This year, one major player is about to hit the ESC button in Battle(flag)ship: Google. Everything points to a very strange Google Pixel 5, one that will break all the flagship rules.
In what way? Well, the features that come up with flagship territory are usually the latest chip, biggest RAM, outstanding camera modules and beautiful design and screen.
Samsung has done it in February, Huawei today and Apple is next. And, if the past is any indication, Google should do the same. Only a shocking Camera app teardown is pointing to the opposite. Pixel 5 and Pixel 5 XL, also codenamed Bramble and Redfin, appear with a Snapdragon 765 chip. That chip is the second best from Qualcomm, launched right before the 865 came out.
Why would Google ever downgrade, choosing a lesser chip for their phones? Well, there are two answers, really. On one hand, Google doesn’t need the latest Qualcomm chip. Although, let me tell you, the Snapdragon 765 is at least 30% weaker, if not more, than the 865. And if you’re thinking of 5G, the previous chip supports it too.
The other answer and the one that really intrigues me is that it’s actually a strategic move. Google is doing it on purpose – why? Because, in the long term, this setup is gonna win them more points and maybe even more money from sales.
With a Google Pixel 5 that’s not a mid-ranger but not a flagship either, Google can market it as an affordable premium. A smartphone that’s almost as good as the Galaxy S20 or the iPhone 12, but not quite and comes at a friendlier price, too.
The price range will also help Google not compete directly with Samsung, Apple or even Huawei. And why would they keep fighting the latter? The company hasn‘t managed to dethrone either of them, and guys, we are talking about the makers of Android!
However, Google Pixel’s strong suit was and remains camera software. If they keep that up, it might be enough to overlook the choice of chip. It also won’t hurt the much lower price. As far as we know, we are looking at 500-600 dollars. That’s a bit more than the mid-ranger Pixel 4a but less than the iPhone 12.
When compared to Samsung Galaxy S20, it’s half the price! Quite tempting, right?
Especially since you’re still gonna get at least a dual, if not a triple lens camera on the back. An ultra-wide is more than welcome right now. There’s talk about reverse charging and 3D face unlock even if it’s gonna mean the return of the upper bezel. With the Soli radar around, there’s no going around it.
In fact, design-wise, Pixel 4a might be better looking than Pixel 5. Watch the video above to see what we mean!
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