Product test
Google Pixel 10 review: a mischievous look at a quantum leap in smartphone tech
by Michelle Brändle
Complaining at the highest level: three months with a Pixel 6
9.3.2022
Translation: Patrik Stainbrook
I intended to use the Pixel 6 smartphone for the next four or five years. After the first three months, it’s time for an assessment.
Following Google’s presentation of the Pixel 6 last October, I was hooked. A chipset with advanced AI and more security, new camera features and security updates for the next five years. The Pixel 4 and other Google smartphones have served me well before. I therefore struck immediately, ordering the Google device right away.
Software updates and the first Tensor chip
I’m very happy with Android 12 in its pure form. No preinstalled third party bloatware, no ads, and lots of features that I get before everyone else. Even if Samsung and co., for their part, naturally offer features before Google adopts them in the basic version of Android. It’s all those little things, such as visual cues indicating that the camera and/or microphone are in use, which can be disabled via the quick settings.
Camera functions and image quality
The Pixel 4 already convinced me with its image quality. The Pixel 6 continues this trend. Its pictures look good. Whether I shoot during the day or in the dark, the result is always satisfying. There are exceptions here, of course: for example, when the AI wants to make white surfaces appear white despite yellow artificial light and therefore distorts other colours. But it’s only happened to me once so far.
So far, I’m not regretting my decision to forgo the Pixel 6 Pro with better zoom. An extra 250 euros for a telephoto lens as the only relevant difference was asking too much. Apart from that, its 6.7-inch display is also 0.3 inches larger than that of the Pixel 6. I still miss my compact Pixel 4 with its 5.7 inches.
During the unveiling of the Pixel 6, Google referred to new possibilities in AI in photography. I tried both MotionMode and the magic eraser.
MotionMode can be helpful – such as when applying shorter long exposures by hand. Generally, you’ll rarely take those kinds of pics, instead going for snapshots using Action Mode. But it is helpful for photos that require some planning.
The eraser really makes objects disappear, but it relies on a simple background to do so. Otherwise, the image processing will be noticeable quickly. In my example, the police horse vanished, but the AI could only accurately estimate the asphalt behind it. Uniform backgrounds are easier to guess, but don’t prevent shadows from remaining unprocessed.
The battery charges slowly, but lasts for a while
Slow charging was another annoyance that earned criticism shortly after launch. Especially since the Pixel 6 doesn’t even utilise the 30 watts available from the optional Google power adapter. Google claims that these slow charging speeds will make batteries last longer.
When the 4905 mAh battery was fully charged, I did get through my day perfectly well with four to five hours of Pixel 6 screen time. Unlike the Pixel 4, the battery’s capacity is large enough. I haven’t yet been embarrassed by having to refuel most of the battery in a short period of time.
Pimp my Pixel
I was too slow for the colourful Pixel 6 variants at launch. So I just went with the classic black. There’s nothing wrong with that, but somehow it’s just boring. Google’s cases for the Pixel 6 earn an «uninspired» from me. There were more exciting models in the past. Both regarding colour and material. I still remember fabric cases from the Pixel 4 and 5 days.
However, I did stumble across adhesive films from Dbrand. And since the Pixel is supposed to be my device for the next few years, I invested directly in two different outfits. Now I just have to decide if my Pixel will be «transparent» or Raphael from the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
I am satisfied
There are a lot of details to complain about on the Pixel 6. But overall, I’m very satisfied with Google’s smartphone and determined to continue using it for a long time. I like a pure Android and am happy about the speedy and reliable updates. The display is great, the hardware is more than fast enough, and I’ll still spruce up the Pixel 6 visually. In addition, there are the excellent photos and long battery life.
However, there are still enough points of criticism to ensure the Pixel 6 doesn’t receive the title of «best» smartphone. I’m curious as to whether something will really get on my nerves in the long run, and when other test devices will make me want to replace the Pixel 6.
Jan Johannsen
Senior Editor
Jan.Johannsen@galaxus.deWhen I was but a young student, I'd sit in my friend's living room with all my classmates and play on his SuperNES. Since then I've had the opportunity to test out all the newest technology for you. I've done reviews at Curved, Computer Bild and Netzwelt, and have now arrived at Galaxus.de.
