Google Pixel 6

The Pixel 6 is a phone that Google wanted to make for years but never succeeded. So Google first made its own chipset, the Tensor, and this Pixel 6 has the honor of being the first phone to get that chipset. It enables it to do things that it couldn't do before. Which exactly and whether this Pixel 6 can deliver on those promises we explore here.

Google Tensor

As a bit of a serious phone manufacturer, you don't belong anymore if you don't design your own chips. Much to the chagrin of Qualcomm, Google's previous main supplier, this year Google is using its own processor for the first time. This Tensor, like many other Google services, leans on artificial intelligence, or AI for short. Through Machine Learning, Google has taught the Pixel 6 what beautiful photos are and what not, and it applies that on a daily basis when you start working with it. High time for some concrete examples.

Exclusive camera features

And that starts with the camera, of course. On the back of the Pixel 6, we find a 50MP main camera and a 12MP ultra-wide-angle with 114° angle of view. The camera sensor is much larger this year and therefore 150% more sensitive to light. Night shots are therefore much better exposed. The Pixel phones are known for their HDR + mode where the best color setting, exposure and contrast are automatically chosen, now also works with video. Partly due to the extra processing power of the Tensor chip. This also makes new functions possible such as removing objects from the background. People, animals, trees. Everything you want to get rid of, it removes and fills in with what should be there. Or Motion Mode where you can add movement for extra dramatic footage. Portrait Mode to blur the background and Face Unblur to bring faces back into focus in out of focus photos. All camera features that are currently exclusive to this Pixel 6.

The power of language

Also outside the camera, Tensor helps to make this smartphone even smarter. While calling, for example. Ever have trouble remembering all the options from an automatic menu? Pixel 6 just shows them on screen as buttons. And are you put on hold? Pixel 6 listens for you when someone comes on the line and notifies you. You can do more important things in the meantime. Does Pixel 6 detect that you have an accident, such as a car crash? Then Pixel 6 automatically calls 112 and gives your location if you can not (anymore). More cheerful is the automatic translation function. Without an active internet connection, you can talk to the Pixel 6 in your native language and it will translate it into a foreign language. Handy for when you get lost abroad.

Main Google Pixel 6 Specifications

• 6.4-inch 90Hz Smooth Display with FHD+ resolution
• 50+12MP camera with Magic Eraser, Motion Mode and Face Unblur
• 8MP selfie camera with natural Portrait Mode thanks to Real Tone
• Google Tensor processor with Titan M2 security chip
• 8GB of RAM memory and choice of 128 or 256GB of storage
• 4616 mAh battery with 30W fast charge + wireless charging
• 5G support for extra fast mobile internet
• Waterproof IP68 body made of Gorilla Glass 6 and Victus

Back on top

Google has equipped the Pixel 6 with a 6.4-inch Smooth Display. That runs a screen refresh of 90Hz and a sharp FHD+ resolution. The 8MP selfie camera sits in a punch-hole at the top. The entire front is protected by Corning's latest Gorilla Glass Victus. On the back, you'll find Gorilla Glass 6 and the whole thing is IP68 waterproof. Inside is a reasonably sized 4614mAh battery that can be charged wirelessly and allows you to charge other devices wirelessly as well. There is support for fast wireless charging up to 21W via the separately available Google Pixel Stand (2nd generation). Wired, this Pixel can be charged quickly with 30W. All in all, the Pixel 6 can truly call itself high-end again and the price and additional camera features make it very attractive.