Google Pixel (2016) smartphone

Photo: WClarke via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Google

Google Pixel (2016)

October 20, 2016 7/10 Rating Updated
In brief: The Google Pixel (2016) was Google's inaugural smartphone, launched in October 2016, marking a significant shift from the Nexus line to Google-designed hardware. It featured a 5.0-inch AMOLED display, powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 processor, and was notable for its highly-rated 12.3 MP camera and the introduction of Google Assistant. Running Android 7.1 Nougat out of the box, it offered a pure Android experience with guaranteed software updates.
Display5.0" AMOLED, 1080x1920 pixels
ChipsetQualcomm Snapdragon 821
Main Camera12.3 MP, f/2.0
Battery2770 mAh
Starting from $169

💰 Google Pixel (2016) Price

The Google Pixel (2016) lowest price is $169, based on current retailer listings.

📌 Full Specifications

Display

TypeAMOLED
Size5.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 (~69.0% screen-to-body ratio)
Resolution1080 x 1920 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~441 ppi density)
ProtectionCorning Gorilla Glass 4

Platform

OSAndroid 7.1 (Nougat), upgradable to Android 10
ChipsetQualcomm MSM8996 Snapdragon 821 (14 nm)
CPUQuad-core (2x 2.15 GHz Kryo & 2x 1.6 GHz Kryo)
GPUAdreno 530

Memory

Card slotNo
Internal32GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM (UFS 2.0)

Main Camera

Single12.3 MP, f/2.0, 1/2.3", 1.55µm, PDAF, Laser AF
FeaturesDual-LED flash, HDR, panorama
Video4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60/120fps, 720p@240fps (gyro-EIS)

Selfie Camera

Single8 MP, f/2.4, 1/3.2", 1.4µm
Video1080p@30fps

Battery

TypeLi-Ion 2770 mAh, non-removable
Charging18W wired (Power Delivery)

Body

Dimensions143.8 x 69.5 x 8.5 mm (5.66 x 2.74 x 0.33 in)
Weight143 g (5.04 oz)
BuildGlass front (Gorilla Glass 4), aluminum/glass back, aluminum frame
ProtectionWater-repellent coating

Comms

WLANWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, DLNA
Bluetooth4.2, A2DP, LE, aptX
PositioningGPS, GLONASS
NFCYes
RadioNo
USBUSB Type-C 3.0

Launch

AnnouncedOctober 4, 2016
StatusReleased October 20, 2016. Discontinued.

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Excellent camera performance for its time
  • Prompt Android software updates
  • Smooth performance with Snapdragon 821
  • Compact and premium build
  • 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Unlimited cloud storage for photos and videos

Cons

  • Relatively small battery capacity (2770mAh)
  • No expandable storage (no microSD card slot)
  • No wireless charging
  • Not officially water-resistant (only water-repellent coating)
  • Large bezels for its time
  • High price at launch
★ Our Verdict

While innovative for its time with a great camera and pure Android experience, its battery life and lack of expandable storage were notable drawbacks.

The original Google Pixel (2016) is now a vintage smartphone and is not recommended for daily use due to outdated software support, potentially degraded battery health, and lack of modern security updates. If you're a collector or an Android enthusiast looking for a piece of smartphone history, it could be an interesting device to own. However, for practical use, consider newer Pixel models or other contemporary budget smartphones that offer better performance, longer battery life, and current software support. Be aware that finding replacement parts or official support will be extremely difficult.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • Google Pixel Handset
  • USB-C to USB-C cable
  • USB-C to USB-A adapter (OTG)
  • 18W Power adapter
  • SIM ejector tool
  • Quick Start Guide

Typically, new smartphones come with a one-year limited manufacturer's warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship.

❓ Questions & Answers

What is the Google Pixel (2016)?

The Google Pixel (2016) was the first smartphone designed and marketed by Google, launched in October 2016, succeeding the Nexus line.

What were the key features of the Google Pixel (2016)?

It was known for its highly-rated 12.3 MP camera, the introduction of Google Assistant, a pure Android experience, and unlimited cloud storage for photos.

When was the Google Pixel (2016) released?

The Google Pixel (2016) was officially released on October 20, 2016.

What operating system did the Google Pixel (2016) run?

It launched with Android 7.1 Nougat and was upgradable to Android 10.

Does the Google Pixel (2016) have a good camera?

Yes, its 12.3 MP rear camera was highly praised at the time of its release, receiving top ratings from independent benchmarks.

Is the Google Pixel (2016) still a good phone to buy today?

No, it is not recommended for daily use due to outdated software, lack of security updates, and potentially degraded battery performance. It's more suitable for collectors.