Although it is expected that Google will launch its next flagships with top-tier specs, it seems that not all premium features will be included. Speculations suggest that the Pixel and Pixel XL will only be dust- and water-resistant — not proofed — up to a point.
According to Android Police, supposed leaks have mentioned that the upcoming Google Pixel and Pixel XL flagships will get IP53 dust and water resistance rating. Should this prove true, this means that the new flagship will not be elements-proofed and will offer resistance from dust and water slightly higher than an average smartphone. This is far from the expected IP67 or IP68 rating — the certification that came from previous flagship releases — which offered dust and water resistance, even when a device is submerged into water for up to a meter or more.
The IP53 rating is a surprise feature for the Google flagships, since many fans expected that the Pixel and Pixel XL will come out with IP67 or IP68 rating, the same certification that current flagships like the Galaxy S7 series or the new iPhone 7 offer.
However, even with a downgraded feature, it is still expected that the other specs and features for the Pixel and Pixel XL remain top-notch. Rumors suggest that the new flagships will offer the step-up Snapdragon 821 processor, paired with at least 4 GB of RAM. The display may be a Super AMOLED screen, a 5.0-inch setup for the Pixel, and a larger 5.5-inch one for the Pixel XL. Other purported specs include an above-average camera setup, a fingerprint scanner, and an updated Android 7.1 platform.
As to when fans can expect the new flagships, rumors point out an Oct. 4 launch for the Pixel and Pixel XL. Since Google has its own online store, it is expected that the new iterations will become available in the market just days — if not on the debut itself — after the launch.
