2020 is such a terrible year that I don’t even feel bad about looking ahead to 2021. Thanks to a supposed leaked document from inside the ol’ Googleplex, we get to do just that and start thinking about the Pixel 5a, Pixel 6, and a foldable Pixel.
The document I’m referring to has been seen by the crew at 9to5Google and they claim it gives up a lot of the future goods. We have codenames to watch out for, launch time frames to pencil in, and yes, a mention of a foldable device from Google.
Our understanding of the situation looks something like the following. After the Pixel 4a (5G) and Pixel 5 launch in October, which this document suggests, matching the screw-up by Google France, it moves on to 2021.
For 2021, the first device to launch could be the Pixel 5a with a codename of “barbette.” This device should arrive in Q2 of 2021 before three more devices debut. Those three devices are “raven” and “oriole,” which could be a Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 XL. We also have a “passport” device that has apparently been clearly referred to as a “foldable.” These final three devices are scheduled for Q4 2021.
Alright, so what’s the takeaway? All of this stuff lines up with the past, and so it makes sense from a scheduling perspective. Flagship Pixel phones launch in Q4 and the “a” line is supposed to launch in Q2.
The interesting bit is obviously the foldable. We know that Google has built-in foldable support to Android and that it would only make sense for them to create their own. I can’t imagine they want to sit back and watch Samsung have all of that fun. If you want to advance an idea, especially as the maker of that idea’s software, you should probably build your own and share your own vision. (Shut it, Pixel Watch.)
As is always the case with leaks like this, understand that everything here can change. We saw the hell that was 2020 and the Pixel 4a launch, so don’t be shocked if this story shifts from now until the end of next year.
// 9to5Google
Pixel 5 is a disgrace. Let’s hope for a decent pixel 6. But better not hope. I think I’ll buy a Samsung.
They dont need a fold-able. What they need is a legitimate flagship phone that is universally praised by most. They can keep all the phones they are making now as mid-range. To bad they cant just take a Huawei P40/P50 Pro and slap a Pixel sign on it.
I hope it takes after the Mate X, design wise. It would differentiate it from everything else in the US market & it’s the best looking foldable form factor for me. There’s durability concerns, but those are unavoidable for any foldable.
I hope Google still plans to use their own CPU in the Pixel 6. That could make for an interesting new twist in the Pixel line.
That’s if they haven’t cancelled the Pixel line by then.
I’m going to keep my faith that it will still exist next year.
That Pixel 5a in Q2 of next year sounds interesting. That might be what I upgrade to.
I think a foldable by Google would be a disaster.
Until Google can figure out how to actually properly compete in mobile phones (outside of the budget arena) I don’t even care any more. My P4XL can be my permanent backup/vacation phone for a few years until Google figures their shlt out, if they ever do.
yes, I also saw a Google classified document that details Pixel Fold 2 & Pixel 7 launching in October 2022
If there is one thing that’s certain besides death and taxes, it’s that Google leaks like a sieve. The new devices haven’t even been released, and already the prototypes are being discussed cause the powers that be can’t keep their internal docs under wraps.
Not that I mind personally. It’s definitely news worth hearing that a foldable Pixel is coming to challenge the Galaxy Fold.
That being said, Wear OS… Dead or no?
I’ve been saying Wear OS is dead for a few years.
At this rate, we’ll hear about the pixel 8 or the cancelation of the pixel by the end of the year ????
Give me a damn watch. Seriously. It’s time.
I just don’t see that ever happening.
I disagree. They purchased fitbit. At the very lease something will come out under that brand.
This is true. I just don’t see it happening. Wear OS is just pretty bad
That’s if the deal gets regulatory approval, which is far from a sure thing.
Pixel Watch, code named OriOle, will be released in late 2021 with the Pixel 6. It will have a 1.61″ circular screen, as referenced by the code name. Those are the only tidbits I could get out of Sarge, but he did hint at a glucose monitor. I couldn’t get specifics, he just mentioned some old X-Labs tech being put into the watch.
I am surprised he hasn’t said anything to you about it. You two get into a fight or something?
LOL. Nah, when Motorola turned into the bastard company that it is now, we all lost interest.
Bionic, is that you?
I see what you did there.