The Google Pixel 3 is among the latest installments in the Google phone lineup. A direct successor to the Google Pixel 2 and 2 XL, this phone was released in late 2018 and is now available through retailers across North America. Though not a straight Android phone, it nevertheless runs on an Android operating system and has a similar user interface. Nevertheless, it comes with superior camera and general graphics quality than the average Android, outshining many iPhone editions in this regard. Basically, this is a great phone choice for a wide variety of consumers who may be tired of the standard iPhone and Android options on the market. Before the decision to buy is made, however, it is important to take a look at the phone’s technology, customization options and available deals.
About the Google Pixel 3
- Technology
- Customization
- Deals
Technology
While visual appeal always plays a role, it’s really the technology that makes a phone worthwhile. The Google Pixel 3 runs on Android 9.0 Pie (the latest Android operating system that only a few other phone models currently run on as of early 2019) and includes octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 845. Interestingly, the phone also includes one 12.2 MP rear-facing camera as well a dual 8 MP front-facing camera. The phone comes with 4 GB of RAM, which granted, is not as high as a lot of competing phones but is nevertheless still more than sufficient for the average user. Like all of the latest smartphones, the Pixel 3 is compatible with LTE, NFC, Bluetooth 5, esim, GPS and wifi connectivity. It is also worth mentioning that this phone is the first to include the latest Gmail technology in its standard email desktop app, which comes with Smart Compose (the advanced auto-complete technology now seen when Gmail is being used in a browser).
Highlights
- Android 9.0 Pue and Qualcomm Snapdragon 845
- Two cameras, one rear and one front-facing
- Superior Gmail desktop app with Smart Compose
Customization
It is smaller than the average phone, allowing for easy handling and pocket or purse stowing. However, a larger screen “XL” version is also available (this one is classified as a “Phlablet” or phone-tablet rather than a smartphone). Storage options also vary and can be either 64 or 128 GB. It is also worth noting that the phone has a fingerprint sensor that can be turned on or off, and this can also be switched on to display notifications instead of just going straight to unlocking the phone. There are admittedly not too many other customization options available for the Pixel 3, but it does come in three different colors: “Just Black” (black all over), “Clearly White” (all white save for the mint green power button) and “Not Pink” (ironically all pink, except for an orange power button).
Highlights
- Sizes are available in standard or XL Phlablet form
- Fingerprint sensor that can be used for notifications and/or unlocking the phone
- Three available colors: Just Black, Clearly White and Not Pink
Deals
The Google Pixel 3 starts at $799 for the standard 64 GB version and at $899 for the 128 GB version. However, the good news is that, in addition to payment plans being offered by most retailers, there are various deals available. Verizon is currently offering up to $300 for new customers or existing customers that are adding a new phone line to their plan, and the Google store itself is currently offering $200 off the standard version for a limited time (or $24.96 a month for 24 months with 0 percent APR financing). Likewise, Newegg.com is offering the phone for slightly cheaper than its starting price at $788.99 for the standard version.
Highlights
- Google is selling it for $200 off and with 0 percent APR financing
- Verizon offers $300 off for new customers or new phone lines
- Newegg offers the new standard version for a slight discount
Conclusion
The Google Pixel 3 is a fantastic choice for phone users who are tired of the same old gimmicks seen time and time again in latest phones from competitors, and it perfectly bridges the gap between what an Android and an iPhone each offer. While it doesn’t have as much RAM as other phones, most users will find that they never needed that much to begin with and won’t even notice the difference. When it comes to graphics, this phone is a superior choice for those who like to play games through apps and desire advanced photo quality.