Google Pixel
The Google Pixel phone is displayed during the presentation of new Google hardware in San Francisco, California, U.S. October 4, 2016. Reuters/Beck Diefenbach

Google could not have picked a better time to launch its flagship phone, the Pixel. With everything that Samsung is currently going through with the Galaxy Note 7 crisis and Apple’s decision to remove the headphone jack from the iPhone 7, the Pixel just might be the best available phone out there.

Here are the best features of the Google Pixel that are currently making waves.

Excellent camera

Google did not choose the Pixel name for nothing. The company is proud of its smartphone’s camera, which is one of the main selling points. The Pixel’s 12.3-megapixel camera launches, shoots, enhances and saves pictures fast, and does all those things efficiently.

The resulting images are well-focused and the colours are dynamic. Close-range snaps are crisp and clear, while landscape shots preserve the features and the elements of the sceneries both near and far. As previously reported, Google is targeting photographers with the new Pixel phone, hoping to at least crack the top five cameras used on image hosting site Flickr.

Premium look and feel

The Pixel has an elegant and solid framework fused with its full-bodied aluminium design. It does look a bit like the iPhone, save for a few minor details like the bevelled edges. The phone’s body is splash and dust resistant, and weighs just right at 5.04 ounces.

Superb virtual butler

Since the Google Assistant is strongly integrated with Google’s own search engines, expect that the Pixel’s digital personal assistant is more than capable. Google is the world’s number one search engine and the Google Assistant will take full advantage of its vast resources to answer all queries possible.

The Google Assistant will ease things up as it can give directions, book reservations and set reminders. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. This virtual butler is meant to be used frequently in order for it to customise its algorithm to suit its owner’s preferences.

The Google Assistant is also more engaged compared to other digital assistants like Alexa (Amazon), Cortana (Microsoft) and Siri (Apple). Conversations with the Google Assistant feel more natural, and it follows up on previous queries for a longer, immersive exchange.

Robust chipset

The Pixel’s Snapdragon 821 processor makes it more than adequate to satisfy users who are always running multiple apps at any given time. The phone does not noticeably lag and remains smooth to operate. Games that are heavy on graphics prove to be no problem as well.

The Pixel is made available in Australia via Telstra, its exclusive carrier partner. They offer plans that start at $85 per month.

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