Develop Bugs

Question to current pixel xl owners? Looking for advice (replacing note 7)?

Dear XDA,
So for deciding on which phone I want to get to replace my note 7, i decided to do a bit of research, here is some background:
So my device history is as followed: Acer Liquid --> Galaxy Nexus --> Galaxy Note 3 --> Galaxy Note 7.
My usage is as followed:
-Used the phone for calling,texting,social media, etc.
-Media consumption using a 1440p screen for youtube, netflix, and some native HDR contant, music using lossless files with poweramp and music streaming with spotify
-Heavy 3D games, emulators, and pokemon Go, etc.
-Using hpc applications, loading compute payloads using otg, gnuroot to run workstation applications (programming, scripts, sensor data, machine vision, etc.); Use for on the go work but mostly a side/independant work
-Using drafting application on native andriod and linux (part of the previous point)
-Used fingerprint and iris scanner, SD card encryption, phone encryption during start up, secure folder, etc.
-Used all samsung features
-Listen to music using a 3.5mm jack at home and bt headphones on the go/gym
-Taking pictures, videos, using slow mo (editing them to)
-etc.
So, to summarize : I love media consumption and media capture with the phone, I use every feature my Note 7 has and I would love to use newer features to. Battery life should be well and I love expandable storage. I use my phone for emulators, Pokemon Go, other high graphic (for a phone that is) game, spotify, data storage and transfer (for my work files and such), and I do use some "High Performance" application on the phone such as Autocad, Matlab , gnuroot Debian and other analysis software and even computing by uploading payloads via usb otg (as a hobby and sometimes to complete work on the go). I also love using root access (but if I can get most root features without rooting the phone it be great). With all that, I also use the phone like any other person such as for social media, phone calls (omg I know ), test messaging etc.
For the future: I would use Android wear/samsung gear s3, wireless charging, etc.
So currently on my note 7 I am getting a sot of 5h and 54 min (so ~6hrs on my nerfed battery, this was at 3% left) Link: https://imgur.com/gallery/bfYCO
And my Antutu score is 141851 Link: http://imgur.com/wMPXRAK
So my questions for you Pixel XL owners (and for people that went to pixel xl from the N7): How is the SOT? Can I get 6 hours easily with heavy use? How is standby time? How is its raw performance for my special use case? Hows benchmarks (i did try to run antutu on a retail model at got about 139000)? Also is the usb-c a 3.0 or 2.0? Transfer speed and communication via usb matter for faster otg workloads so thats why I asked, i believe my note 3 was a 3.0 and the note 7 was a 3.0? how is the camera really? How are low light shots compared to N7? Also is Display Port over type-c possible on the pixel xl?

Bumpidy bump bump?
Ps. Does the pixel lack usb host? I use that :/

usb host - yes
usb 3.0 - yes
SOT - should be no problem coming from the note, battery life on the XL at least is fantastic
Camera - I like the pixel camera every bit as much as the one on the note, probably more. Low light is fine once you get the hang of it. Any sort of case does cause issue with refractions from the flash, if you have flash on.

I can't give you hard numbers but without a doubt this is the best SOT I've ever had. Coupled with the fastest charging I've ever seen I don't think there is a better battery life phone at this performance level out there.
Def does better than the Note 7 so if that worked for you, don't hesitate.

Display over c is not yet confirmed but i doubt it. They may lean on chromecast wireless. I dont know how you are power using a samsung device because you have no root! This phone is a must for power users. Not to mention there are hardly any manufactures allowing for an unlockable bootloader, with the google lineup being the last of them at this point not looking at some phones international models.
Not to mention I have yet to see a phone match the camera quality of the lg (g4,g5,v10,v20) lineup, the manual shooting on those phones are GODLIKE. So if you havent maybe give the v20 a look but again its bootloader is going to be locked

juliend said:
usb host - yes
usb 3.0 - yes
SOT - should be no problem coming from the note, battery life on the XL at least is fantastic
Camera - I like the pixel camera every bit as much as the one on the note, probably more. Low light is fine once you get the hang of it. Any sort of case does cause issue with refractions from the flash, if you have flash on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay!! Most sites say the pixel lacks usb host mode (different from otg). Also so the whole halo effect is due to flash?
mrRobinson said:
I can't give you hard numbers but without a doubt this is the best SOT I've ever had. Coupled with the fastest charging I've ever seen I don't think there is a better battery life phone at this performance level out there.
Def does better than the Note 7 so if that worked for you, don't hesitate.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice, I was worried because of lower capacity.
xTristinx said:
Display over c is not yet confirmed but i doubt it. They may lean on chromecast wireless. I dont know how you are power using a samsung device because you have no root! This phone is a must for power users. Not to mention there are hardly any manufactures allowing for an unlockable bootloader, with the google lineup being the last of them at this point not looking at some phones international models.
Not to mention I have yet to see a phone match the camera quality of the lg (g4,g5,v10,v20) lineup, the manual shooting on those phones are GODLIKE. So if you havent maybe give the v20 a look but again its bootloader is going to be locked
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did look at the V20, the non amoled coupled with lense cracking and it falling behind in speed test really disappointed me. Oh and the v20 lacks usb host to, I use usb host for usb devices such as external sensors and for usb amps. Also I usually root after my warranty is done, and most of my apps dont require root, even for gnuroot (despite its name )

I stand corrected, seems the pixel does have usb host mode, please ignore that.

So I am actually considering the pixel over the s7 edge. Guys anything I should keep in mind or expect? My pure android (i.e. Google) experience are from my galaxy nexus and nexus .

EternalSeekerX said:
So I am actually considering the pixel over the s7 edge. Guys anything I should keep in mind or expect? My pure android (i.e. Google) experience are from my galaxy nexus and nexus .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I will say that my first days into Android I loved the HTC skins, and always hated pure vanilla android. Always ran roms that were based off stock skins vs vanilla Android. That started to change when I got a Samsung S4. As Android progressed I found manufacturers custom stuff was more gimmicks than actually useful. Nexus device and now pixel XL I won't do anything except android straight from Google. You will appreciate it. And I'm really digging Google Assistant. Battery life is good, radio is far better than the nexus or the S7(my wife has an s7). If your are looking at the S7 edge than definitely going with the Pixel XL for comparison.

Can't give you numbers. Sorry. My device history is close, but I started with an EVO. I've had two note 7's and a 7Edge in the last 5 weeks. Now the pixel Xl. I love it!!! I rooted, years ago, for battery life primarily, and this phones battery life smokes them all.
Sent from my SM-T800 using Tapatalk

The only thing I couldn't deal with that I thought I could, coming from the Note 7 to Pixel XL was the rear fingerprint reader. I don't keep my phone in my hand or pocket much. It's usually sitting on my desk being used as a music streaming device, so I need to get to the screen many times a day to check notifications, change songs, etc.... I am connected to our corporate email server which forces a security policy that forces lockscreen settings and such that I can't change. Having to enter a 5 digit code to unlock the device many times a day got really old after a week.... or having to pick the darn thing up over and over just to flip it over to use the print scanner and back over to use it.... There's no way I can deal with that for 2 years so I returned it and am currently ordering the S7 Edge. It will hold me over until the Note 8.
Everything else about the Pixel XL was fantastic. I gave it a week, I loved it at first, day after day that dang fingerprint scanner annoyed me.... it got to where I was using one hand to tilt it over at a 45 degree angle and sticking my finger under it to unlock it.... and then lay it back down. Completely ridiculous that this, or a 5 digit unlock code, or picking it up are my only options. With my Note 7 I could simply press the home button with my finger and it read it at the same time. Boom. Unlocked and ready to use without even looking at it.... that one simple functional detail made all the difference for me.
Sent from my SM-N930V using Tapatalk

