Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

The Nexus 6P is the device Google needed to show off Android's strengths

The Nexus range isn’t exactly associated with premium range, but the 6P changes all of that.

Score: 9/10

Verdict: The best premium Android phone you can get in the market. Expensive but worth it.

IN CASE YOU didn’t realise, releasing two phones in different sizes is the in thing to do. Phablets (those with screens bigger than 5 inches) have become the norm now and since our smartphones are everything but in Google’s case, it’s learnt from the Nexus 6 large size and decided to go for two devices.

The smaller Nexus 5X was a great, if not exactly inspiring, device but its bigger brother, the 6P is going for the premium end of the market. With Huawei designing it, Google’s latest attempt at a high-end device not only banishes memories of the Nexus 6, but gives rivals a serious run for their money.

Going all out

It’s probably fair to say as far as the range is concerned, it’s the classiest smartphone under the Nexus brand. The 6P follows the same designs ideas Huawei uses for its current phones: aluminium build, two plastic covers for the top and bottom, and a Gorilla Glass 4 screen.

The camera and flash are built into the top part, blending in without much effort, while the fingerprint scanner is located at the top-centre, leaving room for a large Nexus logo (and a smaller Huawei logo underneath). Like the 5X, the fingerprint scanner is quick and easy to activate when you’re using it one-handed.

Nexus 6P first gif

It’s the exact same size as the iPhone 6 Plus and which one feels better is really a matter of preference. The iPhone’s rounded corners makes it feel that bit more elegant while the 6P’s flat sides allows for a more solid grip.

As for button and port placement, it’s practical with headphones jack at the top and USB-C port at the bottom. It’s simple and to the point, something that’s apparent with this smartphone.

IMG_0761 The Nexus 5X (left) and 6P side by side.

Working to its strengths

Since this is a Nexus device, it means you’re running the latest version of Android. While Marshmallow has a number of useful features like Doze and Now on Tap, you know what you’re getting at this point.

What was mentioned about the Nexus 5X still applies here. When Android is stripped down to its core, it’s usually a fast and clutter free experience but the 6P’s speed means navigation is lightning fast.

Just swipe through the home screens, to Google Now, or any other app and it will open and load without delay. It’s rather impressive just how fast it can navigate through tasks, even when you feel like you’re pushing it with games.

The visuals are helped with the sharper screen, one that has 1440 x 2560 resolution and a high pixel density (~518). It gives added clarity and the larger size provides apps on your home screen with a bit of breathing space. 

IMG_0747

High-end

In terms of specs, it’s exactly what you would expect from a high-end device and considering the price you’re paying for it, it’s the least you can expect.

As mentioned earlier, Huawei has a habit of bringing out cheaper mid- and high-end devices with higher end specs, and this is no exception. 3GB of RAM, a Snapdragon 810 chip, two quad-core chips (1.55 GHz and 2.0 GHz) , and a 3,450 mAh battery are great additions.

It has more than enough to get you through the day, even if you’re using it quite regularly. A day and a half is a decent estimate for normal use, two days tops if you’re relying on Doze heavily.

The camera quality is relatively the same as it is on the Nexus 5X. A larger screen is nicer to look at but as a rule, there’s little difference between the two.

Nexus 6P camera

The colours are more vibrant on both cameras meaning it’s great for landscape shots but the limitations of Google Camera – one designed for casual use – means you’ll likely move to a more advanced app if you want better shots.

The front-facing camera is better quality which is handy for high quality video calls or selfies.

Nexus 6P photos
1 / 6
  • Nexus 6P photos

  • Nexus 6P photos

  • Nexus 6P photos

  • Nexus 6P photos

  • Nexus 6P photos

  • Nexus 6P photos

Should you buy one?

Yes, you’re paying more for a device since it’s unlocked but what you’re getting is one of the best Android experiences out there.

There will be some who will prefer the likes of Samsung or HTC’s version but with 32GB being the minimum space requirement, you’re already getting a fantastic phone.

This is the standard Google has set itself for its devices and if it continues it, it’s really going to show the world what Android can do.

Pros
- Fantastic hardware
- Premium design and easy to hold.
- Stock Android is simple and to the point.

Cons
- No real change in camera quality compared to 5X.
- Expensive entry point.

The Nexus 6P costs €649 (32GB unlocked) and is available on Google Store.

Read: Is the Nexus 5X Google’s return to form in the smartphone market? >

Read: You might not think it but Wikipedia is 15 years old now >

Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone...
A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

Close
14 Comments
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute JohnAbbs
    Favourite JohnAbbs
    Report
    Oct 24th 2015, 1:03 PM

    Hailo’s message to Uber:……….. Fc*k Off we don’t wan’t competition.

