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Top 4 features that make the Google Pixel 6 stand out

Image source: Google Store.
Image source: Google Store.
The Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro have proven to be some of Google's most successful releases to date, having broken sales records despite a less-than-perfect launch season. Why have the devices been so popular? Let's have a look at some of the standout features of the Pixel pairing that might entice you.
Article compiled by Julian van der Merwe
The choices and comments made on this list belong solely to the author.

1. The Pixel software experience

Even back in the day with the Nexus phones that Google made in partnership with LG, Samsung, Motorola, HTC and Huawei, one thing you could always count on was a snappy, reliable and up to date operating system with some unique Google features. This has not changed with the Google Pixel 6. You still get Google's solid software experience with frequent software android updates guaranteed for 3 years and security patches for another 2 years after that. This software support means that if all goes well, you won't have to buy a new phone anytime soon and you will get continued feature updates to add to the already-present offline Google Assistant, live translation and call screening features. 

The Google Pixel 6 sports the sleek and minimalist software experience we have all come to expect from Google, this time with Android 12. Source: Notebookcheck.net
The Google Pixel 6 sports the sleek and minimalist software experience we have all come to expect from Google, this time with Android 12. Source: Notebookcheck.net

2. Fantastic hardware all-round

From the all-new Tensor SoC to the high refresh rate displays and sizeable batteries, the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro are sure to impress. The all-new custom silicon, designed in partnership with Samsung, integrates extra security features and allows Google to do as much AI processing on-device as possible, which leads to a more streamlined experience when using the Assistant. Moving away from AI features, the Tensor SoC also integrates a new, more powerful image signal processor to help speed up the camera experience and get the most out of the 50 MP and 12 MP rear camera couple. 

The custom Tensor SoC gives Google far greater control and integration along with the ability to use the processor to its full potential. Source: Google Store
The custom Tensor SoC gives Google far greater control and integration along with the ability to use the processor to its full potential. Source: Google Store

3. Classic Pixel photography chops

Speaking of camera chops, the Pixel 6 offers some of the best camera performance on any smartphone out now. Often punching above its weight class, the camera system offers great performance in pretty much all conditions thanks to the long awaited upgraded 50 MP optically stabilised main sensor working together with the 12 MP ultrawide lens. Combine the upgraded hardware with Google's new image signal processor and fantastic software processing and you get clean, bright images and videos that even give the iPhone 13 a run for its money. 

According to Google, the main camera on the Pixel 6 lets in 150% more light and the image processing algorithm has been adjusted to more accurately represent different skin tones. Source: Google Store
According to Google, the main camera on the Pixel 6 lets in 150% more light and the image processing algorithm has been adjusted to more accurately represent different skin tones. Source: Google Store

4. The unique hardware designs

One factor often overlooked when nerds geek out over specs is the physical design of the product in question. While core count, sensor size and GHz are super important to those of us who are more technically inclined, many people take aesthetics heavily into consideration. While the Google Pixel 6's camera bar has been divisive, it is easy to see why someone might even overlook that specific design element. The pastel two-tone back on the Pixel 6 series is nothing if not unique. In a world of glossy white and matt black high-end phones, it is refreshing to see Google taking a more youthful approach while still managing to keep an elegant feel to the devices for the more serious crowd. 

Buy the Google Pixel 6 at BestBuy

The Google Pixel 6 is available in "Stormy Black," "Sorta Seafoam," and "Kinda Coral." Source: Google Store
The Google Pixel 6 is available in "Stormy Black," "Sorta Seafoam," and "Kinda Coral." Source: Google Store
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Julian van der Merwe, 2022-02- 9 (Update: 2022-02- 9)