Today we will talk about Android. More precisely, about the best representative of this platform - Nexus. You should pay attention to these devices if you want a beautiful Android "out of the box" without garbage and lags. Last fall, my "apple" soul wanted adventure, and I exchanged iPhone for Nexus 6P for six months. I'm talking about my impressions and why if you take a smartphone on Android, then only Nexus.
The Google Nexus is a series of Android mobile smartphones, tablets and media devices produced by Google in collaboration with several hardware OEMs. The devices in the Nexus series are free of carrier modifications and use unmodified Android apps and skins. Nexus devices are the first to receive OS updates. As of May 2016, the newest devices in the series are the Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P smartphones, introduced simultaneously in September 2015 and created by Google in collaboration with LG Electronics and Huawei, respectively.
"Wikipedia"
Reason 1: Android in its original form
Teudi Com / flickr.comThe main reason to buy a Nexus smartphone is stock Android. It is also called clean or naked, the main thing is that it is exactly what Google intended it to be. I will not say that everyone should like it, without exception, but this is definitely the ideal to strive for. Since Android 5.0, Google has embraced the Material Design philosophy. On the one hand, this is a flat interface that is now fashionable, on the other, beautiful animation, attention to detail and no clutter. That rare case when Android can be used right out of the box without resorting to launchers, themes and other trash.
In Nexus devices, the system is exclusively handled by Google, so there is no place for unnecessary pre-installed applications and clumsy shells that manufacturers diligently put into their devices. This is purely Google's vision of what the system should be, both visually and functionally. With a Nexus smartphone, you get the right experience with operating systems that are not warped by third-party developers.
Reason 2: Always up to date version of Android
Mobil Yaşam / flickr.com Nexus owners always have the most current version of Android. There are no intermediaries between users and Google, which means that all new chips immediately fly to their devices without the censorship of third-party manufacturers. The main thing is that these updates make sense: the company is constantly adding new features, improving the autonomy and speed of devices.
At the same time, I did not notice much difference between Android 5.0 and 6.0 in Samsung Galaxy S6, only the number in the settings has changed. Most of the functions are cut out and replaced with something of their own, often useless. Material Design is hidden under a thick layer of shell, which you immediately want to cover with some theme or launcher. The new version of the system has to wait for months, because the developers take time to change the stock Android.
Reason 3: exclusive Nexus chips
androidos.in Aside from the stock operating system, which is a feature in itself, Nexus devices have some advantages over other Android devices. For example, recently the owners of "googlephones" were able to upload an unlimited number of photos and videos without compression to Google Photos.
Also, Nexus smartphones have a proprietary Google dialer, which many Android users would not mind getting. In addition to a convenient and well-thought-out interface, it has such a useful function as "Google Caller ID". With its help, the phone will tell you who is calling you, even if you do not have this contact. For example, if the number belongs to some organization, you will see its name and address on the screen. In addition, you can write the name of a company (for example, a movie theater) right in the Phone application and immediately call without even knowing its number. A handy feature available only to owners of Nexus smartphones. Recently, Google's branded dialer was made public by mistake, but the oversight was quickly fixed.
In early June, Google CEO Sundar Pichai shared his vision for the future of the Nexus line. Apparently, the company plans to make "Google phones" a more massive product, and not just a geek gadget. They promise more exclusive features and "more self-confident in design" devices. Well, let's wait until autumn and find out what the "corporation of good" is preparing for us.
Reason 4: no garbage or ads
portal gda / flickr.com When buying a smartphone, for example, Huawei or LG, be prepared to get a lot of pre-installed applications, both branded and third-party ones like Facebook, office suite from Microsoft or cloud storage OneDrive. You cannot delete them, even if they are not needed and you will never use them. All these services are literally imposed on the owner of a smartphone, and often you cannot get rid of them with the "Trash" folder. You have to kill several hours to remove all unnecessary things, install a normal launcher, install the necessary applications. All this instead of taking a new device out of the box and just starting to use it.
