Google Pixel 6 release date, design: Selfie camera is likely moving to the screen’s top-center causing some UI changes

New information was spotted from a recent Google app update suggesting that the Pixel 6 could launch with its selfie camera positioned in the top-center of the screen. As a result, fans of the smartphone brand should also expect some UI changes.

Google Pixel 6 will look slightly different

Google has just released the Google Camera version 8.2 and, aside from its updates, its codes may have also provided clues on the changes to expect on the forthcoming Pixel 6. 9To5Google reported that the update’s codes had made references to unreleased smartphones with codenames “raven” and “oriole,” and the latter is believed to be the internal name for the Pixel 6.

The source of information does not say much about the Pixel 6 specs and features, aside from the potential changes in its front-facing sensor. Pieces of evidence mined from the Camera update reportedly hints at the repositioning of the selfie camera from the upper-left corner to the center of the screen. If the device came out with the design, fans should expect the UI to change a bit as well.

Having the selfie camera in the center means the icons for the system clock and other notifications will have to move on the left side of the Pixel 6 display. The battery information, on the other hand, is expected to remain on the right side of the screen.

A more interesting detail found in the app’s code also suggests the Pixel 6 selfie camera will be smaller in radius. But picking up clues from the changes in Google Camera 8.2, the publication believes that the upcoming device will support front-facing 4K videos. When Pixel 5 launched last fall, its selfie video mode is restricted to 1080p@30fps, but that was updated in Google Camera 8.2 to add a 4K mode. This change is expected to be carried out in its predecessor.

Will there be a Google Pixel 6 XL?

With several months left before the likely launch of Pixel 6, is it not surprising that the rumor mill does not have much information about the device yet. However, the presence of another device in the Google Camera 8.2 codes, called “raven,” could be an indication that an XL model is in the pipeline as well.

XDA Developers note that other codenames found in Google updates “barbette” and “passport” refer to the Pixel 5a and a foldable smartphone, respectively. As mentioned, Google fans will have to wait a while before the Pixel 6 announcement as it is not expected to be launched until fall.

Featured photo by Daniel Romero on Unsplash