Google Pixel XL In 2024! (Still Worth It?) (Review) | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR
The Google Pixel XL is outdated and not recommended for purchase in 2024.
Key Insights
- π While the Google Pixel XL initiated Google's entry into the smartphone market, its technology has since become outdated, making it a poor investment in 2024.
- π± The phone's design included significant bezels and lack of features found in modern smartphones, leading to diminished usability and aesthetic appeal.
- π₯ The camera system was a major selling point and still captures decent images, but it canβt compete with modern multi-lens setups and AI-driven enhancements.
- π Software support for the Pixel XL has ceased, leaving it vulnerable to security risks and limitations in functionality.
- π Although the Snapdragon 821 chip was competitive in its era, it now struggles with the latest apps and high-performance demands.
- π§ The presence of features like a headphone jack and aluminum-glass dual construction were notable advantages when the phone launched.
- π€ Users seeking an affordable smartphone experience should consider buying more current options that still receive software updates, providing a better long-term value.
Transcript
Read and summarize the transcript of this video on Glasp Reader (beta).
Questions & Answers
Q: Why is the Google Pixel XL considered outdated in 2024?
The Google Pixel XL, while innovative at its release in 2016, is now outdated in both hardware and software. With advancements in smartphone technology, devices released in more recent years offer significantly better performance, camera quality, and features such as wireless charging and improved processing power, making the Pixel XL less appealing for potential buyers today.
Q: What were some of the standout features of the Pixel XL when it was first launched?
The Pixel XL boasted a 5.5-inch AMOLED display, a solid camera for its time with a 12.3-megapixel rear sensor, and a premium feel due to its aluminum and glass design. It also included a USB Type-C port and a headphone jack, which were considered desirable features back in 2016, enhancing its overall appeal compared to contemporaries.
Q: How does the camera performance of the Pixel XL hold up years later?
When first released, the Pixel XL's camera was praised for its quality and post-processing capabilities, providing stunning images for its time. Today, while it still performs adequately for basic photography, it falls short compared to the multi-camera setups and advanced processing in newer smartphones, which deliver superior results in varying conditions.
Q: Can users expect software updates on the Pixel XL?
The Pixel XL originally offered an excellent stock Android experience with timely software updates, but as of 2024, it is now several versions behind. Although it received support for a few generations post-launch, its outdated software compromises features, security, and user experience, leading to the recommendation to invest in a more current device.
Q: What are the main performance issues users may encounter with the Pixel XL?
Users may experience slow loading times and general sluggishness due to the aging Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 processor paired with 4GB of RAM. While these specifications were competitive in 2016, they no longer meet the demands of modern apps and multitasking, which could frustrate users accustomed to the speed of newer smartphones.
Q: What alternatives are recommended instead of the Pixel XL?
Instead of the Pixel XL, potential buyers are encouraged to consider newer models like the Google Pixel 5, 6, or 7, and other flagship devices such as the Samsung Galaxy S21 or later models, which provide advanced features, improved performance, and longer software support, ensuring a better overall experience.
Summary & Key Takeaways
-
The Google Pixel XL, released in 2016, is considered outdated in 2024 due to significant advancements in hardware and software in newer smartphones.
-
Key features of the Pixel XL included a 5.5-inch AMOLED display, a powerful camera for its time, a USB Type-C port, and a headphone jack, but it lacks modern conveniences like wireless charging and multiple camera setups.
-
While it had notable aspects like stock Android and timely updates, overall performance and software support are insufficient for contemporary usage, leading to the recommendation to consider newer devices instead.