Google's newest smartphones, the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL, officially arrive on Oct. 19 (though pre-orders are already under way). And the devices are winning rave reviews for the combination of solid hardware upgrades and the use of AI and machine learning to do everything from pre-screen incoming calls to enhance photos.
Of course, the over-sized notch in the 3 XL and the matte-finished glass back, which some find rather slippery, have gotten less favorable attention.
Google
This year's Pixels come in three colors: black, white and "not pink."
Still, according to Computerworld reviewer Dan Rosenbaum, the latest smartphones from Google represent a solid upgrade from last year's devices and definitely will be appealing to first-year Pixel owners.
Rosenbaum joined Computerworld Executive Editor Ken Mingis and IDGE video producer Chris Hebert – an Android fan in his own right – to discuss the new Pixels, with an eye on whether Hebert should upgrade from last year's Pixel 2. (It depends, explains Rosenbaum, on how much photography matters to you; for most businesses using Pixel 2 devices, an upgrade this year makes less sense.)
This episode covers the gamut of Pixel 3 specifics and pricing, touches on the now-familiar Android-vs.-iOS debate, and looks at whether Google's simplified version of Android – the version installed on the Pixels – is a better option for most users.
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