The very minimum is installed in Nexus devices, and these are exclusively Google services. No trash, the system is clean and you are free to customize it however you like.
Why is this happening? It's very simple: the program doesn't have to make money, especially in the short term. It doesn't even have to be profitable. Google's main income is selling ads in search, which does not overlap with the Nexus line in any way. The devices are selling well - great, maybe even advertising revenue will grow. Selling poorly? This will not affect advertising in any way. Google does not stuff its gadgets with third-party services and applications to make money on it. The result is self-contained devices for people who prefer Google services, and nothing more.
Reason 5: optimization is everything
The Trendz Journal / flickr.com As you already understood, the main feature of the Nexus line is software. This applies not only to new functions, but also to competent optimization. Recall at least the legendary Nexus 5. At the start, it had a very weak camera, which shot a little better than a sneaker. But with the next update, Google worked a miracle: the smartphone received almost the best camera on the market. Nexus devices don't even need to have top-end hardware and gigabytes of RAM for everything to work perfectly. The system is not overloaded with crooked shells and garbage, everything works smoothly, without a hint of lags. In this regard, the Nexus 6P reminded me of the iPhone: I could use the smartphone right out of the box, while it did not give me any problems - just the pleasure of working with the device.
Underwater rocks
Masuk Sarker Batista / flickr.com Nexus was originally conceived as a developer tool and a geek's choice. Inexpensive devices with mid-range hardware, but the current version of Android. Two or three years ago, there would have been a sixth reason here - the price. But at some point, Google decided to make the Nexus line more popular and widespread, with top-end hardware and an attractive design. Naturally, the price went up, which not everyone liked. On the other hand, not only geeks have started buying Nexus, but also ordinary people who want a stylish device with the right Android. The strategy is correct, and Google continues to move in this direction, but so far people prefer to buy an iPhone or something popular like the Galaxy S7 or some Chinese Meizu.
This leads to the following difficulties, which are especially relevant in our country:
- Manufacturers of Nexus devices change periodically, which is why it is not always possible to buy a smartphone or tablet officially in Russia. So it was with the Nexus 6 from Motorola, it happened with the proprietary Pixel C tablet from Google. As a result, you either have to order a device from America, or overpay in a local online store. This option will not suit everyone.
- Selling such smartphones is quite difficult, and if successful, it is hardly profitable. In Russia, the Nexus line is poorly distributed, many have not even heard of it. As a result, such devices remain for those who are in the subject, for geeks.
What is the bottom line
Kārlis Dambrāns / flickr.com And yet, if iOS does not suit you and you want to try Android, I advise you to take the Nexus. These devices will give the right experience with this platform, positive emotions, not a headache. I hope that in the future we will see the Pixel Phone - a smartphone made exclusively by Google, without intermediaries. Then we will get a balanced device with software optimized for a specific hardware. It will be a real competitor to the iPhone and a benchmark for other manufacturers.
Today Google has introduced long-awaited new items and updates. Among them - the new traditional Nexus 6, made specifically for the new version of Android; she is the most - Android 5.0 "Chupa-chups"; a Nexus 9 tablet; and a small Nexus Player for gaming and video streaming. Read more about the new products below.
Google's newest smartphone, the Nexus 6, is the latest in a line of smartphones that the company is releasing specifically to showcase the new capabilities of Android. This is the largest nexus Google has presented so far: the smartphone has a 6-inch screen, which is larger than the iPhone 6 Plus and Galaxy Note 4. Like the Note 4, the Google Nexus 6 uses a Quad HD display, which guarantees a high and crisp text and image quality on the phone, despite its large (or even gigantic) size. The phone is powered by a Snapdragon 805 processor, a 13MP rear camera and a 2MP front camera, a 3220mAh battery and dual front-facing speakers. Optionally, the smartphone is equipped with 32 or 64 GB of internal memory, you can also choose between white or blue colors.
