Pixel 4

The Google Pixel 4 has been a popular choice for smartphone enthusiasts in Qatar since its release. As of 2024, the Google Pixel 4 price in Qatar starts at around QAR 2,900 for the 64GB model, while the 128GB variant is priced at approximately QAR 3,300. These prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions.

 It’s worth noting that the Pixel 4 is no longer in production, so availability may be limited to existing stock or refurbished units.

Google Pixel 4 Specifications

Release Date and Availability

The Google Pixel 4 was officially released on October 24, 2019. While it’s no longer in production, it remains available through various retailers in Qatar. The phone launched with Android 10 and has since received updates to newer versions of Android, showcasing Google’s commitment to long-term software support.

Design and Build Quality

The Pixel 4 features a sleek and modern design with a square camera module on the back, setting it apart from its predecessors. The phone is available in three colors: Just Black, Clearly White, and Oh So Orange. With its aluminum frame and glass back, the Pixel 4 offers a premium feel in hand.

Display Technology

One of the standout features of the Pixel 4 is its 5.7-inch OLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate. This higher refresh rate provides smoother scrolling and a more responsive touch experience compared to standard 60Hz displays. The screen boasts vibrant colors and deep blacks, typical of OLED technology.

Camera Capabilities

Google has always prioritized camera performance in its Pixel lineup, and the Pixel 4 is no exception. The dual-camera system on the back consists of a 12.2MP main sensor and a 16MP telephoto lens. This setup allows for improved zoom capabilities and better low-light performance. The front-facing 8MP camera is capable of capturing high-quality selfies and supports secure face unlock.

Performance and Software

Powered by the Snapdragon 855 processor and 6GB of RAM, the Pixel 4 delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks and gaming. The clean, bloatware-free Android experience is a significant selling point for many users. Google’s commitment to regular software updates means the Pixel 4 continues to receive new features and security patches.

Battery Life and Charging

The 2800mAh battery in the Pixel 4 may seem small compared to some competitors, but Google‘s software optimization helps extend battery life. The phone supports 18W fast charging and Qi wireless charging, offering convenient charging options for users.

Special Features

The Pixel 4 introduced Motion Sense, a radar-based gesture control system that allows users to perform certain actions without touching the phone. While innovative, its practical applications are somewhat limited. The phone also features an improved Google Assistant with on-device processing for faster response times.

Comparison with Other Pixel Models

When comparing the Google Pixel 4 to other models in the Pixel lineup, several key differences emerge. 

The Pixel 3a, released earlier in 2019, was Google’s first mid-range offering in the Pixel series. While it shared the same primary camera sensor as the Pixel 4, it lacked the telephoto lens and had a less powerful processor. The Pixel 3a also featured a plastic body instead of the glass and metal construction of the Pixel 4.

The Pixel 4a, which came after the Pixel 4, continued the mid-range trend but with updated specifications. It offered a larger 5.8-inch display, improved battery life, and retained the excellent camera performance Pixel phones are known for. However, it lacked some premium features like wireless charging and water resistance found in the Pixel 4.

The Pixel 4 XL, released alongside the Pixel 4, offered a larger 6.3-inch display and a bigger 3700mAh battery, addressing some of the battery life concerns of the smaller Pixel 4. Otherwise, it shared most of the same specifications and features as its smaller sibling.

Compared to other smartphones available in Qatar in the same price range, the Pixel 4 stands out for its camera quality and clean Android experience. However, competitors like Samsung and Apple often offer more storage options, larger batteries, and in some cases, more versatile camera systems with ultra-wide lenses.

Camera Performance

The Pixel 4’s camera system is one of its strongest selling points. Google‘s computational photography techniques, combined with the dual-lens setup, produce exceptional photos in various lighting conditions. The Night Sight mode, in particular, allows for impressive low-light photography without the need for a flash.

Portrait mode benefits from the addition of the telephoto lens, offering improved depth perception and more natural-looking bokeh effects. The Super Res Zoom feature combines optical and digital zoom techniques to produce high-quality zoomed images up to 8x magnification.

