The 5.5-inch Google Pixel XL with 32GB is priced at $1269 and $1419 for the 128GB version.
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Unlocked versions of the two phones are available at the Google Store and multiple third-party retailers, including Best Buy.
So if you choose to purchase your Pixel or Pixel XL from Verizon, expect a delay in the latest software updates since the carrier will be in charge of them and not Google. This is also one of the primary benefits of the purchasing a Google Pixel/Nexus handset rather than going in for a carrier model. This is one strong reason why Google dropped its Nexus branding in favor of Google Pixel. It makes the Pixel smartphone more alluring to photo devotees, who are looking for a cause to upgrade their existing Android device.
Google Pixel smartphone is available in three very distinct colors. It didn’t reveal for how long the phone would be supported in terms of software and the security updates, an issue that plagued Android phones.
As tech-obsessed as people like you and I are, we know what Google is trying to get across by saying these phones are “only on Verizon”, but the average consumer certainly doesn’t. Priced at R57,000 onwards, Pixel phones are not mid-range like Nexus, and there’s a reason for that.
Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) has recently come up with Pixel and Pixel XL Android phones but its selling strategy ensures that security factor remains in its hand. Verizon only has control over system updates, such as a potential future update to Android 8.0 when it’s announced and released. In the past, Google has collaborated with other manufacturers to produce the Nexus phones, which used to be the example of how a device should run on an Android OS.
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The price of the Pixel is the essentially same whether you get it from Verizon or directly from Google. That even includes an exclusive deal with Verizon in the US.