Nexus phones have always been slightly modified versions of existing smartphones. The Nexus 5, for example, is based on the LG G2, and there are no surprises with the Nexus 6 either: it's Motorola's updated Moto X. Like the Moto X, the Nexus 6 features a metal bezel around the outside, a circular flash ring and an embossed Motorola logo. There's nothing wrong with that: the Moto X is far from the worst phone, so the more the Nexus 6 takes from it, the better.
The Nexus 6 is powered by Android 5.0 Lollipop. This was the first time this iteration of Google's mobile operating system came with a new design language, and not much has changed since then - the same simple shapes. Lollipop includes a battery saving feature that will extend the life of a dying smartphone by up to 90 minutes.
The Nexus 6 will be available for pre-order on October 29th and will hit stores in early November. Cost without contract - $ 649.
In addition to the Nexus 6, Google introduced the Nexus 9 tablet. This is the second large tablet in the nexus line, as Google tried to enter the market with the Nexus 10 almost two years ago. HTC was involved in the production of the tablet. The tablet will also come pre-loaded with Android 5.0 and will be available for pre-order on October 17th. In stores - November 3. The Nexus 9 is available in black or white and in three configurations: 16GB for $ 399, 32GB for $ 479, 32GB + LTE for $ 599.
Like most HTC products, the Nexus 9 boasts nice metal accents and an 8.9-inch QXGA display (2048x1536). The aspect ratio of the screen is 4: 3. Separately, Google focuses on the 64-bit processor, which is new for the Nexus series products. More specifically, the Nvidia Tegra K1 chipset is to blame. Battery life is 9 hours, memory is 2 GB. The company itself says the tablet's form factor is "small enough to hold comfortably in one hand, but large enough to work with." You can even make the Nexus 9 look like a laptop by attaching a magnetic keyboard to it (a stone in Microsoft's Surface garden).
1. Huawei P9
Price: 39,990 - 49,990 rubles
P9 is the flagship model in the line of smartphones of this manufacturer from China. A thin metal body and a front panel completely covered with a protective 2.5D-Corning Gorilla Glass 4 glass - all these external signs make this smartphone a truly premium device. But what is actually inside? What is hidden behind the beautiful outer shell?
And here's what: under the protective aluminosilicate glass there is a display with a diagonal of 5.2 inches and a Full HD resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. Matrix type - IPS-NEO. The gadget is powered by a non-removable lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 3 Ampere-hours. At the bottom, in the center of the device, there is a micro-USB Type-C connector.
The phone is equipped with a dual 12-megapixel sensor module of the main camera, which, according to Huawei marketers, was developed jointly with Leica engineers, which in their opinion should instill in the heart of every amateur photographer the confidence that the gadget in their hands is a really high-quality camera phone.
Why does he need two cameras? The fact is that the first module of the main camera captures a color image, and the second - a monochrome one. Then the data obtained in this way is programmatically combined into one image.
This shooting technology improves the ability of the digital matrix to capture almost the entire spectrum of colors and shades without distortion, as well as accurately reproduce the natural level of brightness of the environment, i.e. increases the dynamic range of the main camera.
In addition, dual optics filter out noise better, which improves the overall quality of shooting, which is important if it is done in low light conditions.
As for its hardware, the "heart" of the smartphone is the proprietary 8-core HiSilicon Kirin 955 processor of its own design by Huawei. To function "heart" help: 2 GB "RAM" (there are also versions with DDR-memory of 4 GB), as well as an integrated graphics accelerator Mali-T880 MP4. There is the possibility of expanding the internal memory using a microSD card up to 128 GB.
Verdict: productive and quite easy to use, excellent photo and video shooting capabilities, reasonable price.
2. Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge
Price: 59,990 rubles
We can say with confidence that Samsung's management got to the point by releasing this smartphone to the market. Why? The thing is, the phone has a stunning curved screen enclosed in an elegant metal body. The diagonal of the Quad HD display is 5.5 inches, and the matrix type is Super AMOLED.
