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Say it isn't so Google; The Pixel 3 XL may feature the notch (and massive chin)





In retrospect, we probably should have seen this coming. Since the iPhone X (and the Essential PH-1 before it), notches have taken over the world. In fact, I have even written before about the forthcoming "Era of Notches". However, as Google-centric Android person, I loved the fact that my Pixel 2 XL was notchless; I even find the beauty in the Galaxy lineup for its symmetrical bezels. Alas, it appears that Google is fully embracing the notch with the Pixel 3 XL.

Possible Pixel 3 screen protectors
After the "leak" of what appeared to be screen protectors for the upcoming Pixel 3 (due to be released in October), the Android world was sent in to a frenzy. As shown below, while the Pixel 3 appears to resemble the 2 XL, the Pixel 3 XL will featuring a very prominent notch as well as quite a large chin.

The phone will undoubtedly feature the greatest features available as every new flagship does (Snapdragon 845, OLED, plenty of RAM) as well as the signature feature that is Google's incredible camera software. Coupled with front facing speakers, these ingredients will make the Pixel 3 an amazing phone on par with the latest and greatest. Excitingly, the phone appears to have dual front cameras which could mean the inclusion of something akin to FaceID. As a Pixel owner, these phones do not disappoint.

But, that damn notch and chin though...
Render of possible Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL

I understand why companies are trying to include the notch. Apart from giving slightly more screen real estate by moving the notification bar up, the notch is indeed the mobile device trend of the day. If everyone else is doing it, why wouldn't Google?

Am I totally against the notch? Not exactly...if it is utilized correctly. The reason I don't completely object to it on the iPhone X is that lack of chin; the symmetry does not seem completely out of whack. However, Android manufacturers have not been able to duplicate the folded LED panel on the iPhone X that has allowed the chin removal. The massive chin is just unsightly.

Android P allows users to "remove" the notch
Now, could the notch be embraced by not only me, but the rest of the tech community? Possibly, if it is done right. As I have said before, if the notification and status bar were completely blacked out at all times to create the illusion of symmetrical, minimal bezels, I could live with it. That would allow the phone to gain screen space while also not driving my OCD in to overdrive. I would gladly take a phone that resembles my Pixel 2 XL with the top bar sandwiched around the camera. Unfortunately, if the screen protectors and reports are true, the Pixel 3 notch and bezels will not be that.

We ask for so little Google; we just expect you to not be completely idiotic as well as not be a complete follower. I hope these rumors and potential screen protectors are not true, but it would seem that they may have some merit. If that is the case, be prepared to hear the huge sigh of disappointment from your most loyal fans.

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