318sugarhill said:
I will say that my first days into Android I loved the HTC skins, and always hated pure vanilla android. Always ran roms that were based off stock skins vs vanilla Android. That started to change when I got a Samsung S4. As Android progressed I found manufacturers custom stuff was more gimmicks than actually useful. Nexus device and now pixel XL I won't do anything except android straight from Google. You will appreciate it. And I'm really digging Google Assistant. Battery life is good, radio is far better than the nexus or the S7(my wife has an s7). If your are looking at the S7 edge than definitely going with the Pixel XL for comparison.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well between your wife S7 and the pixel, what differences are standing out in terms of software features? I mean touchwiz isnt bad but, enh.
RascalDoc said:
Can't give you numbers. Sorry. My device history is close, but I started with an EVO. I've had two note 7's and a 7Edge in the last 5 weeks. Now the pixel Xl. I love it!!! I rooted, years ago, for battery life primarily, and this phones battery life smokes them all.
Sent from my SM-T800 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well between the N7/S7E and the pixel, what things have improved? Whats your use case? Is it similar to mine? Its a plus to be able to root but I usually root at the end of the product cycle, most of my apps play nice with Android and don't need root while still supplying performance.
neyenlives said:
The only thing I couldn't deal with that I thought I could, coming from the Note 7 to Pixel XL was the rear fingerprint reader. I don't keep my phone in my hand or pocket much. It's usually sitting on my desk being used as a music streaming device, so I need to get to the screen many times a day to check notifications, change songs, etc.... I am connected to our corporate email server which forces a security policy that forces lockscreen settings and such that I can't change. Having to enter a 5 digit code to unlock the device many times a day got really old after a week.... or having to pick the darn thing up over and over just to flip it over to use the print scanner and back over to use it.... There's no way I can deal with that for 2 years so I returned it and am currently ordering the S7 Edge. It will hold me over until the Note 8.
Everything else about the Pixel XL was fantastic. I gave it a week, I loved it at first, day after day that dang fingerprint scanner annoyed me.... it got to where I was using one hand to tilt it over at a 45 degree angle and sticking my finger under it to unlock it.... and then lay it back down. Completely ridiculous that this, or a 5 digit unlock code, or picking it up are my only options. With my Note 7 I could simply press the home button with my finger and it read it at the same time. Boom. Unlocked and ready to use without even looking at it.... that one simple functional detail made all the difference for me.
Sent from my SM-N930V using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Between the Pixel XL and the S7 edge baring the finger print scanner location, hows performance?
Also I have two more questions for anyone:
-Does the pixel work with ps3/ps4/xbox one controllers via otg? (I wanna use it for emulators on the go)?
-Is the SD 821 performing at peak frequency or does the phone thermal throttle hard like samsung phones? (All my samsungs ran warm to hot, i just expect this from the samsung phones I have used, including my galaxy nexus)

EternalSeekerX said:
So currently on my note 7 I am getting a sot of 5h and 54 min (so ~6hrs on my nerfed battery, this was at 3% left) Link: https://imgur.com/gallery/bfYCO
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, but i have a question for you. You said "nerfed battery" on your Note 7. Not quite understanding what you mean by "nerfed battery". Like a downgraded battery? Sorry, noob question i'm sure.

Zeroflucks said:
Sorry, but i have a question for you. You said "nerfed battery" on your Note 7. Not quite understanding what you mean by "nerfed battery". Like a downgraded battery? Sorry, noob question i'm sure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nerfed meaning after samsung pushed the 60% battery capacity.
Sorry for the confusion!

Well between the N7/S7E and the pixel, what things have improved? Whats your use case? Is it similar to mine? Its a plus to be able to root but I usually root at the end of the product cycle, most of my apps play nice with Android and don't need root while still supplying performance. <br />
<br />
Actually I haven't rooted it yet and so far so good. Battery life has improved tremendously and I'm not sure I can speak to my usage compared to yours. That's pretty subjective. The fingerprint scanner is is nice. The battery charges Superfast which is nice. With the Note 3 I carried two spare batteries and with this phone I might look for a wall plug once a day and that's generally very late in the day. Sorry I couldn't give you more specifics but I hope this helps. The camera seems to be much faster also and the photos better quality. The assistant works well. If you decide to keep your Note 7 I've got a couple Chargers and cases that I no longer have use for. LOL
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

EternalSeekerX said:
Nerfed meaning after samsung pushed the 60% battery capacity.
Sorry for the confusion!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My Note 7 still charges to 100%...
Sent from my SM-N930V using Tapatalk
---------- Post added at 08:49 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:46 PM ----------
EternalSeekerX said:
Well between your wife S7 and the pixel, what differences are standing out in terms of software features? I mean touchwiz isnt bad but, enh.
Well between the N7/S7E and the pixel, what things have improved? Whats your use case? Is it similar to mine? Its a plus to be able to root but I usually root at the end of the product cycle, most of my apps play nice with Android and don't need root while still supplying performance.
Between the Pixel XL and the S7 edge....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't have the S7 Edge in hand yet so I can't honestly say. But for me the S7 Edge will be good enough for 11 months... the Pixel is a fantastic device other than the rear fingerprint scanner in my opinion.
Sent from my SM-N930V using Tapatalk

neyenlives said:
My Note 7 still charges to 100%...
Sent from my SM-N930V using Tapatalk
---------- Post added at 08:49 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:46 PM ----------
I don't have the S7 Edge in hand yet so I can't honestly say. But for me the S7 Edge will be good enough for 11 months... the Pixel is a fantastic device other than the rear fingerprint scanner in my opinion.
Sent from my SM-N930V using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is that your original or replaced note 7? Anyway i bought an s7 edge since the Samsung store gave me a 100 dollar off.

Jump from S8 to Google Pixel - worth it?

I've never used a Google Nexus/Pixel before, because there are no samples in my region that I can have a run.
Is it true that the Pixel will remain buttery smooth throughout its entire lifespan (say 3 years) and is better than its competitors like Samsung in preventing rogue apps from mysteriously draining the battery over time?
I've been using Samsung all along and frankly quite tired of doing mods just to keep it fast, smooth, low-battery sucking, just like iPhone.
The only reason I've not jumped over to the Apple camp is because of the drag and drop functionality that Apple lacks.
Will the Pixel be very comparable to the iPhone in all aspects?
What will I lose (other than obvious things like the screen) by jumping from S8 to Pixel?
Lastly, when will Pixel 2 be out? Should I hold my breath for it? More interested in camera improvements.

dylansmith said:
I've never used a Google Nexus/Pixel before, because there are no samples in my region that I can have a run.
Is it true that the Pixel will remain buttery smooth throughout its entire lifespan (say 3 years) and is better than its competitors like Samsung in preventing rogue apps from mysteriously draining the battery over time?
I've been using Samsung all along and frankly quite tired of doing mods just to keep it fast, smooth, low-battery sucking, just like iPhone.
The only reason I've not jumped over to the Apple camp is because of the drag and drop functionality that Apple lacks.
Will the Pixel be very comparable to the iPhone in all aspects?
What will I lose (other than obvious things like the screen) by jumping from S8 to Pixel?
Lastly, when will Pixel 2 be out? Should I hold my breath for it? More interested in camera improvements.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1 - even after its EOL it will remain smooth, since we'll still have some dev working on it.
2 - mods other than visual customization are not needed on the Pixel XL. At least not to save battery.
3 - Hopefully the Pixel XL (although looking a little bit similar to the iPhone) will never be comparable with an iPhone.
4 - I don't own a S8 as I don't like Samsung devices, so i can't answer, sorry...
5 - Pixel XL 2 will most likely be released this autumn. Camera is already very nice in my opinion. If you have some money, go ahead. Otherwise wait six more months. It's up to you...
Cheers...

