Alleged first look at the Google Pixel 6 reveals a drastic design change

What you need to know

• Alleged renders of the Google Pixel 6 have emerged for the first time.
• The images show a drastically different design language for the device.
• The Pixel 6 is rumored to launch later this year towards the fall.

After rumors swirled for some time about Google’s next flagship Pixel, leaker Jon Prosser revealed images of Google Pixel 6, giving us our first look at what the device will look like. The images (below) show a very different Pixel than what we’ve seen from the last few models, thanks to a fairly drastic change in design.

On the display side, Google has moved the selfie camera to the middle of the display, which matches previous rumors of the device. The Pixel 6 is also allegedly going to feature an in-display fingerprint sensor, moving away from the rear sensor.

The camera array has also been changed from the stove-like design found on its predecessors like the Google Pixel 5. It’s now a protruding horizontal array with two or three camera sensors, depending on the model. The details of the cameras are unknown, but based on Google’s track record, it can be expected that the sensors won’t push the needle in terms of resolution.

Apparently, Google is now only switching up its design but also its naming scheme. Instead of releasing an “XL” model, Google is releasing both a standard Pixel 6 and a Pixel 6 Pro, following the trend of some of the best Android phones released this year. At first glance, the major difference between the two models appears to be the number of rear cameras.

As with the Pixel Watch leak, Prosser notes that the renders are recreations based on images that he received of the device, so take them with a grain of salt, especially since the renders are likely somewhat exaggerated. That said, Android Central believes these renders to be accurate.

Another leaker, Max Weinbach, appears to validate the updated design to an extent:

I can independently confirm the Pixel 6 renders are accurate in design, but color isn’t.

— Max Weinbach (@MaxWinebach) May 13, 2021

Google was not immediately available for a response.

The Google Pixel 6 is currently rumored to launch later this year, featuring a custom-built, in-house SoC from Google dubbed “Whitechapel.” It is expected to launch alongside the rumored Pixel Watch.

How do you feel about these leaks? Do they get you excited for the Pixel 6?