    203
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute MAN UTD IRISH REDS
    Favourite MAN UTD IRISH REDS
    Report
    Oct 24th 2015, 1:39 PM

    Hailo are supposed to be in trouble over spending and no investment so uber def spells trouble for them

    59
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute RoN
    Favourite RoN
    Report
    Oct 24th 2015, 12:09 PM

    The journal will literally use any opportunity to mention the gay marriage referendum. Move on.

    118
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Carmo Vanderval
    Favourite Carmo Vanderval
    Report
    Oct 24th 2015, 12:55 PM

    Gay people can get married now? Gosh, that must annoy certain types of people.

    64
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Fiona deFreyne
    Favourite Fiona deFreyne
    Report
    Oct 24th 2015, 12:55 PM

    I had not noticed the passing reference to the free taxi service to the polling booths for the same sex marriage equality referendum until you drew it to my attention, RoN.

    Clearly you would have preferred RoN to have had the service restricted to the opponents of same sex civil marriage.

    Thank you for highlighting the Marriage Equality Referendum passed by more than 68% of those who voted.

    This topic deserves another separate article so that RoN can get his full rant on.

    28
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute James Stratford
    Favourite James Stratford
    Report
    Oct 24th 2015, 2:03 PM

    When will companies and businesses in all industries cop on that they are not in any way simply entitled to your business? If they are out flanked by someone with an innovative idea, the onus is on them to either catch up or offer more appealing innovative ideas of their own.

    79
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Kamil
    Favourite Kamil
    Report
    Oct 24th 2015, 3:30 PM

    In theory yes but it seems that the playing field isn’t level. Essentially they are both providing the same service but uber drivers are not vetted or regulated in any way and their costs are lower, for example insurance. Also, I don’t think uber drivers are taxed.

    48
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Ronan Hourican
    Favourite Ronan Hourican
    Report
    Oct 24th 2015, 12:35 PM

    Harry Potters real?

    58
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Carmo Vanderval
    Favourite Carmo Vanderval
    Report
    Oct 24th 2015, 12:58 PM

    No, just a fictional character who looks a bit like you.

    69
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul McCabe
    Favourite Paul McCabe
    Report
    Oct 24th 2015, 1:37 PM

    Taxi service in Atlanta is dreadful, everyone i know uses uber and they rave about its convenience, low cost etc. I personally have only used it once and it was bang on, great idea, well executed.

    52
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Sean
    Favourite Sean
    Report
    Oct 24th 2015, 3:47 PM

    Uber is incredible

    24
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute John Joseph McDermott
    Favourite John Joseph McDermott
    Report
    Oct 24th 2015, 11:50 PM

    Ireland is not Atlanta.
    We dont need Uber destroying the jobs of licensed,regulated taxi drivers.
    The industry is overcrowded as it is.
    They are a scourge on the face of the earth.
    The authorities have a responsibility to control this form of unbridled capitalism.
    Can we all do part time work as civil servants/teachers/Gardai etc. and put them out of work.?
    Not likely.

    15
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Kevin Boland
    Favourite Kevin Boland
    Report
    Oct 24th 2015, 5:42 PM

    I hope that Uber is launched in its full form in Ireland, allowing those with a suitable car and a clean criminal background check to apply.

    I used ubers multiple times in San Diego this summer and the system works brilliantly and is very cost effective too

    12
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Keith Redmond
    Favourite Keith Redmond
    Report
    Oct 24th 2015, 4:27 PM

    No Hailo app for windowsphone…but there is an Uber app, so hailo for f**k off

    9
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Michael Sands
    Favourite Michael Sands
    Report
    Oct 24th 2015, 12:59 PM

    In the U.S. UBER HAS STARTED DOING LOGISTICS NOW, will Hailo start doing the Ambulance service now???

    6
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Alien8
    Favourite Alien8
    Report
    Oct 24th 2015, 1:13 PM

    we only have 12 ambulances in Dublin and these are fully stretched at this time of year… if you need to get to a hospital and a DFB ambulance will be another hour, why not get help?

    30
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Michael Sands
    Favourite Michael Sands
    Report
    Oct 24th 2015, 2:32 PM

    I can see it happening with the TiSA Agreement privatised hospitals and ambulances, Uber is involved with logistics now. So god knows what the future will bring thanks to TTIP and the Trade in Services Agreement.
    Many things are run down in order to change them and the excuse is cost but getting private firms to run things always costs more as the NHS model has shown and the same is starting to happen here now…
    Help is one thing but cost will be another???

    12
    See 1 more reply ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute John Joseph McDermott
    Favourite John Joseph McDermott
    Report
    Oct 25th 2015, 4:35 PM

    Given the wages of ambulance drivers, I am sure the government would love it.!

    2
Submit a report
Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
Thank you for the feedback
Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.
JournalTv
News in 60 seconds