The Google Pixel 4 series is coming and among the usual improvements like better cameras and faster processors, there is one new component on leaked Pixel 4 XL images that we have not seen on other phones so far.
Yes, we are talking about that suspiciously large top bezel and more specifically, about the area on the right, where a new sensor resides.
So... what is it?
Some speculate that this area will appear as completely black on the outside, with an invisible sensor lying underneath, and that sensor is said to be a "Soli Radar". To understand what this means, we need to go back to Google I/O 2015 when the company unveiled Project Soli, an initiative based on radar hardware that would allow controlling a device via subtle hand movements. The only thing that we can imagine coming closer to such an idea would be the hand gestures on the LG G8 ThinQ, an interesting idea with very little practical value.
Just a look at that mysterious hollow on top right inside of #Pixel4XL front panel. Knowing it's pretty deep nd seems to be no glass transparency, it's likely there to accommodate Soli Radar components IMO. Again, JUST AN ASSUMPTION based on that hollow location, size nd shape pic.twitter.com/2PzpdnToIn
Of course, there are other options on the table. Apple has been implementing a True Tone feature for its screens for years, basically adjusting the balance of white to the ambient light conditions for more realistic representation of colors. The mysterious large sensor at the front of the Pixel could be used for that purpose.
Other options on the table?
A third suggestion would be that it houses components for a Google-made Face ID system, a secure 3D face identification platform of the kind that iPhones have had ever since the X.
Whatever it is, we know that there must be a good reason for it. After the huge and unsightly notch on the Pixel 3 XL, it seems that Google is preparing a phone with a giant top bezel that is not much better, and it better have a good reason for it.
Create a free account and join our vibrant community
Register to enjoy the full PhoneArena experience. Here’s what you get with your PhoneArena account:
Victor, a seasoned mobile technology expert, has spent over a decade at PhoneArena, exploring the depths of mobile photography and reviewing hundreds of smartphones across Android and iOS ecosystems. His passion for technology, coupled with his extensive knowledge of smartphone cameras and battery life, has positioned him as a leading voice in the mobile tech industry.
Recommended Stories
Loading Comments...
COMMENT
All comments need to comply with our
Community Guidelines
Phonearena comments rules
A discussion is a place, where people can voice their opinion, no matter if it
is positive, neutral or negative. However, when posting, one must stay true to the topic, and not just share some
random thoughts, which are not directly related to the matter.
Things that are NOT allowed:
Off-topic talk - you must stick to the subject of discussion
Offensive, hate speech - if you want to say something, say it politely
Spam/Advertisements - these posts are deleted
Multiple accounts - one person can have only one account
Impersonations and offensive nicknames - these accounts get banned
Moderation is done by humans. We try to be as objective as possible and moderate with zero bias. If you think a
post should be moderated - please, report it.
Have a question about the rules or why you have been moderated/limited/banned? Please,
contact us.
![T-Mobile users can get iPhone 16 for the price of a budget phone (no new line) [UPDATED]](https://m-cdn.phonearena.com/images/article/167601-wide-two_350/T-Mobile-users-can-get-iPhone-16-for-the-price-of-a-budget-phone-no-new-line-UPDATED.jpg)
FCC OKs Cingular\'s purchase of AT&T Wireless
Things that are NOT allowed: