Google Nexus 6P

Into Droid Hardware

The Google Nexus 6P was a significant release in the Nexus lineup, representing Google’s vision of Android in collaboration with Huawei. Here’s an in-depth review of the Google Nexus 6P:

Overview:

Launched in late 2015, the Nexus 6P was the premium counterpart to the Nexus 5X, offering top-tier specifications and a more premium build. It was designed to showcase the best of Android, free from manufacturer customizations.

Features:

  • Operating System: Shipped with Android 6.0 Marshmallow.
  • Display: 5.7-inch AMOLED with a resolution of 1440 x 2560 pixels.
  • Processor: Qualcomm MSM8994 Snapdragon 810 Octa-core.
  • Memory: Options of 3 GB RAM with 32/64/128 GB internal storage.
  • Camera: 12.3 MP rear camera with laser autofocus and 4K video recording. An 8 MP front camera.
  • Battery: 3450 mAh non-removable battery with fast charging support.
  • Other Features: Rear-mounted fingerprint scanner (Nexus Imprint), USB Type-C, front-facing stereo speakers, and an aluminum body.

Pros:

  • Pure Android Experience: Being a Nexus device, the 6P offered a stock Android experience with timely updates directly from Google.
  • Camera Quality: The 12.3 MP camera was praised for its low-light performance and overall image quality.
  • Build and Design: The aluminum body gave the Nexus 6P a premium feel, distinguishing it from many other devices in its price range.
  • Front-facing Speakers: The stereo speakers provided a superior audio experience, especially for media consumption.
  • Nexus Imprint: The fingerprint scanner was fast and accurate, providing an added layer of security and convenience.

Cons:

  • Processor Concerns: The Snapdragon 810 was infamous for its heating issues, though it was said that the version in the 6P was revised to mitigate this.
  • No Expandable Storage: The device did not support microSD cards for storage expansion.
  • Size: For some users, the 5.7-inch display made the device a bit too large for comfortable one-handed use.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In 2015, the Nexus 6P faced competition from various flagship devices:

  • Samsung Galaxy S6: Samsung’s flagship with its revamped design, Exynos 7420 chipset, and impressive camera.
  • iPhone 6s Plus: Apple’s larger flagship variant with its A9Samsung Galaxy S6 chip, 3D Touch, and iOS ecosystem.
  • LG G4: Known for its leather back, removable battery, and camera capabilities.

Launch Date:

The Google Nexus 6P was announced in September 2015 and released in October 2015.

Common Issues/Problems:

  • Battery Issues: Over time, some users reported premature battery shutdowns, where the device would turn off even with battery life remaining.
  • Bootloop Issues: Some Nexus 6P devices faced a bootloop issue, where the device would continuously restart without fully booting up.
  • Bending Concerns: There were reports and tests showing that the Nexus 6P could be bent relatively easily under pressure.

Conclusion:

The Google Nexus 6P was a standout device in the Nexus lineup, offering a blend of premium design, solid specifications, and a pure Android experience. While it had its challenges, especially concerning long-term reliability for some users, it was well-received overall and is fondly remembered by many Android enthusiasts. It represented one of the last devices in the Nexus lineage before Google transitioned to the Pixel series.