The Pixel 11 series is shaping up to be more significant than anticipated, bringing both positive and negative aspects.
With annual ‘upgrades’ being minimal due to the persistent global RAM shortage, including impacts from Google on the Pixel 10a, the Pixel 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro XL, and 11 Pro Fold are poised to break this pattern.
A major leak on Telegram, shared by well-known tipster Mystic Leaks, highlights three main internal enhancements: Google’s upcoming Tensor G6 chipset, a new modem for faster internet, and a revamped Tensor Processing Unit (TPU) for AI tasks.
However, the most exciting prospect is the introduction of new camera sensors, even though details remain undisclosed. Pixel flagships have lagged in phone photography, depending on AI features like Best Take and Add Me instead of lens improvements for years.
Yet, there’s a significant rumored drawback—the elimination of a highly valued feature unmatched by other phone manufacturers. Unfortunately, Google is likely to replace it with another gimmick. Sigh.
It’s heating up – but by how much?
A few decades ago, a built-in thermometer on a phone would have seemed like science fiction. Now, it might soon become obsolete.
Introduced in 2023 with the Pixel 8 Pro, the Thermometer app has been a staple for Pixel Pro phones. It uses an infrared sensor to measure the temperature of various everyday items, including foods, liquids, and surfaces, no matter where you are.
Foundry
Additionally, if you’re in a supported country like the UK or the US, it can measure your body temperature.
The process is user-friendly, guided by an automated voice instructing you to place the sensor on your forehead and rotate it to your temple.
This isn’t just a novelty; the body temperature feature is FDA-approved in the US, confirming its effectiveness compared to other infrared thermometers, like those used during Covid.
…the removal of the Thermometer app makes zero sense
Compared to the mouth-based thermometer I use when unwell, the Pixel 10 Pro XL’s results varied due to its sensitivity to the forehead distance.
Yet, when positioned within the recommended 5cm range, it consistently measured within 0.2°C of accuracy. Impressive.
Foundry
I wouldn’t rely solely on a phone for body temperature readings, but it can be a useful secondary check when on the go or for unusual results. It’s also less invasive for monitoring young children, with modes for different age ranges up to three years.
While I can’t confirm the accuracy of object and surface measurements, my tests aligned with expected results. It has various applications, from checking window drafts to ensuring pans are hot enough or drinks aren’t too hot.
Considering its broad potential and minimal space usage on the phone, removing the Thermometer app seems illogical.
Lights, camera, and too much action
The Mystic Leaks post also suggests the Pixel 11 Pro models will feature a light show.
As someone who’s trying to use my phone more mindfully, a load of distracting lights on the back of my phone is my worst nightmare
Specifically, the ‘Pixel Glow’ RGB LEDs are anticipated to encircle the camera bar, though they are expected to be smaller than the ‘Glyph’ lights seen on Nothing smartphones.
Having tested several of those phones, I find back-of-phone LEDs to be gimmicky. Though seemingly fun and useful, they quickly become annoying.
Luke Baker
For someone aiming for mindful phone use, distracting lights are a nightmare. I’d prefer an annoying chime over this.
If I review a Pixel 11 Pro model, I’ll test these lights but likely disable them quickly.
Global influences on smartphones are beyond Google’s control, but adding gimmicky features is not the answer.
Google Gemini / Chris Martin
Hopefully, the Pixel 11 Pro models and the Pixel 11 series overall will excel in other important areas to be worthwhile purchases. However, these rumors raise some doubts.
