Google Pixel 6 release date, specs: New phones feature 120Hz refresh rate, known leaker reports

Google is taking back its place as one of the frontrunners in the flagship smartphone race this year based on the leaked technical specifications for the Pixel 6 Pro. Aside from a bigger screen, the top-tier model is rumored to offer high refresh rates with other improvements in the display.

Leak: Google Pixel 6 Pro specs include significant display upgrades

While the Pixel 5 was released in 2020, the specs and features it offered might not be on par with what Google fans have expected. The company also notably ditched the XL-named phone and released just one device for the lineup.

However, Google is going to make up for that this year with the rumored Pixel 6 Pro. Popular leaker Max Weinbach said during an appearance at the tnkgrl’s Mobile Tech Podcast that Google is finally offering a device with a 120Hz refresh rate. This is in addition to the previously reported 6.67-inch AMOLED screen by prolific tipster OnLeaks. The bigger display is also expected to deliver a higher QHD resolution compared to Pixel 5’s 2340 x 1080 pixels. The base Pixel 6 model is also rumored to feature a 120Hz display.

Weinbach also backed the recurring rumor that Google would introduce its first in-house SoC, most likely with a 5G modem, and is reportedly codenamed Whitechapel. None of the well-known leakers have provided specific details about the Google Silicon, but it is expected to offer speeds somewhere between Snapdragon 870 and Snapdragon 888. This should be another significant improvement considering Google released the Pixel 5 with just the Snapdragon 765G last year.

A whopping 5000mAh battery is expected to power the Pixel 6 Pro. But the smaller phone’s battery specs remain unknown, although it is worth noting that the Pixel 5 launched with a 4080mAh battery.

Pixel 6 release date is slated in October; delays aren’t ruled out yet

Google is reportedly planning to announce the Pixel 6 series in October. This lines up with the company’s previous Made by Google events, but it remains to be seen if Google will host a full launch event.

However, Weinbach also suggested that a delay to November cannot be ruled out yet. Major tech companies and OEMs have been dealing with late release dates or limited product availability due to the ongoing chips shortage. This might affect the launch of the Pixel 6 series, especially if Google is going to use its own SoC.

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