As someone who mainly used Samsung phones in past, I will not even consider S8 as anything. Why? Because of two reasons. First one is a personal requirement. I simply need a phone with smoothly working and consistent UI, which will lag the least, which will be reliable and not throw plenty FC and stuffs. And second one is a FACT. You wanna use an Android phone for real? Then use an android phone for real. Pixel IS Android. Samsung phones are Android in name. If you compare features of the two then Pixel will feel really dull, lacking in features.
Out of Pixel vs S8, I don't even see any point why in God's name would one choose the S8 over Pixel. Only one thing better is less bezels causing a huge and better display. Otherwise that glossy back panel, that fingerprint sensor positioning, a hardware second voice assistant button, jeez! And I am not even saying anything about their new Grace UI.
Pixel 2 will come out same time like Pixel 1 came out, around October.
After using Pixel for three months I have to say the phone simply rocked in most parts, incredible software experience, though still no iOS, that's why I sold it, incredible camera, that I can't forget from my mind, tremendous call quality, clean loud speaker etc., if someone really wanna buy an Android then there is no better phone, or nothing comes even close at this point.

I heard the software for the camera is lacking though. There are limited camera controls and the shutter speed can't go up to 30 seconds (not even with 3rd party Android apps). Is that true?
in addition, I noticed Samsung's weakness in GPS accuracy (this holds true from S2 days even to S8!). iPhone always gets the GPS position right the very first time and in quick time. Does the Pixel match up in this case?

dylansmith said:
I heard the software for the camera is lacking though. There are limited camera controls and the shutter speed can't go up to 30 seconds (not even with 3rd party Android apps). Is that true?
in addition, I noticed Samsung's weakness in GPS accuracy (this holds true from S2 days even to S8!). iPhone always gets the GPS position right the very first time and in quick time. Does the Pixel match up in this case?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey,
Can't speak for the camera as for advanced sbot I'd use a DSLR. :good:
My GPS works well, no issue...
Your right, my SII gps.conf had to be tweaked to work properly.
Cheers...

dylansmith said:
I heard the software for the camera is lacking though. There are limited camera controls and the shutter speed can't go up to 30 seconds (not even with 3rd party Android apps). Is that true?
in addition, I noticed Samsung's weakness in GPS accuracy (this holds true from S2 days even to S8!). iPhone always gets the GPS position right the very first time and in quick time. Does the Pixel match up in this case?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No manual controls. Only you can increase or decrease exposure that's it. Lowest shutter speed will be 1/4 with HDR+ I think, no less than that. And no, third party camera apps don't do **** here, all are basically meaningless.
But HDR+ as a whole is leagues ahead than other phones. I have never seen any phone capturing this much details in low light. The camera is brilliant in any way you at it. Just there are two problems, sometimes in low light it keeps focusing on the subject, and there is a blown out effect around light sources in a photo, which looks pretty bad when zoomed in.
GPS accuracy of the phone was awesome. Can't speak for iPhone but most accurate Android, fastest too, I have ever used.

I have a question too, since we are on the topic of switching. I'm thinking about switching from the s7 edge to a pixel/xl, and I was wondering are all the bootloaders for the pixel and xl unlock-able or do I have to look for a certain type?

loeffler23 said:
I have a question too, since we are on the topic of switching. I'm thinking about switching from the s7 edge to a pixel/xl, and I was wondering are all the bootloaders for the pixel and xl unlock-able or do I have to look for a certain type?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello,
All models directly bought from Google can be unlocked.
Verizon, EE, maybe others, not sure. You can find more infos by reading this forum, it's here if you search... Those can be unlocked if the Android version is 7.1 with an exploit called dePixel8: http://theroot.ninja/depixel8.html
On newer version, the exploit has been patched. If i was you, I'd rather look for a Google version if you want an unlockable bootloader...
Cheers...

loeffler23 said:
I have a question too, since we are on the topic of switching. I'm thinking about switching from the s7 edge to a pixel/xl, and I was wondering are all the bootloaders for the pixel and xl unlock-able or do I have to look for a certain type?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I went from S7 to Pixel XL and love it, but I'll go ahead and warn you; if you want the unlockable bootloader, don't buy it from Verizon, order it from the Google Store. The Verizon model (includes getting it at Best Buy) has an permanently locked (can't be unlocked) bootloader on current firmware, but the Google Store source Pixel should always be unlockable no matter what firmware it's updated to. Hope that's accurate, I think it is, unless someone comes up with an exploit to allow unlocking the Verizon bootloader.

Although the device works well in some aspects such as the camera and speed, it is the worst I've had in terms of a "phone". The amount of dropped and missed calls is just not acceptable. Do a search on google's pixel support forum and you'll see I'm not the only one. There's also other connectivity problems like bt and wifi that just shouldn't be. Also Google is shoving more and more ads and money makers for them into everything they do. Example: maps now has a Pacman game built in. They're also making it harder and harder on developers to modify their tracking devices. So, after being an Android fanboy for the last 6 yrs, I'll be looking elsewhere when this one dies the normal death (battery already not lasting through the day like when I bought it).

Droid1019 said:
Although the device works well in some aspects such as the camera and speed, it is the worst I've had in terms of a "phone". The amount of dropped and missed calls is just not acceptable. Do a search on google's pixel support forum and you'll see I'm not the only one. There's also other connectivity problems like bt and wifi that just shouldn't be. Also Google is shoving more and more ads and money makers for them into everything they do. Example: maps now has a Pacman game built in. They're also making it harder and harder on developers to modify their tracking devices. So, after being an Android fanboy for the last 6 yrs, I'll be looking elsewhere when this one dies the normal death (battery already not lasting through the day like when I bought it).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello... If you experience one or more of the issues you describe, why not simply RMA your device? :good:
Cheers...

5.1 said:
Hello... If you experience one or more of the issues you describe, why not simply RMA your device? :good:
Cheers...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Because I got it from Verizon while I could still unlock the bootloader. If I get another from them I won't be able to. Also if you read some of the support forums on VZW or Google you'll see getting another phone is not the answer as some have been through 3-5. The problem lies in the way the new technology in the chip interacts with the towers. So it depends more on where where you are and if the towers have been updated which will be a long time coming in the rural areas that I work in.

Droid1019 said:
Because I got it from Verizon while I could still unlock the bootloader. If I get another from them I won't be able to. Also if you read some of the support forums on VZW or Google you'll see getting another phone is not the answer as some have been through 3-5. The problem lies in the way the new technology in the chip interacts with the towers. So it depends more on where where you are and if the towers have been updated which will be a long time coming in the rural areas that I work in.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey,
Ah... I understand you. Yeah the Verizon policy is really annoying for those wanting an unlockable bootloader.
Also, what makes other manufacturers better as they should pack the same technology in their new chips as well, no?
Cheers...