Needless to say, whatever one may say, but this gadget in all respects is a premium flagship that looks great, fits perfectly in the hand and, importantly, works smartly thanks to the presence of the 8-core Exynos 8890 chipset and the MALI T880 MP12 graphics coprocessor.
And what about the resources of the system? Here, too, everything is in order: 4 GB of "RAM" on board and 32 GB of built-in memory provide the operating system, as well as a great variety of even the most demanding programs, sufficient room for "maneuver".
At the discretion of the user, the built-in memory can be increased by inserting a microSD card into the corresponding slot, and not more than 200 GB in volume.
As for the parameters of the Galaxy S7 Edge in terms of the autonomy of the device, the capacity of its battery is 3600 mAh. Is it a lot or a little? This question, exactly like the answer to it, is a mystery covered with a veil of ambiguity, because everything depends on the user. However, according to the engineers of the manufacturer, the battery will last for two days of intensive work.
Here's another thing, Samsung has finally heeded the complaints of its consumers: the S7 Edge is "armed" with the IP68 standard, i.e. now it is waterproof and dustproof.
In addition, the phone supports two built-in wireless battery charging standards, so you now have a choice of how to bring your phone to life.
And yes, if we compare the S7 Edge with its predecessor - S6, then the main camera here has diminished in "weight", having decreased from 16 to 12 megapixels.
Does this affect the quality of photo and video shooting? On the contrary, the corresponding performance of the S7 Edge is even better than that of its predecessor. For example, the possibilities of high-quality shooting in low-light conditions (for example, in the evening) have increased here.
Verdict: Perhaps, currently, it is one of the best flagship smartphones on the market.
3. HTC 10
Price: 55,000 rubles
This all-metal cute with laconic lines is, if not a masterpiece, then definitely an outstanding smartphone by the standards of what the company has produced in recent years.
It has a fairly large 5.2-inch Super LCD screen with a Quad HD resolution of 2560x1440 pixels, as well as the most productive Qualcomm chipset to date - a 4-core Snapdragon 820 processor. The Adreno 530 module is responsible for the graphics. "Is" hidden "in an aluminum case, and the top is" covered "by Corning Gorilla Glass 4.
The volume is constant, i.e. built-in memory - 32 or 64 GB with the possibility of increasing it by 2 GB via a microSD card. This smartphone has 4 GB of DDR-memory ("RAM").
Among other "highlights" - a smart fingerprint scanner of an oblong-oval shape. It replaced the “Home” touch button, traditional for this manufacturer, which the company's engineers, up to that time, as usual, placed in the center under the screen.
At the same time, the Taiwanese stint on the wireless charging module, but even without it, the new flagship works a little more than a day without recharging, and then it's up to the good old guy, i.e. behind a charger, or a new small one - a USB Type-C cable.
What about the HTC 10's photo talent? Everything is not so simple here: to be honest, its 12-megapixel main camera is inferior in photography quality to other flagships, but with the front module the situation is exactly the opposite.
The fact is that this smartphone is the first on the market in which the optical stabilization function is present not only in the main camera, but also in the selfie camera. As a result - excellent selfies.
Verdict: an excellent hard worker in a stylish case, but with mediocre autonomy.
4. LG G5 (G5 SE)
Price:50,000 rubles
An unusual flagship in all respects, because it is modular. Firstly, due to certain factors, it was created specifically for the Russian market, because this is, in fact, a simplified, cheaper version of the device that is sold in the USA and the EU.
Secondly, the distinguishing feature of this model from its “full-fledged version” is the presence of a removable plastic panel at the bottom of the device, which unambiguously makes it related to gadgets from the middle price segment.
Together with this socket, a removable battery is removed from the case, which is actually quite practical. This is probably the latest top-end Android smartphone with a "removable battery".
In addition, instead of the bottom panel, you can connect various modules to the smartphone: the first is a unit with an additional battery, as well as control buttons for the front and main camera (LG Cam Plus), or the second is a music converter (LG Hi-Fi Plus).
