The Google Pixel and the iPhone have been battling it out for the ‘best mobile’ crown for some time now, and Autumn 2019 sees the launch of the latest iterations of both devices.
The Google Pixel 4 and the iPhone 11 (or XI as it’s also known) have been hotly anticipated and promise to surpass their predecessors in terms of functionality and usability. So let’s take a closer look at both to see what all the fuss is about.
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iPhone 11 versus Google Pixel 4
Fans of the iPhone have been eagerly awaiting the latest releases and they’ll have three versions to choose from – the most ‘basic’ being the iPhone 11 (or iPhone 11 R), the iPhone 11 Pro and the larger iPhone 11 Pro Max.
At the time of writing, it was predicted that Google will be launching a brand new Pixel 4 range comprising of four handsets, rather than just updating the current 3s.
Let’s take a look at what each brand has store in terms of cameras, battery life and usability.
Cameras and photography
Whichever iPhone handset you go for, it’s good news if you’re into photography. The Pro and the Max handsets will boast a square-shaped triple-lens rear camera to help Apple rival Samsung’s Galaxy Note 10 and the OnePlus 7 Pro, which had previously overtaken them in the camera stakes.
That means you’ll get more detailed pictures with enhanced colours, extra zoom options and 3D imaging – essentially giving you professional photography ability in your pocket.
Google Pixel 4 only has a dual camera kit but both will feature large square camera ‘islands’ on the top rear left of the handsets.
The Google Pixel 4 will have a 5.7-inch display while the iPhone Pro is expected to keep its 5.8-inch screen, so not a whole lot of difference in screen size.
Prices
According to T3, prices for the iPhone are set to be in line with current models – around £749 for the cheapest version, £999+ for the flagship model and £1,099+ for the larger flagship.
For the Google Pixel 4, meanwhile, you’re likely to be looking at a similar price to the Pixel 3 and 3 XL, according to Tech Advisor, which retail at £739 and £869 respectively for the base models. But if Google decides to make the Pixel 5G-ready, those prices could creep a lot closer to £900 or £1000.
Battery life
A smartphone can live and die by its battery life – if it’s substandard and drains quickly, consumers might not consider it worth the risk, no matter how good the features.
Time and again Pixel users have been left disappointed with the poor life of their phone’s battery. And while the features of the Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL will have no doubt got them ready with their cash in hand, lots of users will want to see some assurance that the phones have batteries that are built to last.
There’s no way of telling pre-release – the proof will be in the pudding – but the reliability of Pixel XL’s battery gives us some hope that Google will get it right this time.
Apple iPhone users, meanwhile, will be hoping that there’s some truth in the rumours that the iPhone 11 will come packed with a better boasting a 25% capacity boost over previous models.
One thing’s for sure: the iPhone battery will have the capacity to share its power with other devices and form a two-way wireless charging system. That means you’ll be able to wirelessly charge your other Apple devices, like the Apple Watch or Airpods.
Usability
Beyond the new-and-improved cameras, what else can we expect from the two new handsets?
For the iPhone, 3D Touch is out and has been replaced with a new Haptic Touch feature. To use this, you simply use a longer press on the screen to unlock extra features and menus within apps.
A new version of this has been dubbed ‘Taptic Touch’, according to a report by 9to5Mac, although we don’t have many details on how exactly this will work at the time of writing.
Moving back to the Google Pixel 4, you’ll no longer have to touch your phone to make things happen. The new Pixel range will feature Motion Sense, a technology that allows the phone to carry out commands simply based on your gestures.
Motion Sense will not be available in all countries, but UK handsets are expected to have the Soli radar chip, located in the top bezel. This feature will enable you to skip songs, snooze alarms, and silence unwanted phone calls with a mere wave of your hand. Sounds pretty cool!
Google says its Advanced Technology and Projects team has been working on the technology for the past five years, so we’re expecting something quite revolutionary. But it cautions that Motion Sense will evolve over time – so don’t be surprised if there are a few teething problems.
Will the new iPhone 11 have 5G?
Unfortunately, the iPhone 11 will not be 5G ready, but Apple is reported to be launching three 5G phones in 2020.
Some reports have claimed that the Google Pixel 4 will include the Snapdragon 855 chip, which supports 5G. If that’s the case, we could see the first 5G-enabled phone but we’ll have to wait and see.
Protect your handset with mobile phone insurance
Whether you go with the Google Pixel 4 or plump for the iPhone 11, mobile phone insurance is a must.
We depend on our phones for everything these days – not just for making calls but for taking pictures, navigating to a new place and even waking us up in the morning!
One little accident and that shiny new mobile might be heading for the bin without mobile phone insurance.
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