pixel 2

New Pixel 2 leak ‘confirms’ October release date and Snapdragon 836 SoC

Android

The Google Pixel 2 could be launched as soon as October and feature a Snapdragon 836 processor, if the latest leaks are to be believed.

That’s the lowdown according to respected mobile tipster Evan Blass, whotweeted that Google will be revealing the Pixel 2 and Pixel XL 2 at an October 5 launch event.

Google's second-generation Pixel handsets, powered by Snapdragon 836 SoC's, will be unveiled on October 5th.

— Evan Blass (@evleaks)August 24, 2017

It seems safe for Pixel fans to circle October 5 on their calendars, as Blass has a strong track record when it comes to smartphone crystal gazing and such a launch date would coincide roughly with the one-year anniversary of the originalGoogle Pixel and its big sibling, the Google Pixel XL.

Plus, it would give Google a nice amount of breathing room after the iPhone 8launch but still allow it to deliver a shiny new gadget under the Christmas tree.

Google has also previously confirmed that it intends to unveil a pair of new handsets this year, though we haven’t seen a date pinned to the Pixel 2 until now.

Potentially more interesting is Blass’ conviction that the Pixel 2 will feature a Snapdragon 836 SoC. Such a chipset would be a new addition to Qualcomm’s Snapdragon line-up, representing a minor upgrade on current top-of-the-line processor the Snapdragon 835.

Purported improvements with the Snapdragon 836 include small clock speed bumps and more efficient battery life management. The Pixel 2 would be the first handset to feature the new SoC.

It’s also worth noting that Blass references Pixel ‘handsets’. It seems a safe bet that Google will continue with at least two phones, but we’ve heard murmurings that there may in fact be no less than three Pixel devices this year, with new flagship the Pixel 2 joined by not only a Galaxy Note 8 rival in the Pixel XL 2, but a new mid-range offering.

That said, recent rumours have suggested that the so-called ‘third’ Pixel 2 phone might have been shelved.

Elsewhere, the Pixel 2 is guaranteed to ship with the latest version of Google’s mobile operating system, Android Oreo, and will likely feature a smaller bezel in keeping with the year’s most prevalent mobile trend.