The Google Pixel 4, a flagship smartphone released in 2019, may not be the latest kid on the block, but it still packs a punch. With its impressive camera capabilities, sleek design, and timely software updates, the Pixel 4 remains a popular choice among Android enthusiasts. But how old is the Pixel 4, exactly?
Release Date and Timeline
The Google Pixel 4 was officially announced on October 15, 2019, alongside its bigger sibling, the Pixel 4 XL. The phones went on sale on October 24, 2019, in several countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
Here’s a brief timeline of the Pixel 4’s journey:
- October 15, 2019: Google announces the Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL.
- October 24, 2019: The Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL go on sale in several countries.
- October 2019 to March 2020: The Pixel 4 receives regular software updates, including the Android 10 upgrade.
- March 2020 to October 2020: The Pixel 4 continues to receive timely software updates, including security patches and feature enhancements.
- October 2020: The Pixel 5 series is announced, marking the end of the Pixel 4’s flagship status.
Design and Specifications
The Pixel 4 boasts a sleek and compact design, with a 5.7-inch OLED display and a durable glass back. The phone is available in three colors: Just Black, Clearly White, and Oh So Orange. Under the hood, the Pixel 4 packs a punch with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 processor, 6GB of RAM, and 64GB or 128GB of internal storage.
Here are some key specifications of the Pixel 4:
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Display | 5.7-inch OLED, 1080 x 2280 pixels, 19:9 aspect ratio |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 855, Octa-core, up to 2.84GHz |
| RAM | 6GB |
| Internal Storage | 64GB or 128GB |
| Rear Camera | Dual camera setup: 12.2MP primary sensor, f/1.7, 1.4μm pixels; 16MP telephoto sensor, f/2.4, 1.0μm pixels |
| Front Camera | 8MP, f/2.0, 1.4μm pixels |
| Battery | 2800mAh, non-removable |
Camera Capabilities
The Pixel 4’s camera system is one of its strongest suits. The dual camera setup, consisting of a 12.2MP primary sensor and a 16MP telephoto sensor, offers exceptional image quality, especially in low-light conditions. The camera app is intuitive, with features like Night Sight, Portrait mode, and Super Res Zoom.
The Pixel 4’s camera capabilities are nothing short of exceptional:
Low-Light Performance
The Pixel 4’s camera excels in low-light conditions, thanks to its advanced image processing and the use of machine learning algorithms. The phone can capture stunning images even in dimly lit environments, making it an excellent choice for indoor photography.
Zoom and Portrait Mode
The telephoto lens provides excellent zoom capabilities, allowing users to capture high-quality images from a distance. The Portrait mode, powered by Google’s advanced machine learning algorithms, offers a stunning bokeh effect, making subjects stand out against the background.
Software and Updates
The Pixel 4 shipped with Android 10 out of the box and has continued to receive timely software updates, including security patches and feature enhancements. Google has committed to providing at least three years of software updates to the Pixel 4, ensuring that the phone remains secure and feature-rich.
Here’s a brief overview of the Pixel 4’s software update timeline:
- October 2019: The Pixel 4 receives Android 10.
- December 2019: The Pixel 4 receives its first security patch.
- February 2020: The Pixel 4 receives the Android 11 beta.
- September 2020: The Pixel 4 receives Android 11.
- Ongoing: The Pixel 4 continues to receive regular security patches and feature enhancements.
Conclusion
The Google Pixel 4 may not be the latest flagship smartphone, but it still packs a punch. With its impressive camera capabilities, sleek design, and timely software updates, the Pixel 4 remains a popular choice among Android enthusiasts. Even though it’s been over two years since its release, the Pixel 4 is still a solid option for those looking for a reliable and feature-rich smartphone.
In conclusion, the Pixel 4 may be old, but it’s still gold:
While the Pixel 4 may not have the latest and greatest specifications, it’s still a capable smartphone that offers an excellent user experience. If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly flagship smartphone with a great camera and timely software updates, the Pixel 4 is definitely worth considering.
What is the main attraction of the Pixel 4?
The main attraction of the Pixel 4 lies in its nostalgic design, reminiscent of the earlier smartphones from the early 2010s. The phone’s rounded edges, flat back, and chunky top and bottom bezels pay homage to the smartphones of yesteryear. The design is refreshingly simple, eschewing the modern trend of notch screens and hole-punch cutouts. This retro aesthetic is likely to appeal to those who yearn for a simpler, more straightforward smartphone design.