Well, then the already standard true features of any flagship smartphone: an all-metal body, a 5.3-inch IPS-screen with an impressive Quad HD-resolution 2560x1440, a powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 652 processor, a minimum of 32 GB of internal memory and 2 GB of RAM. The permanent memory can be expanded by using a microSD card.
LG G5 SE is another smartphone with a dual main camera module. The second lens is needed here for shooting wide-angle photos with an impressive 135-degree field of view, which will be very useful, for example, during panoramic shooting of an urban landscape or a beautiful flood meadow somewhere in the bosom of Mother Nature.
Perhaps the main "highlight" of this smartphone is at the same time its drawback: the removable plastic panel at the bottom of the device completely deprives the user of the feeling, if you like, of the solidity of the gadget, because, for example, if you press on this very panel, it wobbles slightly.
Verdict: the modular design sets it apart from the competition, but otherwise it is no worse or better than others.
5. Google Nexus 5X
Price:34,990 - 37,990 rubles
Nexus 5X is a "plastic flagship" at the price of a popular "average". The gadget is a representative of the next generation of the line of smartphones under the Google brand. By the way, this is an old experiment in which Google from time to time attracts partners "on the side" as manufacturers of devices of this family. If we talk about this, the "younger" model in the line, then this time LG has "lit up" in this capacity.
In view of the fact that the development and subsequent fine-tuning of both the smartphone and the OS it runs on was actually the same company, this particular "state employee" is the best Android smartphone. In addition, gadgets of the Nexus series have always stood out against the background of competitors by the presence of the most recent version of the "operating system" from Google.
Describing the exterior of the Nexus 5X, it can be noted that all the most interesting about it is inside, which cannot be said about any other flagship smartphone. Why is this so? The fact is that this phone looks, in general, rather nondescript and utilitarian. I would even say, succinctly and without any special frills. This is especially striking if a black model has fallen into your hands (it looks much brighter and livelier in white or "mint" color).
The front surface is completely covered with Gorilla Glass 3, which has two transverse slots at the top and bottom of the screen, which stretch almost the entire width of the device. The speakers are "recessed" in them.
The basis of the hardware platform is the latest version of the 6-core Snapdragon 808 processor, in which engineers have finally solved the problem of overheating.
The gadget is equipped with a 5.2-inch IPS-screen with Full HD-resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The type of matrix is IPS, which is not ideal, of course, but the technologies do not stand still, so for the money it is excellent. There is a fingerprint scanner on the back.
The RAM here is 2 GB, and the built-in memory is 16 or 32 GB. There is no memory card slot, which is, in general, traditional for the entire Nexus line.
Other features: in addition to the audio-out and jacks for one more speaker, a new-fashioned USB Type-C connector is located on the bottom edge of the device (for fast charging, the battery is charged by a third in 15 minutes).
The battery capacity is 2700 mAh, while the gadget has lost the wireless charging function, which was present in its predecessor. The battery charge lasts for 7-8 hours of active work.
A 12.3-megapixel sensor is used as the main camera module, which, together with the software, makes the Nexus 5X one of the best in its class.
Verdict: good smartphone, but looks cheap in a budget.
6. Google Nexus 6P
Price:50,000 rubles
Nexus 6P is the "big brother" of the Nexus 5X, the production of which was entrusted to the Chinese Huawei, so it got a lot of "goodies" typical of the flagships of this Chinese company.
The following elements can be confidently ranked among such "nishtyaks": a fully metal case (before that absolutely all Nexus smartphones were plastic), a sensitive fingerprint scanner, a 5.7-inch Quad HD AMOLED screen with a resolution of 2560x1440, a powerful Qualcomm 810 processor and video adapter Adreno 430, 128 GB of built-in memory in the most expensive configuration and 3 GB of "RAM".
There is no microSD slot, but it is not needed, given the impressive amount of permanent memory. The battery capacity is 3450 mAh, which, in combination with the AMOLED matrix and a well-optimized OS, provides him with a day of work in a mode of rather active use. A USB type-C connector is also present here.
