Just a week ago, Google launched the Pixel 11, and after a much-of-the-same Pixel 10a, we were looking forward to seeing what innovations and changes Google brought to the next flagship line of Pixel smartphones.
After having the Pixel 11 in hand for just seven days it is unfair to give it any grading or full review at this stage. Instead, at this early stage, I’m going to share my quick first impressions and thoughts to help you know what to expect if you are already planning to buy one.
The Google Pixel 11 is available from today in two SKUs, 256GB and 512GB and is priced at $1,499 and $1,699, respectively. This year, Google has added Hibiscus and Pistachio to the usual black (Obsidian) and white (Frost) options.
The basic specs of the Pixel 11 are:
As you can see, the specs are extremely similar to last year’s Pixel 10 but there are differences in the software at this stage, but I’ll likely go into depth with those in the upcoming review.
This kinds of leads me to a question I’ve asked before, is there really much more manufacturers can do when it comes to hardware? How much faster and how much more processing power do we really need?
What we currently have works great. The screens look great, the chipsets are fast enough and efficient enough and the build quality is premium on nearly all phones made these days. I am referring to the traditional phone form factor though, not foldables: that’s a whole different story, as shown by the early success of the new Samsung Galaxy Fold.
I love the modern Pixel design. Sure, the Pixel 11 does not look as good as the Pixel 11 Pro. The sides of the Pixel 11 are the same colour but matte as the rear of the device, unlike the shiny silver on the Pro version. The rears are different too with the Pixel 11 glossy and the Pro version a matte glass.
I’m not sure if that makes one more premium than the other but in all honesty, I really don’t see that much difference – and let’s face it, a vast majority of us will cover the phone with a case anyway!
Speaking of cases, the case Google sent me for the Pistachio Pixel 11, is a clear one. I like this idea because it shows off the phone’s beautiful design and colouring underneath. Why hide such a stunning colour?
The Pixel 11 sits extremely comfortably in the hand and feels super solid and premium. You really have to feel it in hand to judge.
Pixel software is second to none. Sure it doesn’t have some of the bells and whistles of some manufacturers such as OPPO but its software is buttery smooth and just next level. Dan and I (and many others) call it the Pixel Experience and it is very real and very noticeable.
This year there is even more AI inside and at this stage it is actually useful AI on a Pixel phone seems to be less about gimmicky things and more about making the phone useful and providing you with what you want when you want it.
As strange as it sounds, my favourite thing about all Pixels in the last few years has been the Assistant Voice to Text. This voice recognition typing is far and away superior to anything any other company offers, Apple, Samsung, OPPO – everyone. This year, its recognition gets even smarter and has taken a step to the next level and is even better – perfect for those on the road a lot, such as myself. More on this in the review.
At this stage, I haven’t used the camera much, so you’ll have to wait for the full review to see how well the Pixel 11 captures pictures. If it’s anywhere near as good as last year’s Pixel 10, and it should be given the same matching camera hardware, it will be outstanding.
I could show you a few videos of my golf swing but that won’t show you much other than me struggling to get off the tee!
After only 5 days of use, I love the Pixel 11 and actually believe it’s the phone for most people. Do you really need a Pro-level smartphone when this can do everything equally as well – aside from taking pictures?
That’s the only benefit I can see from forking out the premium price for the Pro versions of the Pixel 11. The Pixel 11 though, takes amazing pictures – how good do you need them to be?
At 0 cheaper than the cheapest Pixel 11 Pro, the Pixel 11 is a compelling proposition, even at this early stage. In today’s cost-of-living crisis, that matters. Keep an eye out for the in-depth review in the next week or two.
If you can’t wait for the full review, head in-store today. The Google Pixel 11 is available from today in two SKUs, 256GB and 512GB and is priced at
Scott is our resident open technology expert. If you can mod it, or want to use it your way, Scott has probably done it. From Laptops to phones, headphones and game consoles, he’s played with it and wants to see the next generation.
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