The Pixel 4’s design is not just about nostalgia, however. The phone’s understated looks belie its impressive internal hardware. With a powerful processor, ample storage options, and Google’s renowned camera software, the Pixel 4 is a force to be reckoned with in the smartphone market. Whether you’re a fan of retro design or simply looking for a reliable smartphone, the Pixel 4 has something to offer.
How does the Pixel 4’s camera compare to its predecessors?
The Pixel 4’s camera is one of its standout features, building upon the success of its predecessors. The phone boasts a dual-lens setup, comprising a 12-megapixel primary sensor and a 16-megapixel telephoto lens. This combination enables the Pixel 4 to capture stunning photos with impressive levels of detail and color accuracy. The camera app is also incredibly intuitive, making it easy to snap great photos with minimal effort.
Compared to its predecessors, the Pixel 4’s camera is more capable than ever. The addition of a telephoto lens enables better zoom capabilities, while the improved software processing ensures that low-light photos are clearer and more detailed. Additionally, the Pixel 4’s camera app is faster and more responsive, making it a joy to use. Whether you’re a casual snapper or a serious photographer, the Pixel 4’s camera is sure to impress.
What are the storage options for the Pixel 4?
The Pixel 4 is available in three storage options: 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB. These options cater to a range of users, from casual users who primarily use their phone for social media and messaging, to power users who need ample storage for their apps, music, and videos. The storage options are also expandable, thanks to the inclusion of a microSD card slot.
It’s worth noting that the Pixel 4 does not come with a headphone jack, so users will need to rely on Bluetooth headphones or USB-C earbuds. However, the phone does come with a generous 6GB of RAM, ensuring that it can handle demanding tasks with ease. Overall, the Pixel 4’s storage options provide a good balance between capacity and affordability.
How does the Pixel 4’s battery life compare to other flagship smartphones?
The Pixel 4’s battery life is decent, but not exceptional. With a 2800mAh battery, the phone can last a full day with moderate use, but may struggle to make it through a heavy usage day. This is largely due to the phone’s OLED screen, which can be power-hungry. However, the Pixel 4 does support fast charging, and can quickly top up its battery with a quick 15-minute charge.
Compared to other flagship smartphones, the Pixel 4’s battery life is somewhat lacking. Many modern flagships boast batteries of 4000mAh or higher, making them better suited to heavy users. However, the Pixel 4’s efficient software and power-saving features help to mitigate its relatively small battery. Additionally, the phone’s compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around, reducing the need for a bulky battery.
Is the Pixel 4’s software experience identical to other Pixel phones?
The Pixel 4 runs on stock Android 11, providing a clean and intuitive software experience. The phone’s software is largely identical to other Pixel devices, with a few minor tweaks and additions. The most notable change is the inclusion of a new gesture-based navigation system, which replaces the traditional three-button navigation layout.
The Pixel 4’s software experience is characterized by its simplicity and ease of use. The phone’s home screen is minimalistic, with a focus on Google’s core apps and services. The notification shade is also clean and easy to use, providing quick access to important settings and features. Overall, the Pixel 4’s software experience is highly polished and reliable, making it a great choice for users who value simplicity and ease of use.
Can I customize the look and feel of the Pixel 4?
While the Pixel 4’s software is largely untouched, there are some customization options available. Users can change the phone’s wallpaper, add widgets to the home screen, and customize the notification shade. Additionally, the phone supports third-party launchers, allowing users to radically change the look and feel of their phone.
However, it’s worth noting that the Pixel 4’s software is designed to be minimalist and easy to use. As such, there are limited customization options compared to other Android devices. Users who prefer a high degree of customization may find the Pixel 4’s software experience somewhat limiting. Nevertheless, the phone’s clean and intuitive design makes it easy to use and navigate, even for users who are new to Android.
Is the Pixel 4 compatible with 5G networks?
The Pixel 4 is not compatible with 5G networks, which may be a drawback for users who live in areas with widespread 5G coverage. This is largely due to the phone’s older hardware, which was designed before the widespread adoption of 5G.
However, it’s worth noting that 5G coverage is still limited in many areas, and the Pixel 4’s 4G LTE connectivity is still more than adequate for most users. Additionally, the phone’s impressive camera and software experience make it a great choice for users who prioritize these features over 5G connectivity.