The main camera of 12.3 megapixels pleases with the presence of laser autofocus and dual LED flash. Remarkably, the 8-megapixel front camera is also equipped with autofocus.
In addition, amateur photographers will be encouraged by the presence of EiS - the function of electronic image stabilization, as well as a slow-motion mode at a speed of 240 frames per second.
Verdict: stylish design, excellent matrix (screen), high performance and a sensitive fingerprint scanner, however, it is heavy in every sense: heavier and more expensive than competitors.
At the very beginning of the journey, the line of Nexus devices from Google was nothing more than an experiment - the company "probed the waters", trying to release the device under its own brand, attracting partners as manufacturers for this. At some point, the Nexus turned out to be very attractive (Google Nexus 4), for excellent performance Google asked for less than the rest of the company. Then the next stage came - when the Nexus line simply turned into more or less balanced against the background of other smartphones (Google Nexus 5, 6), and the priority of the appearance of new versions of Android on the devices of the series remained as the main feature. Smartphones Google Nexus 5X and 6P - just from this generation, which is directly indicated in the model names. Quite good, sturdy devices without pronounced flaws and with one important advantage over other devices - the fresh version of Android 6.0 Marshmallow OS.
In this short article, I will briefly talk about both smartphones, give their characteristics and share my opinion on the models.
- Body Materials: Anodized Aviation Aluminum, Glass
- Platform: Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 (Chipset Version 2.1)
- Processor: eight-core, 64-bit, 4 cores Cortex-A53 at a frequency of 1.55 GHz and 4 cores Cortex-A57 at a frequency of 2 GHz
- Graphics: Adreno 430
- RAM: 3 GB (LPDDR4)
- Storage memory: 32/64/128 GB
- Memory card slot: no
- Screen: AMOLED (Samsung), diagonal 5.7 ", resolution 2560x1440 pixels, ppi 518, automatic adjustment of the backlight level, protective glass Gorilla Glass 4
- Front camera: 8 MP without autofocus, pixel size 1.4 nm, f / 2.4
- Battery: 3450mAh
- Dimensions: 159.3 x 77.8 x 7.3 mm
- Weight: 178 grams
A more expensive smartphone in the line of two devices is replacing the Google Nexus 6. If you close your eyes to different manufacturers and look at the dry characteristics, without additional chips, it turns out that there is a lot in common between the Nexus 6 and 6P. However, this is logical, the new model is essentially a neat improvement of the previous one, this is not a new generation, but an "upgrade". I will not describe the design, it is very subjective, I will only say that thanks to the use of aluminum, the smartphone should be in reality pleasant and at the same time practical. The body is entirely made of metal, with the exception of the glass front panel.
The use of a screen based on an AMOLED matrix is probably not the best news for many, but the latest generations of these matrices from Samsung are constantly being improved, so these are not the same "eye-catching" colors without the possibility of customization, as a couple of years ago. Ultimately, you need to look at the device live in order to understand how well the screen is set up and how good the matrix itself is. High resolution is good, for most people FullHD would be enough, but WQHD is enough for everyone.
The platform raises questions. Yes, a fresh version of Snapdragon 810 is used here, the so-called revision 2.1, where overheating problems, in particular, are solved. But that doesn't mean that the Nexus 6P won't have any of the issues typical of the HTC One M9 and Sony Xperia Z3 Plus. The amount of RAM is sufficient, built-in memory to choose from from 32 to 128 GB. There is no memory card slot, because this is a Nexus.
Particular emphasis on the presentation of the Nexus 6P was placed on cameras, in particular on the main 12.3 megapixel camera with 1.55 nm dot size, laser focusing and f / 2.0. On paper and according to official test shots, the camera seems to be very decent, except for optical stabilization, but, as practice shows, even without OIS, the camera can produce good results in different conditions. The camera has an Auto HDR + mode. The front camera has a resolution of 8 MP.
Another feature is a fingerprint scanner on the back of the device. For the United States, the Android Pay service will be tied to the scanner, for the rest it is just a convenient option to lock the device using a fingerprint, without entering codes.
