Google Pixel 2 XL - Is it a good virtual reality smartphone?

Display

6 ''

Pixel Density

537 ppi

Display Technology

AMOLED

Weight

175 g

Resolution

1440 x 2880 px

Released

2017-10

The Google Pixel 2 has grown very strong compared to Google Pixel 1 in terms of software, in the hardware you do not have to expect the reinvention of a wheel. Even so, with its support for VR and ongoing updates coming directly from Google, it's a VR phone that should not be ignored.

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Google Pixel 2 XL – Google introduced the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL in October 2017. What can the Google Pixel 2 XL do?

One thing we can say in advance, the Google Pixel 2 is compared to the first Google Pixel from a hardware perspective, a relatively small upgrade. But in terms of software, it has risen sharply. The Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL were heavily based on Artificial Intelligence.

Check out this Pixel 2 XL review by CNET:

As with the first pixel, the hardware was not much superior to the competition (except the camera). But Google has recognized the importance of the interaction between hardware and software. The successors of the Nexus phones, as Apple does, offered a smartphone under its own name. The production took over the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL again HTC. Since there are no modifications to the operating system, the pure Android can be used in its pure form. The advantage of this is that you always get the latest updates.

Display – High quality, moderate pixel density

It is very pleasing that Google places the pixel very much on VR. But it is still questionable why the pixel density is still below 450 ppi. Diehard VR junkies should, as in the first version, grab the Google Pixel 2 XL. After all, the colors and contrasts thanks to AMOLED (or pOLED) are a feast for the eyes. The edges around the display are also smaller, so that the display, similar to the Samsung Galaxy S8, almost decorates the entire front.

The Pixel 2 XL no longer has a headphone jack

Although Google has allowed a small swipe towards Apple in the conception of the Pixel 1 (Apple had already omitted the headphone connection with the iPhone 7), the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL did not use the 3.5mm headphone jack. With a cheap adapter (around 10 € to 20 €) you can still connect headphones with cables.

Google has introduced its own headphones called “Google Pixel Buds”. The design is Google-typical very simple and relaxed held in contrast to the very noble and minimalist design of Apple. The Pixel Buds can be comfortably worn around the neck and left hanging when not in use. The right earpiece is equipped with a touch control. Through gesture control (wiping), apps can be operated easily via the Pixel Buds, without having to take the smartphone into his hand.

Google Pixel 2 XL and VR?

Since Google has proved to be VR with Google Cardboard, Google Daydream and Google Daydream View, this question is actually superfluous, actually. As mentioned earlier, the pixel density of the Google Pixel 2 is again below 450 ppi and could have been a bit higher. As you can see on our Cardboard Smartphone Leaderboard (The Best VR Smartphones (Cardboard)), the competition also has no problems with higher pixel densities. The Pixel 2 XL looks a little better. Therefore, VR junkies should consider if they would rather take the Pixel 2 XL.

Google Pixel 2 XL VR headset

There is no dedicated VR headset especially made for this smartphone, but you can choose from the best VR headsets and use your smartphone in combination with it. Here you will find the best VR headsets for smartphones: The best VR headsets

Google Pixel 2 XL offers

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How does work virtual reality with your smartphone?

In the video below you will see how it works. This is an example using the Destek VR headset and a Samsung smartphone. This is how it works with almost every combination of smartphone and vr headset: