Google Pixel 6 Pro: A Comprehensive Overview for Australian Consumers

The Google Pixel 6 Pro, launched in October 2021, has captured significant attention worldwide. In Australia, the excitement is palpable as tech enthusiasts and everyday users alike delve into the new features and capabilities of this flagship device. This article offers an in-depth look at the Google Pixel 6 Pro, covering its design, performance, camera capabilities, software, and how it stands out in the competitive Australian market.

Design and Build Quality

The Google Pixel 6 Pro boasts a bold and distinctive design that sets it apart from its predecessors and competitors. It features a glass front and back with an aluminium frame, giving it a premium feel. The device is available in three colours: Stormy Black, Cloudy White, and Sorta Sunny, catering to various aesthetic preferences.

One of the most striking design elements is the camera bar that spans the width of the phone on the back. This not only houses the advanced camera system but also contributes to the phone’s unique look. The build quality is robust, with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus on the front and Gorilla Glass 6 on the back, providing enhanced durability against scratches and drops. The device is also IP68 rated, ensuring resistance against dust and water.

Display

The Pixel 6 Pro features a 6.7-inch LTPS AMOLED display with a resolution of 1440 x 3120 pixels, offering a sharp and vibrant viewing experience. The display supports a 120Hz refresh rate, which provides smooth scrolling and an enhanced gaming experience. The adaptive refresh rate can scale down to 10Hz to conserve battery life when high refresh rates are not needed.

With HDR10+ support, the Pixel 6 Pro delivers stunning visuals with deep blacks and bright highlights, making it ideal for streaming high-definition content. The Always-On Display feature also adds convenience, allowing users to glance at notifications, time, and other essential information without fully waking the device.

Performance

Under the hood, the Google Pixel 6 Pro is powered by Google’s custom-built Tensor SoC (System on Chip), marking a significant shift from the Qualcomm Snapdragon processors used in previous models. This new chip is designed to enhance AI and machine learning capabilities, providing a more responsive and intelligent user experience.

The Tensor chip is complemented by 12GB of RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and efficient performance across various applications. The device is available in three storage options: 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB, catering to different user needs. However, it’s important to note that the Pixel 6 Pro does not support expandable storage, so choosing the right storage capacity upfront is crucial.

Camera System

The camera system is one of the standout features of the Pixel 6 Pro. It includes a triple-lens setup: a 50MP wide lens, a 48MP telephoto lens with 4x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultra-wide lens. This combination allows for a versatile photography experience, from wide landscapes to detailed close-ups.

Google’s computational photography prowess is evident in the Pixel 6 Pro, with features like Magic Eraser, which removes unwanted objects from photos, and Motion Mode, which adds a sense of motion to still images. Night Sight has also been improved, allowing for stunning low-light photography without the need for a flash.

The front-facing camera is 11.1MP and supports 4K video recording, making it ideal for selfies and video calls. Video recording on the rear cameras supports up to 4K resolution at 60fps, with features like cinematic pan, which provides a smooth, movie-like effect to videos.

Software and Features

The Pixel 6 Pro runs on Android 12 out of the box, offering a clean and intuitive user interface with the latest features from Google. Android 12 introduces Material You, a design language that personnalises the UI based on the user’s wallpaper, creating a cohesive and personalised look.

Google Assistant is deeply integrated into the device, offering advanced voice recognition and AI capabilities. Features like Live Translate allow real-time translation of conversations, text, and images in multiple languages, which can be incredibly useful in a multicultural country like Australia.

The Pixel 6 Pro also includes enhanced security features, such as the Titan M2 security chip, which provides additional layers of protection for sensitive data. Google promises at least five years of security updates, ensuring that the device remains secure over its lifespan.

Battery Life and Charging

The Pixel 6 Pro is equipped with a 5003mAh battery, providing ample power to last through a full day of heavy use. The adaptive battery feature helps optimise power consumption based on the user’s habits, extending battery life when needed.

The device supports 30W fast charging, allowing for a 50% charge in just 30 minutes. However, it’s worth noting that the fast charger is sold separately. Wireless charging is also supported, with speeds up to 23W using compatible chargers. Additionally, reverse wireless charging enables the Pixel 6 Pro to charge other devices, such as earbuds or other smartphones, adding a layer of convenience for users on the go.

Connectivity and Additional Features

In terms of connectivity, the Pixel 6 Pro supports 5G, offering fast and reliable internet speeds where 5G networks are available in Australia. This ensures smooth streaming, quick downloads, and seamless online gaming experiences.

The device also features Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, and NFC, providing robust and versatile connectivity options. The in-display fingerprint sensor offers a convenient and secure way to unlock the phone, although some users have reported it to be slightly slower compared to physical sensors.

Market Position and Competitors

In the Australian market, the Google Pixel 6 Pro faces competition from other flagship smartphones such as the iPhone 13 Pro Max, Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, and the Oppo Find X3 Pro. Each of these devices offers unique features and strengths, making the choice largely dependent on user preferences.

The Pixel 6 Pro’s strengths lie in its advanced AI capabilities, superior camera system, and seamless integration with Google’s ecosystem. Its pricing is competitive, starting at AUD 1,299, which is relatively affordable compared to other flagship devices. This makes it an attractive option for users looking for high-end features without the premium price tag.

Conclusion

The Google Pixel 6 Pro represents a significant leap forward for Google’s smartphone lineup. Its combination of innovative design, powerful performance, advanced camera capabilities, and seamless software integration makes it a strong contender in the flagship market. For Australian consumers, the Pixel 6 Pro offers a compelling package that balances cutting-edge technology with practical usability.

Whether you’re a tech enthusiast looking for the latest features or an everyday user seeking a reliable and high-performing device, the Pixel 6 Pro is worth considering. With its focus on AI-driven features and a commitment to long-term software support, it’s poised to provide a top-tier smartphone experience well into the future.

FAQs

Q. Will the Pixel 6 Pro receive software updates?

A. Yes, Google has committed to providing at least five years of security updates for the Pixel 6 Pro, ensuring it stays secure and up-to-date with the latest software enhancements.

Q. Does the Google Pixel 6 Pro have a headphone jack?

A. No, the Pixel 6 Pro does not have a headphone jack. Users will need to use Bluetooth headphones or USB-C wired headphones.

Q. Can I use Google Assistant on the Pixel 6 Pro?

A. Yes, Google Assistant is deeply integrated into the Pixel 6 Pro, offering advanced voice recognition and AI capabilities for hands-free assistance and control.

Q. What is the warranty period for the Google Pixel 6 Pro in Australia?

A. The Pixel 6 Pro comes with a standard 12-month warranty in Australia. Additional protection plans may be available for purchase through Google or the retailer.

Q. How does the Pixel 6 Pro compare to other flagship smartphones?

A. The Pixel 6 Pro competes well with other flagship smartphones like the iPhone 13 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, offering advanced AI features, a superior camera system, and a competitive price point. Its unique design and deep integration with Google services also set it apart.