Google Pixel 3 XL

The Google Pixel 3 XL is the search engine's third flagship and the most radical change ever. The screen is bigger than ever, has a notch, the camera has new tricks thanks to artificial intelligence and we get a selfie camera with wider angle view thanks to the dual sensor. We're going to find out if that's all we need here.

Big screen, big notch

Google has put its largest screen ever in a Pixel phone; no less than 6.3 inches and a resolution of Quad HD+. There's a pretty deep notch at the top, though. The height of the notch corresponds to the status bar in which the time and notifications are shown. So you have quite a bit less than 6.3 inches left for other content. Also on the front we find a double speaker for stereo sound that has become 40% louder this year. Google has had the sound tuned by a Grammy Award-winning producer so that high and low tones come into their own. Other new features include wireless charging and a glossy, matte finish on the glass case.

Camera with Nite Sight and Top Shot

The Google Pixels are known for their good cameras and fortunately this Pixel 3 XL does not disappoint. The camera specifications do match those of last year, so the same 12.2 megapixel camera sensor and f1.8 lens, but thanks to artificial intelligence, Google is able to bring the necessary new functions. The most spectacular is nite photography. With a mobile phone, this always remains difficult, but with machine learning, Google is able to increase the brightness in such a way that it looks as if a nite shot has been taken during the day. And that without flash. This Nite Sight feature is also available on older Pixel phones, so there's no need to buy a Pixel 3 XL. Exclusive is the Top Shot function that shoots photos before you even press the shutter button. If you miss the perfect moment, simply scroll back in time for the best photo. All your shot photos and 4K video are stored for free in the cloud in the highest quality.

Main Google Pixel 3 XL specifications

• 6.3 inch large Quad HD+ Flexible OLED screen including Gorilla Glass 5
• 12.2 megapixel AI camera with Top Shot and Nite Sight
• Waterproof housing with IPX8 rating and double finishing
• Octacore Snapdragon 845 processor at up to 2,5 GHz + 4GB RAM
• Double 8 megapixel selfie camera for group movies
• Choice between 64 or 128GB of memory storage
• 4G support for gigabit internet on the go

High price

Because Google can make the hardware and software itself, everything fits together well. So expect a smooth-running phone without any hiccups. The Pixel 3 XL is of course helped by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 845 processor. This is the most powerful chip at the time of release and we therefore find it in all flagships. The processing power it delivers comes in handy with all AI functions. For example, Google Assistant gets some new features including Call Screen that can take phone calls for you. Handy when you get a call from a call centre during dinner. A big disadvantage is the hefty price of the device. Whether that is justifiable is quite personal. The fact is that for a high-end phone with pure Android, you can now also go to Android One. Whether you can find such a good camera is virtually impossible. This Pixel 3 XL will probably remain king for years to come.