Hell-to-the-nah-naaaah

Without Xposed, I won't even consider an S8.
Actually, I wouldn't even if they got LOS or AOSP ROM's.
Even back when Galaxy phones did get that type of ROM support, they were always buggy A.F.
Wasn't till I got a Motorola X Pure and Google phone till I found out what a "stable" custom ROM was.
I was rooting & ROM'ing Galaxy Skyrocket, S3, S4, Note 3, Note 4... never had such stability as since the Pure and Pixel.
Sucks too, because I want those new slim bezels, 1000 nit screen, extra water resistance and glove mode if they still have it.

dylansmith said:
Is it true that the Pixel will remain buttery smooth throughout its entire lifespan (say 3 years)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, it is not true. Pixel XL uses Snapdragon 821 cpu, which is already obsolete today. The most current and fastest cpu in USA is Snapdragon 835, which is about 30% faster than 821 used in Pixel. In 3 years, this phone will be a complete hog, giving you maybe less that 15 frames per second... If Google keeps updating the OS. If it doesn't, it will stay the same speed. Ironic...
dylansmith said:
Is it true that it is better than its competitors like Samsung in preventing rogue apps from mysteriously draining the battery over time?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, it is not true. Pixel XL is one of the worst battery draining flagship phones on the market today. Its use of Google Assistant constantly in the background is the major source of battery drain, unless you disable it. But when you disable it, you lose a lot of functionality like the weather widget on main screen, or any other functionality associated with it. Even Galaxy S7/8, with always on display technology, drains less battery than Pixel XL. It's a battery hog. On the other hand, it's active usage battery drain is compatible with other flagship phones. But when you turn off the screen, prepare for a beating.
dylansmith said:
I've been using Samsung all along and frankly quite tired of doing mods just to keep it fast, smooth, low-battery sucking, just like iPhone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, it's not true. You don't actually need to do mods to keep a 1-2 year old Samsung flagship phone running fast, smooth, and low-battery sucking. Perhaps your problems are with Google Services settings and Google's inability to fix bugs in their software. Avoid that software, use Samsung's instead.
dylansmith said:
Will the Pixel be very comparable to the iPhone in all aspects?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, that is true. Google Pixel XL will be a very basic phone with limited capabilities.
dylansmith said:
What will I lose (other than obvious things like the screen) by jumping from S8 to Pixel?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, it is true. You will lose quite a bit. Here's a list in no particular order:
1) Infinity Display / Curved edges / sense of style / 84% screen to body ratio.
2) Best brightness and best brightness in sunlight ratings.
3) HDR screen certification.
4) IP68 water and dust proofing.
5) Gorilla Glass 5 durability.
6) Wireless charging and Fast Wireless Charging.
7) Micro SD card expansion.
8) Best in class low light camera performance. Best in class camera sharpness performance. Best in class selfie camera.
9) Bluetooth 5.0
10) Always On Display.
11) LTE-4CA, twice faster LTE.
12) Samsung Pay, which works everywhere, even without NFC terminals. Works with magnetic stripe readers, which is unique, because no other pay systems can do that.
13) Iris scanner security.
14) SpO2 meter, heart rate sensor.
15) Desktop dock option with optimized desktop OS.
16) Bixby - **** Bixby. Minus 10 points here.
So, you see? You would be losing A LOT!

nabbed said:
No, it is not true. Pixel XL uses Snapdragon 821 cpu, which is already obsolete today. The most current and fastest cpu in USA is Snapdragon 835, which is about 30% faster than 821 used in Pixel. In 3 years, this phone will be a complete hog, giving you maybe less that 15 frames per second... If Google keeps updating the OS. If it doesn't, it will stay the same speed. Ironic...
No, it is not true. Pixel XL is one of the worst battery draining flagship phones on the market today. Its use of Google Assistant constantly in the background is the major source of battery drain, unless you disable it. But when you disable it, you lose a lot of functionality like the weather widget on main screen, or any other functionality associated with it. Even Galaxy S7/8, with always on display technology, drains less battery than Pixel XL. It's a battery hog. On the other hand, it's active usage battery drain is compatible with other flagship phones. But when you turn off the screen, prepare for a beating.
...
So, you see? You would be losing A LOT!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
2 things
1 - The Pixel XL gives me 7 to 8 hours SOT, location and assistant all on normally. On standby, drain is less than 1%. I call that impressive.
2 - 821 may be the "not the best" but it is still the second best. I have both the iPhone 6 (not S), and the OnePlus One (running a Snapdragon 801) and they're both still rocking it and are smooth as butter. They are both 3 years old. Nothing gets slowed down or becomes heavy and stuttering unless you're installing a crapload of useless things on it. Pixel being a Pixel will get Android O and even Android P, which will surely optimize it even further.

dylansmith said:
Is it true that the Pixel will remain buttery smooth throughout its entire lifespan (say 3 years)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I get little pauses at times when some of my Tasker routines run, so realistically I doubt if I would describe the phone that way after three years.
I've been using Samsung all along and frankly quite tired of doing mods just to keep it fast, smooth, low-battery sucking, just like iPhone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had an iPhone 7 before getting the regular Pixel. The iPhone clearly had better battery life for my usage patterns out of the box. I've made a bunch of changes to the Pixel so that it's comparable to the iPhone and my previous phone, but out of the box I would tend to expect Apple to have the edge.
Lastly, when will Pixel 2 be out?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It will probably release during the same time of the year as the last two phones. The wiki has the announcement and first availability dates.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pixel_(smartphone)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nexus_6P

alluringreality said:
I get little pauses at times when some of my Tasker routines run, so realistically I doubt if I would describe the phone that way after three years.
I had an iPhone 7 before getting the regular Pixel. The iPhone clearly had better battery life for my usage patterns out of the box. I've made a bunch of changes to the Pixel so that it's comparable to the iPhone and my previous phone, but out of the box I would tend to expect Apple to have the edge.
It will probably release during the same time of the year as the last two phones. The wiki has the announcement and first availability dates.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pixel_(smartphone)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nexus_6P
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just curious, what changes have you made?
Rooting aside - as for the first time I do not feel a need to root a device.

A lot of my setup relies on Tasker to automatically make setting changes, so it requires root or something like AutoTools Secure Settings on an unrooted phone. My impression was that typically turning off adaptive brightness when indoors may be one of the bigger battery savers from the list. I also had issues with my phone burning through lots of battery when I left wifi on, so automatically shutting off wifi when not in use was another big battery saver, although I hadn't tried changing "Keep Wi-Fi on during sleep" before installing Tasker. I doubt if the average person would benefit much by things like turning off Google Assistant, but I was trying to get the best standby battery life that I could for the times when I just use the Pixel as nothing more than a phone for talking and texting.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=71146945&postcount=301

How do you like the pixel?

Well I pulled the trigger on a 128gb pixel xl today from google. It is supposed to ship out on May 5th. The battery on my 6p has degraded over time and it's no longer within warranty. So how are you guys enjoying the phone? What kind of battery life are you getting. I am glad to be upgrading to the SD821 from the 810. Is throttling much of an issue?
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

znel52 said:
Well I pulled the trigger on a 128gb pixel xl today from google. It is supposed to ship out on May 5th. The battery on my 6p has degraded over time and it's no longer within warranty. So how are you guys enjoying the phone? What kind of battery life are you getting. I am glad to be upgrading to the SD821 from the 810. Is throttling much of an issue?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello,
I also had an N6P before the XL. I must say it took me some time to get used to the smaller screen, but after a few days, it's ok. I would like a N6P or N6P like Pixel XL 2 though... Camera is awesome. Screen colors could have been better. You can correct it a bit with a custom kernel and a kernel manager app though. I don't listen to music with my phone, but with the arrival of Android O and the new codecs, I guess I'm going to buy some good earbuds soon.
About battery life? I used to get decent battery with the N6P. Note that i am on wifi 90% of the time. I don't use social network apps. Mostly web browsing, SMS/MMS, photos and some YouTube. Check the attached screenshot. Since last charge, I only used my phone for web browsing on wifi. But with mixed usage, lot of apps syncing and 4G/LTE I guess it would be much less.
Phone stays cool where N6P used to get warm... Not using my phone for intensive tasks either but I can feel the difference. I don't play games, so I have never really experienced throttling with N6P either. Just the phone getting hotter than any other phones I already owned...
Hope that helps...
Cheers...