For the Nexus 6P, the Android Sensor Hub system is implemented, which, for example, partially wakes up the screen and displays notifications and time on it at the moment when you just pick up your smartphone, but do not touch the power key or the fingerprint scanner. A similar feature has already been implemented by Motorola, and in the good old days it was present in a slightly different form on Nokia smartphones.
On sale the device will be presented in three colors - white, silver and black. The cost is as follows:
- Google Nexus 6P 32GB - $ 499
- Google Nexus 6P 64GB - $ 549
- Google Nexus 6P 128GB - $ 649
The new Nexus 6P can hardly be called an absolute flagship. Yes, there is a high-resolution screen, fast charging (thanks to the Snapdragon 810 platform), 128 GB of internal memory if desired, a good (so far "on paper") camera and many other things. At the same time, there is not enough wireless charging, for the camera - an optical stabilization system, a slot for a memory card and two slots for SIM cards so that everyone is happy. Perhaps some of the "Wishlist" from this list will appear in the next generation Nexus smartphone (Nexus 8?), But so far. Huawei and Google have got a solid, solid device at the level of competitors, albeit at a similar price.
- Body materials: plastic, glass
- Operating system: Android 6.0 Marshmallow
- Network: GSM / EDGE, UMTS / HSDPA, LTE Cat.6 (nanoSIM)
- Platform: Qualcomm Snapdragon 808 (MSM8992)
- Processor: Quad-core 1.44 GHz (Cortex-A53) and dual-core 1.8 GHz (Cortex-A57)
- Graphics: Adreno 418
- RAM: 2 GB (LPDDR3)
- Storage memory: 16/32 GB
- Memory card slot: no
- Interfaces: Wi-Fi (ac / b / g / n) Dual-Band, Bluetooth 4.1 (LE), USB type-C (USB 2.0) for charge / synchronization, 3.5 mm for headset
- Screen: IPS LCD, diagonal 5.2 ", resolution 1920x1080 pixels, ppi 423, automatic backlight level control, Gorilla Glass 3 protective glass
- Main camera: 12.3 megapixels, pixel size 1.55 nm, f / 2.0, laser focusing, dual LED flash, video is recorded in 4k
- Front camera: 5 MP without autofocus, pixel size 1.4 nm, f / 2.0
- Navigation: GPS (support A-GPS), GLONASS
- Optional: Nexus Imprint Fingerprint Scanner, Accelerometer, Light Sensor, Proximity Sensor
- Battery: 2700mAh
- Dimensions: 147 x 72.6 x 7.9 mm
- Weight: 136 grams
A simpler and cheaper model is the Nexus 5X from LG. By analogy with the 6P, the new Nexus 5X is a development of the usual "five", which, by the way, was also produced by the Korean company LG. The main materials are plastic and glass front panel. Available in white, black and mint colors. Google Nexus 5X is more compact than the older model, it uses a screen with a diagonal of 5.2 "" and a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels based on an IPS LCD matrix.
Platform - Qualcomm Snapdragon 808, for me, this is a better solution than 810, albeit a fresh revision. RAM 2 GB, built-in - 16 or 32, there is no slot for a memory card.
The main camera, judging by the description, is installed here exactly the same as in the Nexus 6P, literally one to one. Moreover, on the official Google website, even examples of photos from the camera for both models are given exactly the same, apparently someone overlooked. One way or another, the characteristics of the camera should be good.
Like the 6P, there is a fingerprint scanner on the back of the case and, of course, Android 6.0 Marshmallow. I liked the younger model first of all for its dimensions and weight - it is noticeably more compact than the 6P. Again, the Google Nexus 5 was a very successful smartphone, in my opinion: balanced, adequate in price, with a decent camera and acceptable performance. If all that LG has done is to improve the device in all aspects, and “on paper” everything looks exactly like this, then this is good and correct. Actually, this is exactly what a successful device like the Nexus 5 needed.
