Google’s introduction of “Pixel” signaled the company’s entry into an industry dominated by Apple and Samsung. And, given that Google is already the creator of the Android mobile operating system, what distinguishes the Pixel from other smartphones already on the market?

Google unveiled the Pixel on October 4, 2016, claiming it would provide the best experience possible “by bringing hardware and software design together under one roof.”

Google’s entry into the smartphone industry isn’t its first: the company’s Android operating system is available on smartphones from various manufacturers, including Samsung, HTC, and Motorola. Previous Google smartphone releases were part of the Nexus program, which was developed in collaboration with other smartphone manufacturers. But Pixel is entirely Google’s creation — the company’s first smartphone.

The new Google Pixel is more than just another Android smartphone. It is the best Android phone available. That’s because the Pixel has several advantages that no other phone has.

Here are Pixel’s most notable distinguishing features: 

1. It Has Google Assistant.

Google Assistant, Google’s new digital assistant, is simply incredible. You can review everything it can do but know that it outperforms Siri and its competitors.

For the time being, the Pixel phone is the only Android phone that includes Google Assistant.

2. Android updates are delivered as soon as they are ready.

Android phones rarely get timely updates. This is because manufacturers such as Samsung must take the time to customize each new version of Android with their software. It’s common to wait a year or more for a new version of Android on most Android phones.

The Pixel is distinct. It is the only Android phone guaranteed to receive new Google updates as soon as they become available. That’s enormous.

3. There is built-in customer service. 

Pixel has an app that allows you to chat with a customer support agent 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It even allows you to share your screen with them so they can guide you and troubleshoot your issues.

4. There is a tool that makes switching from the iPhone simple.

Are you switching from iPhone to Android? The Pixel makes it simple.

The Pixel comes with an adapter that allows you to connect your old iPhone directly to the Pixel. A new transfer tool allows you to transfer your contacts, music, photos, and other data from your iPhone to the Pixel.

5. For your high-resolution photos, you get unlimited online storage.

The Pixel has free unlimited online storage in Google Photos for all your photos and videos. Every photo or video you take will be automatically saved to Google Photos, so you’ll never lose another.

6. Wireless carriers provide no additional software.

Most Android phones in the United States include additional apps from wireless carriers and the phone’s manufacturer. Almost all those apps are useless and do nothing but clog up your phone with junk. The Pixel comes with no bloatware, only the Google apps you need.

7. You are not required to deal with unnecessary software modifications from the phone manufacturer.

Most Android phone manufacturers alter the operating system, so it looks nothing like the version shipped by Google. This can lead to issues ranging from clumsy interfaces to slow software updates.

Google Pixel runs the most recent version of Android, which is the best way to get to know the platform. And it’s only available on Pixel and a few Nexus phones.

Google Pixel Specs 

The Pixel is reminiscent of Apple’s iPhone in its curved edges, sleek design, and two size options. The 5-inch Pixel has a 1080p screen, 4GB of RAM, and either 32GB or 128GB of storage. iPhone 7 has similar specs: a 1334 x 750 screen resolution, 2GB of RAM, and storage options of 32GB, 128GB, or 256GB.

Google also claims the Pixel has the “best smartphone camera ever.” DxOMark, which measures camera image quality through rigorous testing, gave the 12.3-megapixel rear camera top marks. According to Tom’s Guide, the Pixel’s camera outperformed every other smartphone camera on the market with an overall score of 89. Pixel’s camera allows you to take stunning photos in low, bright, or any light.

Google also highlights the Pixel’s battery and charge time. According to the manufacturer, 15 minutes of charging will provide 7 hours of use. Pixel is also the first phone to include Google Assistant, the company’s virtual “smart” service that allows users to have “a natural conversation with Google” to search for or complete tasks.

Pixel phones started at $649 (the same as the iPhone 7) for the smaller models and $769 for the “XL” model. If your budget cannot afford a phone for $600 or above, you can purchase a used phone at a much lower prices. The phone is available in three different colors: “really blue,” “very silver,” and “quite black.” Pixel can be purchased at all Verizon retail locations, including Best Buy stores, and is available for preorder directly from Google.

At the same time as the Pixel launch, Google announced a new virtual reality headset and a home assistant to compete with Amazon’s Alexa.

Final Thoughts 

As mentioned, Google Pixel was the first smartphone company created entirely by Google without collaboration with other companies. Therefore, Pixel is not just an Android phone, but it is a different Android smartphone provided with unique features that were mentioned in this article. Hence, it is an excellent phone if your budget affords it, but a used phone is an excellent option if you want to save money.