For video enthusiasts, the Pixel 4 can record 4K video at 30 frames per second or 1080p at up to 120 frames per second for slow-motion footage. The optical and electronic image stabilization helps produce smooth, shake-free videos.

Software Experience and Updates

One of the key advantages of owning a Pixel device is the pure Android experience. The Pixel 4 launched with Android 10 and has since received updates to newer versions of Android. This ensures users have access to the latest features and security patches.

Google’s commitment to software support means the Pixel 4 is guaranteed to receive major Android updates for at least three years from its release date. This longevity can be a significant factor for users who plan to keep their phones for an extended period.

The Pixel 4 also benefits from exclusive Google features like Call Screen, which uses AI to filter out spam calls, and Live Caption, which provides real-time captions for any audio playing on the device.

Battery Life and Power Management

While the 2800mAh battery in the Pixel 4 may seem small compared to some competitors, Google has implemented several power-saving features to help extend battery life. The Adaptive Battery feature uses machine learning to understand your usage patterns and limit battery consumption for apps you rarely use.

The 90Hz display, while smooth and responsive, can impact battery life. To address this, Google implemented a dynamic refresh rate that automatically switches between 60Hz and 90Hz depending on the content being displayed.

For charging, the Pixel 4 supports 18W fast charging, which can provide several hours of use with just a few minutes of charging. The inclusion of Qi wireless charging adds convenience for users who prefer cord-free charging solutions.

Security Features

The Pixel 4 introduced a new face unlock system, replacing the fingerprint sensor found on previous Pixel models. This system uses a combination of infrared cameras, a flood illuminator, and a dot projector to create a 3D map of the user’s face. While generally fast and secure, it initially lacked an “eyes open” requirement, which was later added through a software update.

The Titan M security chip, first introduced in the Pixel 3, is also present in the Pixel 4. This dedicated security module helps protect sensitive data and ensures the integrity of the operating system.

Connectivity and 5G

The Pixel 4 supports 4G LTE networks but does not offer 5G connectivity. For users in Qatar, this may not be a significant drawback as 5G networks are still in the early stages of deployment. The phone includes Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) support, Bluetooth 5.0, and NFC for contactless payments.

Storage Options

Google offers the Pixel 4 in two storage configurations: 64GB and 128GB. It’s important to note that there is no option for expandable storage via microSD card. For users who take many photos or store large amounts of data on their phones, the 128GB option may be more suitable.

Audio Capabilities

The Pixel 4 features stereo speakers that provide clear and loud audio for media consumption. However, like many modern smartphones, it does not include a 3.5mm headphone jack. Users will need to rely on USB-C or Bluetooth headphones for personal audio.

Motion Sense and Gesture Controls

One of the unique features of the Pixel 4 is Motion Sense, powered by Google’s Soli radar chip. This technology allows users to perform certain actions, such as skipping songs or silencing alarms, by waving their hand above the phone. While innovative, the practical applications of Motion Sense are somewhat limited, and its usefulness may vary depending on individual user preferences.

Display Quality and Brightness

The 5.7-inch OLED display on the Pixel 4 offers excellent color accuracy and contrast. The 90Hz refresh rate provides a noticeably smoother experience when scrolling through apps or playing compatible games. However, some users have reported that the maximum brightness could be higher, which may affect outdoor visibility in bright sunlight.

Build Quality and Durability

With its glass back and aluminum frame, the Pixel 4 feels premium in hand. The phone is IP68 rated for water and dust resistance, providing peace of mind for accidental spills or brief submersion. However, like most glass-backed phones, it may be prone to cracks if dropped, so using a case is recommended.

Value for Money in the Qatari Market

When considering the Google Pixel 4 price in Qatar, it‘s important to weigh the phone’s features against its cost. While it may not be the latest model, the Pixel 4 still offers a compelling package for users who prioritize camera quality and a clean Android experience. The regular software updates from Google help maintain the phone’s relevance even years after its initial release.

However, potential buyers should also consider newer models or competitors that may offer more recent hardware or additional features at similar price points. It’s always worth comparing the Pixel 4 to current mid-range and flagship offerings to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.