Next-Generation Google Pixels Ditch the Headphone Jack, Offer Impressive Camera

It’s smartphone upgrade season—and Google just dropped two brand-new, impressive phones. If you didn’t jump on the iPhone 8/X bandwagon and you’ve been patiently waiting for the new Pixel 2 or Pixel 2 XL, you won’t be disappointed. (Unless you’re a headphone jack diehard, in which case you’re probably distraught.) Here are some of the noteworthy takeaways from their October 4th announcement.

For starters, what’s the deal with the headphone jack and speakers? These two features have been linked as a major topic of speculation in recent weeks, as some leaks thought the Pixel 2 would forego dual-stereo speakers in favor of keeping the headphone jack, and some leaks revealed the opposite. But, during the event, Google has now confirmed the phone will have dual-stereo speakers and no headphone jack.

Getting rid of the headphone jack will be a disappointment to many, especially those who were skeptical of Apple’s decision to ditch the headphone jack last year. But, Google is jumping on the no-jack bandwagon—after mocking Apple’s decision last year – hints that Apple’s gamble may be paying off already. As fewer and fewer phones offer a headphone jack, headphone and accessory makers continue to keep up with the demand for wireless options.

Of course, Google announced their own wireless headphones, called Pixel Buds. While the buds are in many ways similar to other wireless headphones on the market, there’s one pretty cool, notable feature to look out for. Google says that users will be able to activate Google Translate through the Pixel to get real-time translations of conversations. If the sometimes-wonky translations that Google Translate provides are any indication, this feature might be a bit buggy. Nevertheless, it’s a cool, futuristic idea that sets these buds apart from competitors.

The best feature of the new Pixels is, by far, the improved camera. Both phones have a 12.2-megapixel rear camera with improved aperture and optical image stabilization, so you can take clearer, better photos. And though neither of the phones have dual cameras, both the front and rear facing cameras use something Google calls a “dual-pixel sensor.” This enables faster autofocus and allows you to take photos in portrait mode, even without the second camera.

Where are you going to store all of your amazing new photos? The two new Pixels will come in two size options: 64GB or 128GB. With the larger option at just half the size of the new iPhone 8’s potential capacity (256GB), Google isn’t offering a ton of storage options. Google is offering unlimited Google Cloud storage for all Pixel 2 and 2 XL customers, but this offer comes with a caveat: By 2021, you’ll only be able to upload photos in “high-quality,” not original quality, resolution.

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