Pixel 2 models to get another unique launcher, more

Google’s Pixel 2 leaks continue ahead of its October 4 official unveiling. A source who claims to have played with the Verizon version of the Pixel 2 has revealed some of the software features that Google has baked into the device. Chief among these is that Google will once again give its Pixel flagship a unique Android launcher to help differentiate from other devices running Android 8.0 Oreo. In this case, the search bar is apparently located below the dock, while the Google home page also gets an all-new look.

Another new feature set to appear on the device is an always-on Shazam-like feature that will automatically show the artist and title on the lockscreen when it detects any music playing nearby. As previously rumored, the HTC-made device will feature squeezable edges. In this implementation, it will instantly launch Google Assistant so that it is ready to receive voice commands. The function will also work when the Pixel 2 is in sleep mode. The single rear camera will offer a software-based portrait mode like the original Pixel.

A couple of hardware features previously unknown have also been revealed in the latest leak. The Pixel 2 will feature something similar to HTC’s BoomSound with stereo speakers where the earphone piece also doubles as one of the loudspeakers. This will put it on par with the iPhone 8, which also includes a similar feature. Interestingly, unlike the iPhone 8 that uses 2.5D Gorilla Glass, the glass on the Pixel 2 is said to be quite flat.

All will be revealed soon enough with the Pixel 2 launch, which is now little more than a week away.

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