Google Pixel and Home

First impressions of the first Google-only branded phones, Pixel and Pixel XL.

At first look, there's nothing new to this phone unless you're looking at the "Really Blue" version (which the white front makes look weird).  Yes, it has a headphone jack. No, it doesn't have a camera bump. Both of the mentioned qualities are unlike its main competitor, iPhone 7.

While Google brought these points up, I feel like I must bring up some advantages that the iPhone 7 has. The iPhone 7 Plus has an additional camera which explains its larger camera bump. The Pixel overcomes the camera bump by having an angled back (the top is thicker than the bottom).

There was no mention of any water/dust resistant on the Pixels, but the iPhone 7 is IP67 (i.e. dust proof and can also withstand being submerged in 1m (about 3.3 feet) of static water for up to 30 mins). Water resistance can often be a lifesaver.

The Pixels and iPhones look very similar (and there are very similarly priced). The bezels are very similar, but I have a sight issue with the Pixels' as the bottom is empty space; it just seems to be a waste of space. It would have been nice to have something there (e.g. buttons).

Google said the camera on the Pixel is superior to the camera on the iPhone 7, but we'll just have to wait for more reviews.

So does it match up with the iPhone 7? Last month, I said it was a perfect time to switch to the iPhone. Google really made a huge step in upgrading their camera, which was one of the weaker aspects in the Nexus line. There are offering free Google Photos storage for photos and videos taken with the Pixel, but only the videos would be an additional benefit as iPhone photos would be considered free storage since it is under 16MP. Google is offering Google Assistant and 24/7 support with the Pixel, but I'm not sure convinced that I would use either very much in the near future.

So to answer how the Pixel compares to the iPhone 7: I think the phones are on the same level. They have various pros/cons (mentioned previously). I would give the iPhone 7 the slight edge because it is water resistant and Google supports the iOS platform so well.

Google also announced a router system that allows you to basically expand your WiFi signal to more places with more Google WiFi devices. The router software will also allow you to control the connection of devices on the network (assuming through an app). For example, you'll be able to turn off people's WiFi connection during certain times (e.g. dinner).

Now to Google Home.

Previously, I wrote my thoughts about Google Home and not much has changed since then. We'll have to see how it tests in real world conditions. Google Home definitely looks promising, particularly its support for multiple devices throughout the house.