5.1 said:
Hello,
I also had an N6P before the XL. I must say it took me some time to get used to the smaller screen, but after a few days, it's ok. I would like a N6P or N6P like Pixel XL 2 though... [emoji14] Camera is awesome. Screen colors could have been better. You can correct it a bit with a custom kernel and a kernel manager app though. I don't listen to music with my phone, but with the arrival of Android O and the new codecs, I guess I'm going to buy some good earbuds soon.
About battery life? I used to get decent battery with the N6P. Note that i am on wifi 90% of the time. I don't use social network apps. Mostly web browsing, SMS/MMS, photos and some YouTube. Check the attached screenshot. Since last charge, I only used my phone for web browsing on wifi. But with mixed usage, lot of apps syncing and 4G/LTE I guess it would be much less.
Phone stays cool where N6P used to get warm... Not using my phone for intensive tasks either but I can feel the difference. I don't play games, so I have never really experienced throttling with N6P either. Just the phone getting hotter than any other phones I already owned...
Hope that helps...
Cheers...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you!
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

Love the software the only phone I've bought that never lagged or stuttered on me EAS is amazing but price is a bit questionable other than the camera not really getting much for the price would of loved better audio one thing the Pixel is terrible at other than that it's a good phone

liam_davenport said:
Love the software the only phone I've bought that never lagged or stuttered on me EAS is amazing but price is a bit questionable other than the camera not really getting much for the price would of loved better audio one thing the Pixel is terrible at other than that it's a good phone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks man!
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

Best camera, so awesome that even after selling the phone it keeps haunting me or something.
Best software experience. Phone is not as fast as a OP3T or something but I care about consistent performance and smoothness over burst performance.
Incredible call quality.
Very good battery life too.
The only reason I sold the phone was because of the touch screen issue I had on mine and then two other Pixels I tried too. Probably a hardware issue, or software calibration of the display, whatever it is it was annoying enough for me to not be able to use the phone, especially when I play games which require continuous touching.

Came from Nexus 6P (with a stop with iPhone 7+ until I got my Pixel XL) and to me its just an upgraded 6P, I loved my 6P only reason I got rid of it is I am on Verizon and they dont support WiFi calling with it and I built a new house with 9' basement and got no service whatsoever down there. Only thing I would change on the Pixel is cosmetic. Thing isnt the best looking phone but I'll take performance/stable/smooth and solid over how it looks any day. Tried the LG G6 and S8+ briefly and came right back to Pixel because it is still better IMO.

Coming from the 6P and OP3, it's a huge upgrade from the 6P in battery life, build quality, camera and performance, and a moderate upgrade from the OP3. Touch lag is pretty much nonexistent or barely perceptible, software is the best Google has ever released. You'll probably love it.
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

Gilley said:
Came from Nexus 6P (with a stop with iPhone 7+ until I got my Pixel XL) and to me its just an upgraded 6P, I loved my 6P only reason I got rid of it is I am on Verizon and they dont support WiFi calling with it and I built a new house with 9' basement and got no service whatsoever down there. Only thing I would change on the Pixel is cosmetic. Thing isnt the best looking phone but I'll take performance/stable/smooth and solid over how it looks any day. Tried the LG G6 and S8+ briefly and came right back to Pixel because it is still better IMO.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm in the same boat currently. Moved into a new house & my Verizon coverage is spotty. Just found out the 6P can't do wifi calling on Verizon so I need another device. Did you buy your XL from Verizon or from the Google store? Trying to see if the unlocked version from Google will do wifi calling on Verizon

untouchablez said:
I'm in the same boat currently. Moved into a new house & my Verizon coverage is spotty. Just found out the 6P can't do wifi calling on Verizon so I need another device. Did you buy your XL from Verizon or from the Google store? Trying to see if the unlocked version from Google will do wifi calling on Verizon
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea the Google version will do everything the Verizon version does and has unlocked bootloader if you ever plan on switching out ROMs etc. I have the Verizon version and wished I had the Google version if that helps.

I'm enjoying it a lot.

Gilley said:
Yea the Google version will do everything the Verizon version does and has unlocked bootloader if you ever plan on switching out ROMs etc. I have the Verizon version and wished I had the Google version if that helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes Im definitely trying to avoid the Verizon version due to the locked bootloader. Love my 6p but I need wifi calling and the pixel is really the only option sadly.

Performance is amazing, no lag, scrolling smoothness is great, apps load quick. My only real criticism is the small SBR. But hey, I knew that before I bought it.

My iPhone is my daily driver. I am too invested in its software to Let It Go especially for work purposes. Whenever a new Samsung Galaxy phone comes out I always purchase it to test it out and it never lasts more than 2 weeks before I return it because I just hate the software and the lagginess. I have been eyeing the pixel XL for quite some time but I always got discouraged to purchase it given that it was consistently unavailable, and had long shipping wait times. Anyhow, I recently lucked out and was in the situation where I was able to purchase the pixel XL and took the plunge. All I can say is that the pixel XL is the smoothest Android phone I've ever used. This is really a step that Samsung needs to take if it intends to take away any of Apple's business. I personally care for good Hardware but put a premium on a phone's software. That is why I tend to always use the iPhone as my daily driver. But to be honest I've been using the pixel a lot more than my iPhone. I'm loving this phone. If you took this software and put it on the new Galaxy S8, the Galaxy S8 would probably be the phone of the year in my opinion. In the time I have been using the pixel, the phone has not lagged one time. I even overloaded the phone with applications and the phone still performs smoothly.

thdaddy34 said:
My iPhone is my daily driver. I am too invested in its software to Let It Go especially for work purposes. Whenever a new Samsung Galaxy phone comes out I always purchase it to test it out and it never lasts more than 2 weeks before I return it because I just hate the software and the lagginess. I have been eyeing the pixel XL for quite some time but I always got discouraged to purchase it given that it was consistently unavailable, and had long shipping wait times. Anyhow, I recently lucked out and was in the situation where I was able to purchase the pixel XL and took the plunge. All I can say is that the pixel XL is the smoothest Android phone I've ever used. This is really a step that Samsung needs to take if it intends to take away any of Apple's business. I personally care for good Hardware but put a premium on a phone's software. That is why I tend to always use the iPhone as my daily driver. But to be honest I've been using the pixel a lot more than my iPhone. I'm loving this phone. If you took this software and put it on the new Galaxy S8, the Galaxy S8 would probably be the phone of the year in my opinion. In the time I have been using the pixel, the phone has not lagged one time. I even overloaded the phone with applications and the phone still performs smoothly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea I had an iPhone 7+ between my 6P and Pixel XL and like you said its so smooth and never lags, I use to be a big **** talker to my friends who used apple and after using it I get why people like it, just wasnt for me. I hated looking at 5000 icons and folders etc. If they ever got an app drawer it would be a different story but until then the OCD in me needs android and Pixel is the smoothest one out there. I too try each phone and I last maybe a week or so before I'm back to my Pixel because the new ones just cant keep up and arent worth $600-800 for how it looks.

Today I have a fight with my self about replacing my XL with S8+ , I was afraid of missing the software flexibility and customization and missing the smoothness and lag free software , so I decided to stay with the XL.
S8+ Have a nice screen , but actually using black profile on the kernel editor give me some sense of S8 screen colors .
Any way I couldn't replace the smoothness in XL with the screen colors in S8.

Anyone switched to the Galaxy Note 9?

Will I miss the fluidity of stock Android going to Note 9? Don't like the Pixel 3XL.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

I don't think you'll miss fluidity. The Note 9 shouldn't give you lag problems.
What you might miss is stock android. Samsung Experience isn't bad, but it isn't definitely for everyone.

lexi250 said:
Will I miss the fluidity of stock Android going to Note 9? Don't like the Pixel 3XL.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. I did for 24 hours and returned it. Screen is amazing. Camera still is ok, but not the quality of Googles. The reason I didn't keep it was I still prefer simplicity of things. The Note 9, while extremely nice, is just loaded with so much ****. The S pen, very nice, but to be honest I'll rarely use it. Throw in the fact its over $1000 with taxes, I really couldn't justify having it. I loved the bigger cleaner brighter screen but again, it's that price. It's a great phone, but I found myself loading Oreo themes on it to keep myself sane. Ohhhhhhhhh BIGGEST FACTOR-no wifi calling added. I called Verizon and they weren't sure either. This was an imperative thing I need cause where I live signal is weak and I found myself almost unable to make calls at home.

