Pixel 1 (2016)

The Google Pixel, released on October 20, 2016, marked Google’s entry into the smartphone market with its own branded device. In Qatar, the Google Pixel was initially priced at around QAR 2,800 for the 32GB model and QAR 3,200 for the 128GB model. However, the price has significantly dropped due to newer models being released. Currently, you can find the Google Pixel 1 in Qatar for approximately QAR 800 to QAR 1,200, depending on the condition and storage capacity.

Specifications

Design and Build Quality

The Google Pixel Standard 2016 features a sleek and minimalist design that was quite popular during its release. The phone’s body is primarily made of aluminum, with a distinctive glass panel on the upper third of the back. This design element not only adds a premium feel but also improves wireless signal reception.

The device is available in three colors: Very Silver, Quite Black, and Really Blue (limited edition). The phone’s compact size makes it comfortable to hold and use with one hand, which is a significant advantage for users who prefer smaller devices.

Display

The Google Pixel boasts a 5.0-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 441 ppi. This Full HD display offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast, typical of AMOLED technology. The screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 4, providing decent resistance against scratches and minor drops.

Performance and Software

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 processor and 4GB of RAM, the Google Pixel delivers smooth performance for most tasks. While it may not match the speed of newer flagship devices, it still handles everyday applications and light gaming with ease.

One of the standout features of the Pixel series is its pure Android experience. The device launched with Android 7.1 Nougat and received updates up to Android 10, providing users with the latest features and security patches for several years after its release.

Camera

The Google Pixel made waves with its exceptional camera performance. It features a 12.3MP rear camera with an f/2.0 aperture and 1.55µm pixel size. Despite having only a single lens, the Pixel’s camera consistently produced high-quality photos, especially in low-light conditions, thanks to Google’s advanced image processing algorithms.

The front-facing 8MP camera with an f/2.4 aperture is capable of taking decent selfies and is suitable for video calls.

Battery Life

Equipped with a 2770mAh battery, the Google Pixel offers adequate battery life for most users. With moderate usage, the phone can last through a full day on a single charge. The device also supports 18W fast charging, allowing you to quickly top up the battery when needed.

Connectivity and Additional Features

The Google Pixel supports 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 4.2, NFC, and GPS. It also features a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor for quick and secure unlocking.

One unique feature of the Pixel series is unlimited full-quality photo and video backup to Google Photos, which was a significant advantage for photography enthusiasts.

Comparison with Other Models

When comparing the Google Pixel to its larger sibling, the Pixel XL, the main differences lie in the display size and battery capacity. The Pixel XL features a 5.5-inch Quad HD display and a larger 3450mAh battery, making it a better choice for users who prefer larger screens and longer battery life.

Compared to the Pixel 2, which was released a year later, the original Pixel lacks water resistance (IP67 on the Pixel 2) and has slightly older hardware. However, the Pixel 2 removed the headphone jack, which may be a drawback for some users.

In the same price range as the current market value of the Standard Google Pixel, you can find newer mid-range devices from brands like Samsung, Xiaomi, and Huawei. These newer phones often offer better performance, improved cameras, and longer software support. However, the Pixel still holds its own in terms of camera quality and the pure Android experience.

Is the Standard Google Pixel Still Worth Buying?

While the Google Pixel 1 is no longer a cutting-edge device, it can still be a viable option for certain users in Qatar. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros:

1. Excellent camera performance, especially in low light
2. Pure Android experience with a clean interface
3. Compact size, ideal for one-handed use
4. Affordable price point in the used market
5. Unlimited full-quality photo and video backup to Google Photos

Cons:

1. Older hardware may struggle with newer, demanding applications
2. No longer receiving official software updates
3. Limited storage options with no expandable storage
4. Battery life may have degraded in used devices
5. Lacks modern features like water resistance and wireless charging

Who Should Consider Buying the Google Pixel 2016?

The Google Pixel 2016 could be a good choice for:

1. Budget-conscious users who prioritize camera quality
2. Those who prefer a pure Android experience
3. Users looking for a compact smartphone
4. Photography enthusiasts who can benefit from unlimited full-quality photo backup
5. People who need a reliable secondary phone

Tips for Buying a Used Google Pixel in Qatar

If you’re considering purchasing a used Google Pixel in Qatar, keep these tips in mind:

1. Check the phone’s overall condition, including the screen and body for any damage
2. Verify the battery health, as it may have degraded over time
3. Ensure all features and buttons are working correctly
4. Check if the phone has been factory reset and is not linked to any accounts
5. Compare prices from multiple sellers to get the best deal
6. Consider purchasing from reputable second-hand electronics stores that offer warranties

Alternatives to Consider

If you’re looking for alternatives to the Google Pixel in a similar price range in Qatar, consider these options:

1. Xiaomi Redmi Note series: Offers good performance and features at a budget-friendly price
2. Samsung Galaxy A series: Provides a balance of features and Samsung’s reliable brand name
3. Huawei P Smart series: Offers decent cameras and performance in the mid-range segment
4. Nokia’s mid-range offerings: Provides a clean Android experience with good build quality