Google Pixel 6 and 6 Pro Review

The Google Pixel 6 series comprises a duo of handsets: the Google Pixel 6 and the slightly more advanced Google Pixel 6 Pro.

As you’d expect, Google puts display and camera tech front and centre on these two devices, but let’s unpack exactly what each smartphone has to offer in more detail below.

Google Pixel 6

At a glance: 6.4-inch FHD+ Smooth Display, 50MP+12MP rear camera, 8MP front camera, 4,614 mAh battery, 158.6 x 74.8 x 8.9 mm, 207g.

The Google Pixel 6 is designed to be both stylish and practical, with a sleek frame made from tactile alloy, Corning Gorilla Glass Victus on the front and Gorilla Glass 6 on the back. It’s durable enough to withstand the inevitable everyday scratches and the occasional drop, but well-protected from the elements too, with an IP68 dust and water resistance rating.

As for the display, this device features a stunning, 6.4-inch FHD+ Smooth Display, with optional Always-On technology. So, you’ll have access to basic information like date, time, weather and limited notifications even when your phone is asleep. With a 90Hz refresh rate and 83.4% screen-to-body ratio, it guarantees an immersive viewing experience, whether you’re scrolling through social media or catching up on the latest Netflix boxset.

On the rear of the device, you’ll find a dual camera system, made up of one 50MP wide lens, and one 12MP ultra-wide lens with a 114-degree field of view, to make capturing those beautiful landscape sunset shots even easier. There’s plenty of camera software to experiment with on the Google Pixel 6, too. Try out Google’s signature Portrait setting, use new Magic Eraser to eliminate pesky background distractions, or activate Motion Mode to bring a bit of dynamic action to your images, without blurring your subject.

Google is also debuting its latest custom-built chipset – as both handsets are powered by the Google Tensor chip. This processor promises up to 80% faster performance, so you can make the most of multitasking on 5G, and an additional layer of protection for maximum smartphone security. Meanwhile, the 4,614 mAh battery provides up to 24 hours of power, or 48 hours on Extreme Battery Saver Mode.

Google Pixel 6 Pro

At a glance: 6.7-inch QHD+ LTPO Smooth Display, 50MP + 12MP + 48MP rear camera, 11.1MP front camera, 5,003 mAh battery, 163.9 x 75.9 x 8.9 mm, 210g.

Side by side, the Pixel 6 Pro and the Pixel 6 look almost identical, but the former is slightly bigger, with a smoother polished alloy frame and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus on the front and back. There’s a 6.7-inch QHD+ LTPO display, which, paired with the option to activate a higher 120Hz refresh rate, makes watching films on the Pixel 6 Pro a truly cinematic experience, and mobile gameplay more vivid and exciting than ever.

The camera on the Pixel 6 Pro is composed of three separate lenses. You’ll find the same 50MP wide lens and 48MP ultra wide lens as the Pixel 6, but this device also features a 48MP telephoto lens, with up to 4x optical zoom for brilliantly detailed closeups. The new main sensor is also larger, letting in up to 150% more light and revolutionising the capabilities of Night Sight, which allows you to take crystal clear atmospheric photos at dusk, or by candlelight. The Pixel 6 Pro even makes selfies easier, as the 11MP front camera has a 94-degree field of view, so it’s never been easier to assemble your gang for the perfect group shot.

In terms of power, the Google Tensor chip can handle even the most advanced smartphone demands, like using AI-powered apps, graphics-intensive games, or high-spec video editing. Not to mention, both handsets arrive with Android 12 installed, which is the very latest operating system to hit the market, released in Autumn 2021. From new design elements to more flexible widgets, Android 12 has had plenty of exciting updates – like an improved auto-rotate setting, and new AppSearch which allows you to look up anything inside a specific app.

With so many premium features to explore, it’s a good thing there’s a 5,003 mAh battery on board to keep your device running right through the day. Just like the Pixel 6, the Pixel 6 Pro can power up via Fast Charging with the cable included in the box, or Wireless Fast Charging with a Qi-certified Google Pixel Stand (sold separately). Thanks to Battery Share, you can even use your Pixel 6 Pro to charge other wireless devices, so there’s no need to worry if you forgot to power up your Pixel Buds before a long journey.

If you’re interested in the Pixel 6 series, or other great mobile deals, be sure to take a look at Mobiles.co.uk.