I know this doesn't answer your question but I went from the Note 8 to the Pixel 2 XL as it is more reliable day to day use. Yes the Note series has some extra features but I prefer stock Android with monthly updates. Battery life has also been better on the Pixel 2 XL for me. However I would think that Samsung would have sorted battery issues with the Note 9s 4000 mah battery. I am still enjoying my Pixel 2 XL still runs smooth with no hiccups.
To me I would rather get Huawei Mate series over samsung Note series. Especially the upcoming Mate 20 Pro.

MHB1638 said:
Yes. I did for 24 hours and returned it. Screen is amazing. Camera still is ok, but not the quality of Googles. The reason I didn't keep it was I still prefer simplicity of things. The Note 9, while extremely nice, is just loaded with so much ****. The S pen, very nice, but to be honest I'll rarely use it. Throw in the fact its over $1000 with taxes, I really couldn't justify having it. I loved the bigger cleaner brighter screen but again, it's that price. It's a great phone, but I found myself loading Oreo themes on it to keep myself sane. Ohhhhhhhhh BIGGEST FACTOR-no wifi calling added. I called Verizon and they weren't sure either. This was an imperative thing I need cause where I live signal is weak and I found myself almost unable to make calls at home.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can make a Samsung phone look like a Pixel, but will still have all of Samsung's bloatware running in the background...which is why the Note 9 needs a 4000 mAh battery, and the Note 8 battery was inadequate.
If I ever go back to a Samsung phone, I will get a Note for the Spen. I didn't use the Spen much when I had my Note 2/3/4, and I probably wouldn't use it now. But the Spen is the only feature that makes Samsung truly unique. A Samsung phone without a Spen is just another phone but with a bunch of crap that I will never need.
It sounds like you must have purchased an unlocked Note 9. Most unlocked phones never allow WiFi calling or visual voicemail on VZW. Pixels are a rare exception.

I haven't yet but I will. Lately my Pixel 2 XL is crazy laggy and I'm not getting a Pixel 3 XL with only 4GB of RAM.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

What I would give for the Note 9 HW with Google SW .. Until then I'm sticking with the SW from Google
If I were to switch phones (which I won't) it would be the OnePlus 6 or OnePlus 6T

Sab3elbromba said:
What I would give for the Note 9 HW with Google SW .. Until then I'm sticking with the SW from Google
If I were to switch phones (which I won't) it would be the OnePlus 6 or OnePlus 6T
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its a shame OP6 doesn't work on CMDA networks as I require Verizon network for where I work.

Switched From Pixel 2XL to Note 9 Today. . .
And I'm already regretting it. Verizon had a BOGO, and since I was porting my brother's line in anyway, decided to treat myself to a new Note 9, damn the fact I only got my Pixel 2XL the week of Christmas.
This is a nice rig, feels substantial and solid, but chew gum, Google cooks Android just the way I like it, and Samsung's UI is still just too busy for me to abide. My poor wife will prolly find herself with an unexpected upgrade to a Note 9 of own by week's end lol.
That said, if anyone knows of some witchcraft that'll allow me to see least make this Note 9 LOOK look like my beloved Pixel 2XL, please, let me know.
Thank you -zs

Nope, after using flagship Samsung devices for years, I'm keeping my "stock", bloatfree Android experience.
Quality software > slightly better hardware

sublimaze said:
You can make a Samsung phone look like a Pixel, but will still have all of Samsung's bloatware running in the background...which is why the Note 9 needs a 4000 mAh battery, and the Note 8 battery was inadequate.
If I ever go back to a Samsung phone, I will get a Note for the Spen. I didn't use the Spen much when I had my Note 2/3/4, and I probably wouldn't use it now. But the Spen is the only feature that makes Samsung truly unique. A Samsung phone without a Spen is just another phone but with a bunch of crap that I will never need.
It sounds like you must have purchased an unlocked Note 9. Most unlocked phones never allow WiFi calling or visual voicemail on VZW. Pixels are a rare exception.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The closest you can get to making a Note 9 (or any other Samsung phone) look like a Pixel is by installing the Pixel launcher which is only a small part.

I think you should wait and keep the pixel 2 xl. It's highly likely that next year's s10 and note 10 will have a much more radical design with way better specs. The note 9 while nice, is nothing special. Samsung is now under more pressure than ever to update their design. My advice keep the phone , save your money.
lexi250 said:
Will I miss the fluidity of stock Android going to Note 9? Don't like the Pixel 3XL.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

I know I sure as hell won't be getting a Note 9. I've been on stock Android since replacing my old Galaxy S2(that phone was such a piece of ****...worst purchase I've ever made) with a Nexus 5 followed by a Nexus 5X and my current Pixel 2 XL. Even though Samsung's software has improved quite a bit since the Galaxy S2 I still personally think it's crap compared to stock Android. Haven't used the Note 9 enough to tell if there is any lag but the Note 8 still had noticable lag and still has the same issues with greatly decreased performance after major updates that the Galaxy S2 had.
Also, considering the hardware the Note 9 battery life seems to be unimpressive. A brand new phone with a SD 845 and 4000mAh battery seems to be getting the same battery life as my 10 month old Pixel 2 XL with a SD 835 and 3520mAh battery.

I did, used it for 6 days and am back to my Pixel 2 XL and plan on selling the Note 9 on Swappa. Note 9 is nice and is certainly feature rich, but I just wasn't feeling it.

I have both the Pixel 2 XL and an unlocked Note 9, 512 GB/8 GB RAM. The software experience on the Pixel 2 XL is smoother but lacks customization. Here's what I did to achieve a clean look on the Note 9 and performance is very fast.
Install Nova Launcher
Install PixelizeD theme
Install patched Google Phone app
Install Nova Launcher
Install Gboard
Install Android Messages or Textra
Disable or deny permissions to Samsung equivalents
The Note 9 with better/bigger screen, bigger battery, more RAM, wireless charging, theme options is definitely my daily driver.
The Pixel 2 XL doesn't require any tweaks for smooth performance, but some may find the software too minimalist. The superior camera and fast updates are it's strongest selling points at the moment. Once Google fully implements its new material design with light and dark themes, it may finally have the cohesive look that skinned interfaces have provided.

Until (or if? ) Samsung fixes this I cannot foresee myself using the Note 9. This picture is unacceptable for a $1000+ device IMO

So, full disclosure - after posting the same pics on another forum someone suggested I check the rear picture camera size setting on my Note 9. Kinda feel stupid for not thinking about that myself as I have been tinkering with smartphones going on 10 years now ... but as it would turn out the size was set to 18.5:9 (7.9 MP) and not 4:3 (12 MP). Don't recall ever messing with this setting, but even if I did I would not opt for the lower MPs ... I just assumed it would be set to the max MP out of the box. Anyways, hoping this makes a substantial difference in what I've been seeing from the Note 9 pics, we shall see.

