Avatar
            calculatorwatch

            Pixel here. I love the size of it and the screen is plenty big for my needs. The battery life isn’t troublesome at all but I’m sure it’s still not as good as the XL.

      2. michael arazan Avatar
        michael arazan

        Usually a double tap kills things /s

        1. Paul Hansen Avatar
          Paul Hansen

          I see what you did there….

      3. rebretz000 Avatar
        rebretz000

        I hope so also. No idea why they removed lift to wake. The Pixel version of Ambient Display is lacking.

    3. LionStone Avatar
      LionStone

      Even with my HTC10 fp sensor on the front, I use Smart Lock, so when I’m connected to say my Bluetooth speaker, just a swipe up on the screen wakes it. I wonder if the Pixel has that gesture?

    4. Sal From Impractical Joker's Avatar
      Sal From Impractical Joker’s

      I just got mine in black, I enjoy the screen size, I’m also glad I upgraded the storage on this thing, it’s very fast and it gets the job done, this Moto X Pure is iconic bruh

    5. JBz007 Avatar
      JBz007

      I keep pressing the bottom chin of mine to wake it out of habit coming from the Note 7. I really like the pixel but with double tap to wake I would love it. Crazy how the small things make such a huge difference.

    6. Tyler Avatar
      Tyler

      Two words: Smart Places

      1. Tyler Avatar
        Tyler

        Sorry, never mind.

    7. kellie Avatar
      kellie

      Yes completely agree with this.
      Even my daughters Nokia lumina 640 is much easiet. Double tap the screen and on it pings.

  76. Ihavenewnike Avatar
    Ihavenewnike

    A very boring device but that isn’t necessarily bad. Really snappy, great all around camera although I wish it had a pro mode, Like but not loving assistant yet, design is a yawn but not terrible, like it more than my 7 plus.

    1. Ralph Macchio Avatar
      Ralph Macchio

      You must be really fun at parties

      1. Thanassi Karageorgiou Avatar
        Thanassi Karageorgiou

        What’s wing will his assessment?

        1. ddevito Avatar
          ddevito

          “…if it’s not 100% positive and glowing, thou shall be downvoted and ridiculed”

          -excerpted from the Pixel Owners handbook

          1. Thanassi Karageorgiou Avatar
            Thanassi Karageorgiou

            Sounds like #NexusMasterRaceThings

          2. ddevito Avatar
            ddevito

            Pixel Owners = the new iPhoneMasterRace

          3. Tyler Durden Avatar
            Tyler Durden

            There is no iPhone Master Race which is the funny part. It’s all fandroids who go on every article and come up with BS. It’s pretty funny when they get mad.

          4. Jaymus Lonestar Avatar
            Jaymus Lonestar

            You must not visit Cnet comment sections much then. They do exist.

          5. Tyler Burden Avatar
            Tyler Burden

            It’s kind of like me. I’m and iPhone fanboy but I read every Android article and only post constructive comments. I’m a pot calling the kettle black. Anyway his name was Robert Paulson, his name was Robert Paulson….

          6. JBz007 Avatar
            JBz007

            Lol Tyler Durden has his own troll account, that’s pretty funny!

          7. Brandon Sobotta Avatar
            Brandon Sobotta

            You have not met my co workers.

        2. RDPaPa-G Avatar
          RDPaPa-G

          His mouth wasn’t fully gargling Google’s scrotum, so that offended Ralph. How can you not love Google? Everything Google is awesome. Always. Haven’t had the Kool AIde? OH, well try some.

      2. rodney11ride Avatar
        rodney11ride

        lol

    2. Good_Ole_Pinocchio Avatar
      Good_Ole_Pinocchio

      lol then what do you think of your 7Plus if you like the Pixel better?

      1. Ihavenewnike Avatar
        Ihavenewnike

        The iPhone is what it has been for the last few years. A device that works as a “basic smartphone” much like the pixel I suppose. It is my business line so I don’t have to use it unless I want to. Having been spoiled by great Android phones recently I wish it had at least an OLED screen. I like black backgrounds and with the LCD looking washed out it makes me want to pick up my pixel instead.

    3. Shawn Spring Avatar
      Shawn Spring

      This is in a way the way I feel too – its extraordinarily ordinary. But that’s the point…all the crap iFans say about their devices “just working” – that’s now how the Pixel is too (for me at least) I don’t have to deal with weird camera lag, OS stutters/jank, and everything with 7.1 is much more fluid. App shortcuts are super useful (also for me at least) and I’m coming from a 6P that has 7.0 already. If I was buying an Android device for the first time, I’d wonder what all the complaints from back in the day were about.

      1. ddevito Avatar
        ddevito

        “I don’t have to deal with weird camera lag, OS stutters/jank”

        All Android phones work like that out of the gate. Unless this has its own specific version of Android, chances are the same will happen with this phone too. It’s just the way it is, all phones do this. When the Pixel 2 is released this will happen to yours.

        1. Shawn Spring Avatar
          Shawn Spring

          I’m fairly certain it has more to do with the S820 versus S821 ISP, and the way the new camera stack processes HDR+ more than something related to planned obsolescence.

          1. ddevito Avatar
            ddevito

            If you think the 821 will prevent “Android rot” vs the 820, then maybe you don’t know how the Android cycle works.

          2. Shawn Spring Avatar
            Shawn Spring

            I clearly said nothing about the S821 being future proof with respect to this “Android rot” you refer too, only that the weird camera issues I (and many others, according to the internets) are resolved with the software camera algorithms and the improved IMX378/S821 ISP.

