Pixel 11 Pro XL review: Snappier cameras can’t hide an iterative upgrade

The Pixel 11 Pro XL was released, but its design updates don't stand out much from previous models. The standout features are its new color options and a small glowing light on the back. The device comes with Gemini features, but their impact on attracting customers to buy new phones is unclear. Daily usage reveals that the camera performance is quicker, and users have more customization options for their photos.

However, the Pixel 11 Pro XL appears to be an iterative upgrade, rather than a groundbreaking leap forward. Despite the minor updates, the phone remains solid and enjoyable to use. The Obsidian Pixel 11 Pro XL has been used for nearly a week, and users praise the Rambler feature, an AI-powered dictation tool that removes filler words like "um" and "ah."

This feature competes well with other dictation apps on the market. Additionally, the Proactive Suggestions feature helps surface context-aware suggestions from apps, although some limitations exist in terms of calendar integration and suggestion consistency. The Live Translate feature is handy for live streams or videos without translated captions, but it requires downloading specific languages.

The HiLight feature, an LED notification light on the back of the phone, replaces a temperature sensor and allows users to receive subtle alerts by light color when Gemini is active. However, the feature's practicality is limited, as it only works with Gemini or phone calls from favorite contacts. Lastly, the new Looks feature, which functions like filters, aims to change the computational photography pipeline on the phone. Users can choose from various default looks and customize their preferences.