YankInDaSouth said:
So, full disclosure - after posting the same pics on another forum someone suggested I check the rear picture camera size setting on my Note 9. Kinda feel stupid for not thinking about that myself as I have been tinkering with smartphones going on 10 years now ... but as it would turn out the size was set to 18.5:9 (7.9 MP) and not 4:3 (12 MP). Don't recall ever messing with this setting, but even if I did I would not opt for the lower MPs ... I just assumed it would be set to the max MP out of the box. Anyways, hoping this makes a substantial difference in what I've been seeing from the Note 9 pics, we shall see.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It still suggests a bug, because the camera should be capturing with square pixels, and the pixels should be displayed 1:1 -- scaled linearly in both dimensions.

le0.br4zuc4 said:
I haven't yet but I will. Lately my Pixel 2 XL is crazy laggy and I'm not getting a Pixel 3 XL with only 4GB of RAM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Return it if it is crazy laggy. They will switch it out for you no question aaked

YankInDaSouth said:
Until (or if? ) Samsung fixes this I cannot foresee myself using the Note 9. This picture is unacceptable for a $1000+ device IMO
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Taimen is still a slayer! Yaass!

Question pairing the pixel 6 with the galaxy watch 4

So it looks like this might be my next phone but I have a few questions
1. Is it still worth it to have my samsung galaxy watch 4? I know there are a few features that you lose if you dont have a samsung device like ECG and body measurement features.
2. Is it going to be better to get the pro instead of waiting til next year to get the s21 ultra because I was thinking about that as well since the price might come down.

1. Yes keep it, you loose very little with this (if anything). You can enable blood pressure and ECG with this (currently running it on OnePlus 8Pro and it works without issues):
How to enable ECG and Blood Pressure features on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4
Here's how you can enable ECG and blood pressure monitoring on your Galaxy Watch 4 in all regions, even with non-Samsung phones.
www.xda-developers.com
So just some fiddling around, but you only need to do this once and you're set to go.
2. No one can tell you what is better for you but I can share how I decided to return to Google.
The most important phone feature for me always been smoothness. Long time ago I switched from Nexus 5 to Samsung Note 4. It was supposed to be a step up with the newer processor, but Sammy let me down big time.
I was shook by how much smoother the Nexus was. I was chasing for a better performance for Note 4, so I tried rooting, custom roms etc., but without luck. Nexus 5 was simply much better in that regard.
What I learned about Google phones in the long run:
I was used to getting a poorer and poorer performance from Samsung as the phone aged. With Nexus and Pixels it was always the other way around. In my experience Google phones were not that great when they got released, but in months, with help of updates, they started flying.
I loved the community support around these devices. What most called 'a plain' version of Android, happened to be as rich in functionality as I would want them to be (with help of rooting and some neat apps). Also, Google phones had the reputation of being a compromise choice. E.g. with Pixel 2 people didn't like the screen. Meanwhile I absolutely adored it because I knew there were tools that allowed you to adjust display as you like. If not the community, I would've never learned about this though.
Reviews never called full justice over these devices for some reason. I was rarely finding a review that would justify my experiences with Google phones. It felt like the reviewers were playing around with them for a couple of weeks and then putting them back to the drawer. A Nexus/Pixel in early days without rooting for me seemed like a waste (things have changed now days, I don't see a reason for rooting anymore).
I split ways with Pixel after 2XL. Although it was a really amazing phone, Pixels 3 and 4 didn't seem attractive for me with the price.
I went to OnePlus with 7 PRO which was offering a clean enough OS, smooth performance and insane screen. Really amazing phone.
8 PRO is still ok, but it never felt like a step forwards from 7 PRO (except from camera). Software updates got very slow, i'm not even sure if 8 is supported anymore, lol. I have very little to no hope in regards to the unified OS they are bringing.
I have 0 complaints about Galaxy Tab S7, so I considered Samsung 21 Ultra. I liked it when I got a chance to use it in a store. But after the atrocious experiences with Note 4 and some short time spent with Galaxy 9, 10, I still don't see myself using a Samsung phone.
In Pixel 6 video comments I saw people raging on 21 Ultra for slowness, battery issues so it looks like not much has changed unfortunately.
When I heard about Google working on a chip for Pixel, that got me excited. As long as it's at least comparably as fast as SD 865, but is smooth, I will be more than happy to return to the vanilla Android. Can't lie, I missed it.
Summarizing, if you owned a Pixel before, you should know pretty well what's to expect and whether you liked it or not. If that would be your first Pixel device, just go for it. This year seems to be the best time ever to join #TeamPixel.

BabeShaq said:
1. Yes keep it, you loose very little with this (if anything). You can enable blood pressure and ECG with this (currently running it on OnePlus 8Pro and it works without issues):
How to enable ECG and Blood Pressure features on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4
Here's how you can enable ECG and blood pressure monitoring on your Galaxy Watch 4 in all regions, even with non-Samsung phones.
www.xda-developers.com
So just some fiddling around, but you only need to do this once and you're set to go.
2. No one can tell you what is better for you but I can share how I decided to return to Google.
The most important phone feature for me always been smoothness. Long time ago I switched from Nexus 5 to Samsung Note 4. It was supposed to be a step up with the newer processor, but Sammy let me down big time.
I was shook by how much smoother the Nexus was. I was chasing for a better performance for Note 4, so I tried rooting, custom roms etc., but without luck. Nexus 5 was simply much better in that regard.
What I learned about Google phones in the long run:
I was used to getting a poorer and poorer performance from Samsung as the phone aged. With Nexus and Pixels it was always the other way around. In my experience Google phones were not that great when they got released, but in months, with help of updates, they started flying.
I loved the community support around these devices. What most called 'a plain' version of Android, happened to be as rich in functionality as I would want them to be (with help of rooting and some neat apps). Also, Google phones had the reputation of being a compromise choice. E.g. with Pixel 2 people didn't like the screen. Meanwhile I absolutely adored it because I knew there were tools that allowed you to adjust display as you like. If not the community, I would've never learned about this though.
Reviews never called full justice over these devices for some reason. I was rarely finding a review that would justify my experiences with Google phones. It felt like the reviewers were playing around with them for a couple of weeks and then putting them back to the drawer. A Nexus/Pixel in early days without rooting for me seemed like a waste (things have changed now days, I don't see a reason for rooting anymore).
I split ways with Pixel after 2XL. Although it was a really amazing phone, Pixels 3 and 4 didn't seem attractive for me with the price.
I went to OnePlus with 7 PRO which was offering a clean enough OS, smooth performance and insane screen. Really amazing phone.
8 PRO is still ok, but it never felt like a step forwards from 7 PRO (except from camera). Software updates got very slow, i'm not even sure if 8 is supported anymore, lol. I have very little to no hope in regards to the unified OS they are bringing.
I have 0 complaints about Galaxy Tab S7, so I considered Samsung 21 Ultra. I liked it when I got a chance to use it in a store. But after the atrocious experiences with Note 4 and some short time spent with Galaxy 9, 10, I still don't see myself using a Samsung phone.
In Pixel 6 video comments I saw people raging on 21 Ultra for slowness, battery issues so it looks like not much has changed unfortunately.
When I heard about Google working on a chip for Pixel, that got me excited. As long as it's at least comparably as fast as SD 865, but is smooth, I will be more than happy to return to the vanilla Android. Can't lie, I missed it.
Summarizing, if you owned a Pixel before, you should know pretty well what's to expect and whether you liked it or not. If that would be your first Pixel device, just go for it. This year seems to be the best time ever to join #TeamPixel.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You make some really great points. If I can get those features paired with a 6 pro then I'll probably go for it. I don't normally use those features but it's just something about me if I don't get the full of experience of a device I paid $450 for. This does seem like the perfect time to move over to pixel. Battery life means a lot to me and with that 5000mah I'm pretty much sold on it. On top of that if this is anything like what apple is doing with their bionic chip then battery life should be really good.