            For your reference, I’ve linked to this related camera article: http://www.theverge.com/2016/10/18/13315168/google-pixel-camera-software-marc-levoy

          3. Killsmetosay Avatar
            Killsmetosay

            I have the Nexus 6 and it seems pretty capable still. What rot are you talking about I’m very curious?

        2. snoty Avatar
          snoty

          I’m guessing you didn’t own a Nexus 6… though I haven’t had any camera lag since Nougat. FedEx says my Pixel XL, 32GB Quite Black will arrive on Wednesday.

          1. ddevito Avatar
            ddevito

            Ha, I did own one begrudgingly – yes that one stumbled out of the gate

        3. bassman418 Avatar
          bassman418

          Other than the possibility of igniting, I havent had any camera lag or strange hang ups on my Note 7. I run Nova launcher and it’s been pretty smooth for the most part, better than my old S7 Edge was.

        4. DainLaguna Avatar
          DainLaguna

          every android phone I’ve had has had that out of the gate. The pixel lacking it probably has something to do with the fact that google was able to fine tune the very specific android interface this device has to the hardware it has. Its been covered pretty in depth.

          1. ddevito Avatar
            ddevito

            yeah, umm – no. Most phones run great out of the box. Come back to me in january

          2. KleenDroid Avatar
            KleenDroid

            I still think Droid Life needs to do an article every week teaching everyone how to keep their phone snappy.

            And show how to easily fix phones that are starting to lag.

            Also in browsers and even apps ads are a big issue. When you block these ads it is a huge improvement. And no you don’t need root.

            I notice that Chrome on Samsung phones is janky due to ads. Without blocking ads it’s very upsetting. Even this site has crazy ads.

            Adguard on XDA is very useful. No root, and has a paid version that blocks ads in apps also.

        5. JohnW Avatar
          JohnW

          But Danny, you’re a Pixel hater. We don’t believe a word that comes out of your midget mouth.

          Loved you in Batman Returns.

        6. sonicyoof Avatar
          sonicyoof

          I’d assume this would have more to do with the storage used.

      2. MicroNix Avatar
        MicroNix

        Every Nexus owner said that too until DL posted an article about the 5 getting an update to fix the jank. Then suddenly out of the wood work, 6p owners were asking if they were getting the update too. We heard about Nexus phones slowing down so bad that they had to reboot them EVERY DAY! But in every Samsung article all you hear about is how perfect the performance of the Nexus phones is. Funny how that all works.

        1. ikeofkc Avatar
          ikeofkc

          Not sure what you’re talking about. 6P owners never needed a jank fix. Always snappy since day one. With 7.1 the camera loads almost instantly now so if anything it has become even snappier.

          1. MicroNix Avatar
            MicroNix

            Read the comments about the 6P.

            http://www.droid-life.com/2016/03/08/nexus-5x-is-finally-getting-its-jank-fixing-update/#disqus_thread

          2. ikeofkc Avatar
            ikeofkc

            Yeah I read a couple people mention some lag but more people refuting it. Also I have had the phone some day one. Never had lag for me. Am taking now with an employee of mine and my boss both say no lag ever for them since buying.

  77. Chris Butera Avatar
    Chris Butera

    Got my 128GB Quite Black Pixel on Wednesday. Loving it so far. Everything I could’ve hoped for. Feels great in hand, no lag at all, and extremely solid battery life approaching 30 hours of normal usage for me (no gaming, videos).

  78. R. Nobody Avatar
    R. Nobody

    The lack of App support for new Android versions is getting frustrating. The Pixel is buttery smooth and feels too slippery without a case, but feels like a premium phone should.

    1. George Fayad Avatar
      George Fayad

      Lack of app support? What obscure apps are you using?

      1. R. Nobody Avatar
        R. Nobody

        Securesafe Password, Optimum Online, Night Owl HD. They all work perfectly on my kids IOS devices.

        1. Good_Ole_Pinocchio Avatar
          Good_Ole_Pinocchio

          I think it’s more a matter of them updating for the latest version of Android. I noticed this morning after updating to the 7.1 beta on my 6p that IHeart Radio doesn’t work. Give it a couple weeks for them to update those apps.

    2. Suicide_Note Avatar
      Suicide_Note

      It’s the dev’s responsibility to update their app to be compatible with the new version of Android. A big reason why Google starting doing developer previews was so that devs could get their apps ready for when the final version of the OS is released.

    3. Justin Martin Avatar
      Justin Martin

      what file manager are you using with 7.1?

  79. Darius Burgess Avatar
    Darius Burgess

    Got mine. Love it so far. Super fluid.

  80. buckeyelife Avatar
    buckeyelife

    Driving to best buy right now to pick up my XL. Deep down I want the normal Pixel.

  81. Meltdown07 Avatar
    Meltdown07

    Got a pixel in silver (coming from the note7) and I love it so far. Too early to evaluate battery life, but the screen quality is excellent. Note that you have to enable wi-fi calling (verizon) in the settings of the phone… its turned off by default.

  82. Pilz Avatar
    Pilz

    Love my XL so far. The smaller screen (vs my 6P) does take some getting used to, but overall it’s a great phone

  83. Tyler Spurgeon Avatar
    Tyler Spurgeon

    Still waiting… https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/713a8754fd59d1b1c8f014a38f984b80b5f996c92f44e6eac769f3e08fbcb9f3.png

    1. CabbageHeadCat. Avatar
      CabbageHeadCat.

      Same here.

      1. Tyler Spurgeon Avatar
        Tyler Spurgeon

        I ordered it on the day it was announced. What I’m irritated with is the fact that Google had delivered devices to Verizon way before launch day, and Verizon even delivered some of these devices to customers before launch day. Why couldn’t Google do the same for their customers? The fact that I spent extra on expedited shipping feels like a complete waste now.

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