Review: The Pixel 11 Pro XL is great, but a little too early for Google’s futuristic vision
At this point, phones have been boring for long enough that even calling them boring feels a little passé. The days of smartphones feeling like the cutting edge of technology are long gone, replaced with iterative updates and a big focus on software-as-a-service. Disconnecting from your smartphone might not seem too difficult on its face, but from rideshare apps to mobile payments, today’s…
The Pixel 11 Pro XL is Google's latest offering in the smartphone market, aiming to bridge the gap between our always-connected world and the one we left behind. Despite its innovative features like HiLight, Magic Capture, and Gemini Intelligence, the device appears to be a little too early for Google's futuristic vision. The phone, as with previous Pixel models, maintains a familiar design reminiscent of the Pixel 9 from 2024, albeit with a slightly lighter weight.
However, the camera bar has been revised, necessitating a new case. The overall aesthetic, while elegant, is somewhat bulky, resembling a brick. The color options, such as the Canyon shade, are less vibrant in person than they seem online. A notable feature is the return of the uncovered camera bar, albeit with a new design that has successfully mitigated lens flare issues.
However, the new camera flash, which aims to modernize notification lights through Gemini Intelligence, falls short. It's a wasteful addition that overcomplicates a straightforward concept, requiring users to turn their phones over to receive notifications and reducing the flashlight's usability. The device is significantly heavier than its predecessor and may not appeal to those seeking a lighter, more portable option.
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