I'm also not sure if I should do 128gb or 256gb

I plan on using my cool galaxy watch 4 with this badboy device! Cheers

I just pre-ordered mine. 128gb stormy black. Gonna put a dbrand skin on it

orlans21 said:
You make some really great points. If I can get those features paired with a 6 pro then I'll probably go for it. I don't normally use those features but it's just something about me if I don't get the full of experience of a device I paid $450 for. This does seem like the perfect time to move over to pixel. Battery life means a lot to me and with that 5000mah I'm pretty much sold on it. On top of that if this is anything like what apple is doing with their bionic chip then battery life should be really good.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a galaxy watch 4 with a pixel 4xl. I use the modified apps and they work great. It's not hard at all to get them installed. Simple ADB for the watch.

gettinwicked said:
I have a galaxy watch 4 with a pixel 4xl. I use the modified apps and they work great. It's not hard at all to get them installed. Simple ADB for the watch.
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Thats good to know. I'll do that when i get it

orlans21 said:
So it looks like this might be my next phone but I have a few questions
1. Is it still worth it to have my samsung galaxy watch 4? I know there are a few features that you lose if you dont have a samsung device like ECG and body measurement features.
2. Is it going to be better to get the pro instead of waiting til next year to get the s21 ultra because I was thinking about that as well since the price might come down.
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I don't know if you've bought the phone yet, but you may want to hold off on that. I've been having problems - the watch (Galaxy Watch 4) and phone (6 Pro) both pair initially just fine. But if I restart my phone, the phone won't reconnect to the watch, and the galaxy wearable app seems to have forgotten the watch. The only way to reconnect them is to reset the watch completely. Considering returning the phone over it.

ailinmcc666 said:
I don't know if you've bought the phone yet, but you may want to hold off on that. I've been having problems - the watch (Galaxy Watch 4) and phone (6 Pro) both pair initially just fine. But if I restart my phone, the phone won't reconnect to the watch, and the galaxy wearable app seems to have forgotten the watch. The only way to reconnect them is to reset the watch completely. Considering returning the phone over it.
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I have bought the phone but I dont have it yet. But that is interesting to hear. Maybe make a post about it in the GW4 forums

ailinmcc666 said:
I don't know if you've bought the phone yet, but you may want to hold off on that. I've been having problems - the watch (Galaxy Watch 4) and phone (6 Pro) both pair initially just fine. But if I restart my phone, the phone won't reconnect to the watch, and the galaxy wearable app seems to have forgotten the watch. The only way to reconnect them is to reset the watch completely. Considering returning the phone over it.
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That maybe android 12 issue rather then phone

ailinmcc666 said:
I don't know if you've bought the phone yet, but you may want to hold off on that. I've been having problems - the watch (Galaxy Watch 4) and phone (6 Pro) both pair initially just fine. But if I restart my phone, the phone won't reconnect to the watch, and the galaxy wearable app seems to have forgotten the watch. The only way to reconnect them is to reset the watch completely. Considering returning the phone over it.
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I have the same setup as you. I don't have this issue at all. Maybe occasionally after a reboot I'll have to go the app and hit connect, but it's quick to do so.
Overall, I think the experience is what I hoped for.

BabeShaq said:
1. Yes keep it, you loose very little with this (if anything). You can enable blood pressure and ECG with this (currently running it on OnePlus 8Pro and it works without issues):
How to enable ECG and Blood Pressure features on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4
Here's how you can enable ECG and blood pressure monitoring on your Galaxy Watch 4 in all regions, even with non-Samsung phones.
www.xda-developers.com
So just some fiddling around, but you only need to do this once and you're set to go.
2. No one can tell you what is better for you but I can share how I decided to return to Google.
The most important phone feature for me always been smoothness. Long time ago I switched from Nexus 5 to Samsung Note 4. It was supposed to be a step up with the newer processor, but Sammy let me down big time.
I was shook by how much smoother the Nexus was. I was chasing for a better performance for Note 4, so I tried rooting, custom roms etc., but without luck. Nexus 5 was simply much better in that regard.
What I learned about Google phones in the long run:
I was used to getting a poorer and poorer performance from Samsung as the phone aged. With Nexus and Pixels it was always the other way around. In my experience Google phones were not that great when they got released, but in months, with help of updates, they started flying.
I loved the community support around these devices. What most called 'a plain' version of Android, happened to be as rich in functionality as I would want them to be (with help of rooting and some neat apps). Also, Google phones had the reputation of being a compromise choice. E.g. with Pixel 2 people didn't like the screen. Meanwhile I absolutely adored it because I knew there were tools that allowed you to adjust display as you like. If not the community, I would've never learned about this though.
Reviews never called full justice over these devices for some reason. I was rarely finding a review that would justify my experiences with Google phones. It felt like the reviewers were playing around with them for a couple of weeks and then putting them back to the drawer. A Nexus/Pixel in early days without rooting for me seemed like a waste (things have changed now days, I don't see a reason for rooting anymore).
I split ways with Pixel after 2XL. Although it was a really amazing phone, Pixels 3 and 4 didn't seem attractive for me with the price.
I went to OnePlus with 7 PRO which was offering a clean enough OS, smooth performance and insane screen. Really amazing phone.
8 PRO is still ok, but it never felt like a step forwards from 7 PRO (except from camera). Software updates got very slow, i'm not even sure if 8 is supported anymore, lol. I have very little to no hope in regards to the unified OS they are bringing.
I have 0 complaints about Galaxy Tab S7, so I considered Samsung 21 Ultra. I liked it when I got a chance to use it in a store. But after the atrocious experiences with Note 4 and some short time spent with Galaxy 9, 10, I still don't see myself using a Samsung phone.
In Pixel 6 video comments I saw people raging on 21 Ultra for slowness, battery issues so it looks like not much has changed unfortunately.
When I heard about Google working on a chip for Pixel, that got me excited. As long as it's at least comparably as fast as SD 865, but is smooth, I will be more than happy to return to the vanilla Android. Can't lie, I missed it.
Summarizing, if you owned a Pixel before, you should know pretty well what's to expect and whether you liked it or not. If that would be your first Pixel device, just go for it. This year seems to be the best time ever to join #TeamPixel.
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Thanks for the advice. It does seem like a good time to join the Pixel family. Only device I've seen previously is my partner, who has a Pixel 4a, which I've used a bit, and I found it to be a impressive device.
I'll stick with it for now, maybe do a factory reset without restoring from a backup, go in fresh, and maybe that will help with this problem.

orlans21 said:
You make some really great points. If I can get those features paired with a 6 pro then I'll probably go for it. I don't normally use those features but it's just something about me if I don't get the full of experience of a device I paid $450 for. This does seem like the perfect time to move over to pixel. Battery life means a lot to me and with that 5000mah I'm pretty much sold on it. On top of that if this is anything like what apple is doing with their bionic chip then battery life should be really good.
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Battery life has been strange for me on the device - sometimes it's unbelievably good, other times, it seems to drain quite fast. But I haven't really kept track of my usage on those days, so it could have been something I'm doing sometimes to drain it fast.

ailinmcc666 said:
Battery life has been strange for me on the device - sometimes it's unbelievably good, other times, it seems to drain quite fast. But I haven't really kept track of my usage on those days, so it could have been something I'm doing sometimes to drain it fast.
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It can drain fast if you have weak cell service and its also adaptive battery so it could be learning your usage

gettinwicked said:
I have a galaxy watch 4 with a pixel 4xl. I use the modified apps and they work great. It's not hard at all to get them installed. Simple ADB for the watch.
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Do u need a computer? If yes. Then Is not"simple". Lol

ajftl said:
Do u need a computer? If yes. Then Is not"simple". Lol
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It really is dude. You turn on adb debugging on the watch, connect to it via wifi, put in like 3 commands and done. Also, if you're in XDA, this is probably the most simple thing you do to devices.
Adb connect 'ip'
Adb -s install 'ip' watch4.xxx
Adb disconnect 'ip'
Done

I have no issue with pairing. Phone and watch work good together.