Pixel 2 XL

The Google Pixel 2 XL, a flagship smartphone from Google, is currently priced at around QAR 3,100 for the base 64GB model in Qatar. This price point positions it as a premium device in the Qatari market, offering high-end features and performance. For those seeking more storage, the 128GB version is available for approximately QAR 3,500.

These prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions or discounts.

Specifications

Design and Display

The Google Pixel 2 XL boasts a sleek and modern design that stands out in the crowded smartphone market. Its 6.0-inch P-OLED display dominates the front of the device, offering a stunning visual experience with vibrant colors and deep blacks. The QHD+ resolution of 2880 x 1440 pixels ensures crisp and clear images, making it perfect for watching videos, browsing photos, or playing games.

The phone’s body is crafted from a combination of aluminum and glass, giving it a premium feel. The back features a two-tone design with a glass panel at the top housing the camera and a fingerprint sensor placed in an easily reachable position. The Pixel 2 XL comes in two color options: Just Black and Black & White, allowing users to choose a style that suits their preference.

Camera Capabilities

One of the standout features of the Google Pixel 2 XL is its exceptional camera system. The rear camera boasts a 12.2-megapixel sensor with an f/1.8 aperture, optical image stabilization (OIS), and dual-pixel autofocus. This combination allows for stunning photos in various lighting conditions, from bright sunlight to low-light environments.

The camera’s software is where the Pixel 2 XL truly shines. Google’s advanced image processing algorithms, including HDR+ and Portrait Mode, produce photos with excellent dynamic range, accurate colors, and beautiful bokeh effects. The front-facing 8-megapixel camera with an f/2.4 aperture is equally impressive, capturing high-quality selfies and enabling video calls with clarity.

Performance and Software

Under the hood, the Google Pixel 2 XL is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor, paired with 4GB of RAM. This combination ensures smooth performance for everyday tasks, multitasking, and even demanding applications. The phone comes with either 64GB or 128GB of internal storage, though it’s worth noting that there’s no option for expandable storage via microSD card.

Running on Android 8.0 Oreo out of the box (upgradable to later versions), the Pixel 2 XL offers a pure Android experience with no bloatware. This clean interface, combined with Google’s optimization, results in a fast and responsive user experience. The phone also features the Google Assistant, which can be activated by squeezing the sides of the device, providing quick access to voice commands and information.

Battery Life and Additional Features

The Pixel 2 XL is equipped with a 3520 mAh battery, which provides all-day battery life for most users. The phone supports fast charging, allowing you to quickly top up the battery when needed. While it doesn’t offer wireless charging, the efficient battery management and fast charging capabilities make up for this omission.

Other notable features include IP67 water and dust resistance, front-facing stereo speakers for immersive audio, and the Always-On Display, which shows notifications and time without waking the entire screen. The phone also includes the Active Edge feature, allowing users to squeeze the device to trigger certain actions or launch the Google Assistant.

Comparison with Other Models

When comparing the Google Pixel 2 XL to its smaller sibling, the Pixel 2, the main differences lie in the display size and battery capacity. The Pixel 2 XL offers a larger 6.0-inch screen compared to the Pixel 2’s 5.0-inch display, making it more suitable for those who prefer a bigger screen for media consumption and productivity. The larger body of the XL model also accommodates a bigger battery, providing potentially longer usage times.

Moving up to the Pixel 3 XL, you’ll find improvements in processing power with the upgraded Snapdragon 845 chip, a slightly larger 6.3-inch display, and enhanced camera features. However, the Pixel 2 XL still holds its own in terms of camera quality and overall performance, making it a viable option for those who don’t need the absolute latest features.

Compared to other smartphones in the same price range available in Qatar, such as certain models of the Samsung Galaxy S series or the iPhone 8 Plus, the Pixel 2 XL offers a pure Android experience, exceptional camera quality, and timely software updates directly from Google.

While it may lack some features like wireless charging or a dual-camera setup found in some competitors, its strengths in software optimization and camera performance make it a compelling choice for many users.

Release Date and Availability

The Google Pixel 2 XL was officially released on October 19, 2017. In Qatar, the phone became available shortly after its global launch, with major retailers and telecom providers offering the device.

Despite being a few years old, the Pixel 2 XL remains a popular choice for Android enthusiasts and those looking for a high-quality smartphone experience.

Target Audience

The Google Pixel 2 XL is ideal for users who prioritize camera quality, clean software experience, and timely updates.

