Singtel announced a partnership with Google to become the official telecommunications provider for the highly anticipated Google Pixel 2 XL in Singapore. Starting November 15th, Singtel customers will have the exclusive opportunity to be the first in Southeast Asia to purchase this new device.
Yuen Kuan Moon, Singtel’s Chief Executive Officer for Consumer Singapore, expressed excitement about bringing the Pixel 2 XL to Singapore, highlighting its innovative features that have been eagerly awaited by Android fans. Singtel’s extensive 4G network, reaching speeds up to 500Mbps islandwide, combined with their new Combo plans and unlimited data options, promises an unparalleled Google Pixel 2 XL experience, allowing users to fully utilize features such as taking high-quality photos, uploading content, and engaging with Google Assistant.
According to Google, the Pixel 2 XL boasts the highest-rated camera globally, as evaluated by independent camera experts DxOMark. This camera excels in capturing exceptional photos and videos in any lighting condition. Additionally, users benefit from unlimited cloud storage for their photos and videos on Google Photos. The phone’s long-lasting battery provides up to 7 hours of usage with just a 15-minute charge. Moreover, the Pixel 2 XL introduces Google Lens, a new set of visual smarts, and a localized version of Google Assistant optimized for Singaporean English (Singlish), both features are set to be launched later this year.
A recent Google blog post highlighted the camera’s capabilities, including high-quality portrait shots with background blur (bokeh) achievable with both front and rear cameras. It also introduced a new “motion photos” feature capturing a few seconds of video around a still image. Video stabilization is also improved by combining optical and electronic stabilization.
Mario Queiroz, Google’s VP and GM for Phones, emphasized that the Pixel 2 camera leverages computational photography and machine learning, making these impressive features user-friendly and efficient. He also revealed their commitment to continuous camera advancements, citing the forthcoming augmented reality (AR) stickers as an example, an exclusive feature for Pixel users, which allows superimposing graphics onto real-life surroundings in photos and videos.
Pixel 2 owners will have early access to Google Lens, a feature leveraging Google’s advancements in computer vision, machine learning, and the Knowledge Graph that powers Google Search. Upon release, users can utilize Google Lens directly within Google Photos to gather information about landmarks, books, music, movies, and artwork. Furthermore, it enables the extraction of URLs and contact details from images of posters or business cards. Queiroz assured users that Google Lens will receive continuous updates and will be integrated with Google Assistant.
The Google Assistant, seamlessly integrated into the Pixel 2, simplifies tasks such as texting, calling, and finding information, by offering a faster, easier, and hands-free experience. Queiroz highlighted the accuracy of the text dictation feature, minimizing the need for edits compared to other assistants. The Pixel 2 also introduces “Active Edge,” a new feature that allows users to activate Google Assistant by squeezing the phone, even when it’s in a case.
Water and dust resistant with an IP67 rating, the Pixel 2 ensures durability and protection against the elements. Google will be providing monthly security updates for enhanced device security. The phone is available in two sizes: a 5-inch version with a cinematic OLED display in Just Black, Clearly White, and Kinda Blue, and a 6-inch Pixel 2 XL with a pOLED 18:9 display in Just Black and Black & White. Both variants operate on Android 8.0 Oreo and feature an always-on display, allowing users to view notifications without activating the phone.
Complementing the Pixel 2 are new cases and accessories, including customizable Google Live Cases and a variety of cases, cables, headphones, and more, developed by over 25 partners as part of the “made for Google” program. Queiroz highlighted that these products undergo rigorous testing and bear a badge on their packaging to certify their compatibility with Google’s standards.
Customers in Singapore can now register their interest in the Google Pixel 2 XL with Singtel starting at 9 am today. Google assures a seamless transition for new Pixel users, claiming that most users can transfer contacts, apps, messages, photos, and even iMessages from their old phones to Pixel in 10 minutes or less.
In India, the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL will be available online exclusively through Flipkart and at over 1,000 retail stores nationwide. The Pixel 2 will be available from November 1, 2017, with the Pixel 2 XL following on November 15, 2017. The pricing for the Indian market is as follows: Pixel 2 64GB (Rs 61,000), Pixel 2 128GB (Rs 70,000), Pixel 2 XL 64GB (Rs 73,000), and Pixel 2 XL 128GB (Rs 82,000). Pre-orders will commence on October 26, 2017. The Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL will also launch in Australia.
*Google offers free, unlimited original-quality storage for photos and videos captured on Pixel devices until the end of 2020. After that, users will still enjoy free, unlimited high-quality storage for photos taken on Pixel.
**Battery life is estimated based on usage with the included charger, combining talk time, data usage, and standby time with the “always on” display feature disabled. Actual battery life may deviate - refer to the website for detailed information.