It’s particularly appealing to photography enthusiasts who want a powerful camera in their pocket without the need for extensive editing or multiple lenses. The phone’s pure Android experience also makes it a great choice for those who prefer a bloatware-free interface and quick access to the latest Android features and security updates.

Long-term Value

While the Pixel 2 XL is no longer the latest model in Google’s smartphone lineup, it continues to offer excellent value for its price in Qatar.

Google’s commitment to providing software updates for several years after a device’s release means that Pixel 2 XL users can still enjoy new features and security patches, extending the phone’s usability and relevance.

Camera Deep Dive

The camera system on the Pixel 2 XL deserves a closer look, as it’s one of the device’s strongest selling points.

Despite having a single lens, the 12.2-megapixel rear camera produces results that rival and often surpass dual and triple camera setups from other manufacturers. This is largely due to Google’s advanced software processing.

The camera excels in various scenarios:

• Low Light Performance: The large 1.4μm pixel size and f/1.8 aperture allow the camera to capture more light, resulting in clear and bright images even in dimly lit environments.
• HDR+: This feature takes multiple shots at different exposures and combines them, producing images with excellent dynamic range and detail in both highlights and shadows.
• Portrait Mode: Using machine learning algorithms, the Pixel 2 XL can create a bokeh effect (blurred background) typically associated with DSLR cameras, all with a single lens.
• Motion Photos: Similar to Apple’s Live Photos, this feature captures a short video clip before and after you take a photo, bringing your memories to life.

Software and User Experience

The Pixel 2 XL shines in its software implementation. Running on pure Android, the phone offers a clean, intuitive interface free from unnecessary bloatware. This not only contributes to smoother performance but also ensures that users get the latest Android features and security updates as soon as they’re available.

Some standout software features include:

• Google Lens: This AI-powered tool can identify objects, landmarks, and text in photos, providing additional information or translation.
• Now Playing: A feature that automatically identifies music playing in your environment and displays the song title and artist on the lock screen.
• Unlimited Google Photos Storage: Pixel 2 XL users get unlimited free storage for photos and videos at original quality, a significant benefit for those who take lots of photos.

Battery Life and Charging

The 3520 mAh battery in the Pixel 2 XL is designed to last through a full day of moderate to heavy use. Google’s software optimization plays a crucial role in managing power consumption efficiently. The device supports fast charging, which can provide up to 7 hours of use from just 15 minutes of charging.

While the lack of wireless charging might be a drawback for some users, the fast wired charging capability often makes up for this omission in day-to-day use.

Audio Capabilities

The Pixel 2 XL features front-facing stereo speakers, providing a superior audio experience compared to many smartphones with bottom-firing speakers. This makes the device excellent for watching videos, playing games, or listening to music without headphones.

It’s worth noting that the Pixel 2 XL does not include a 3.5mm headphone jack. Instead, it relies on USB-C for audio output or wireless Bluetooth connections. Google includes a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter in the box for those who prefer to use traditional wired headphones.

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Security Features

Security is a priority on the Pixel 2 XL. The device includes a fingerprint sensor on the back for quick and secure unlocking. Additionally, being a Google device, it receives monthly security updates directly from Google, ensuring that the phone remains protected against the latest vulnerabilities.

The Pixel 2 XL also features the Titan M security chip, which provides an extra layer of hardware-based security for sensitive operations like secure boot, on-device encryption, and protection for Google Pay transactions.

Connectivity and Network

In Qatar, the Pixel 2 XL supports all major 4G LTE bands, ensuring excellent connectivity across different carriers. The phone also includes NFC for contactless payments, Bluetooth 5.0 for improved wireless audio quality and range, and Wi-Fi 802.11ac for fast wireless internet connections.

Accessories Ecosystem

While not as extensive as some other flagship ecosystems, the Pixel 2 XL has a range of compatible accessories available in Qatar. These include official Google cases, screen protectors, and the Pixel Buds for a seamless wireless audio experience. Third-party manufacturers also offer a variety of cases, chargers, and other accessories to enhance the Pixel 2 XL experience.

Value for Money in Qatar

Considering its price point in Qatar, the Google Pixel 2 XL offers excellent value for money. While it may not have some of the latest features found in newer flagships, its combination of a stellar camera, clean software experience, and consistent performance make it a compelling option for many users.

The device’s longevity, thanks to Google’s software support, means that buyers can expect their Pixel 2 XL to remain relevant and secure for years after purchase. This long-term value proposition is particularly appealing for those who prefer to keep their devices for extended periods.