Common features for the two new smartphones are USB Type-C connector, on-screen touch keys, LTE Cat.6 support, slow-motion shooting (120 frames for 6P and 240 frames for 5X).
The cost of the smartphone is $ 380 for the younger, 16 GB, version.
Both devices are already available for pre-order in the official Google online store and will soon go on sale in the US, UK, Japan, and a few weeks later in several other countries. Russia is not on the list yet.
This time, Google's presentation was even simpler, more expected and more relaxed than last year. One got the feeling that the company was doing an event for geeks and those in the know, organizing everything very simply, I would even say clumsy, and briefly telling already well-known things. At least when it comes to the new Nexus smartphones. The devices themselves are high-quality devices of two different classes. Yes, without any revelations, ultra-low prices or "wow-characteristics", but here it should be remembered that the Nexus line is primarily a platform for a pure Android system, and Google does everything right, providing up-to-date hardware every year to everyone who wants to constantly be with the latest version of Android OS.
Some manufacturers of mobile devices manage to produce smartphones, which in terms of cost belong to the middle class of gadgets, while in terms of their characteristics and quality of work, they can quite claim the flagship segment. One of these is the object of today's article - the Nexus 5 smartphone. We will tell you more about it.
Nexus line
First of all, it should be noted that the device belongs to the Nexus line from Google. This is a series of devices of different formats (in addition to a smartphone, it also contains 2 tablets - 7 and 9), which in terms of their performance compete with some flagships. Some well-known manufacturer (for example, phones - LG, tablets - Asus and HTC) is engaged in the development and production of these gadgets, while the software is supplied by Google. In addition, the devices are highly efficient and responsive. This is achieved through the measures taken to optimize the operation of the gadget.
LG Nexus 5 Smartphone
The device, which we will talk about in this article, is also distinguished by its speed of operation, high performance and a lot of advantages over its competitors. This is achieved both due to the high level of technical equipment of the model, and by the development of high-quality software (which has already been noted above). And the result, as they say, is obvious - the model has been successfully sold for almost 3 years, from the very moment of its launch in 2012. And what is surprising - even now its price is kept at the level of 200-250 dollars. The parameters of the phone still allow us to speak of it as a competitive smartphone for successfully solving numerous daily tasks of the user.
Read about what this device is and how the Nexus 5 (D821) smartphone was able to conquer such a competitive market in our article. In the review, we will present both “dry” information from the technical description of the model, as well as reviews of those who were lucky enough to hold the device in their hands, or even use it for a long period of time.
Appearance
According to the tradition of writing such reviews today, we will start just with the appearance of the device - with what we first see when we pick up our Nexus smartphone. First of all, it should be noted the material from which the case is made - it is black plastic with a matte texture. Due to this, it is pleasant and comfortable to hold the phone in your hands - during use the device does not fall out of your hands. The body of the model is made in one piece, the battery cover cannot be removed, and the SIM card is loaded into a special hole. This led to the fact that no backlash or squeaks were observed in the process of working with the phone.
The shape of the device is similar to 7 - the brand features of this line are visible. The front panel is ribbed, while the back has a smooth shape. On the back, the phone belongs to the well-known series from Google, and the characteristic Nexus inscription on the lid of the device also gives out. In the upper part, you can see the protruding camera eye and the flash under it.
In general, it should be noted that the appearance of the model is not somehow original. From a distance, it resembles the classic "brick" - the form in which numerous Chinese clones of flagship devices are made.
Display
As for the front surface of the phone - its screen, it measures 4.95 inches. Due to this, we can say that the Nexus smartphone belongs to the class of "mid-size" smartphones - this value is optimal for working with the device.
The quality of the picture will please most users - the screen is bright enough (which allows you to work with the phone in the sun), and also has a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. Together with the FullHD technology, this makes the image on the phone with a density of 441 ppi quite rich and clear. The only drawback of the display, which was mentioned in all the reviews of the model, is the slightly faded colors. Compared to the Galaxy S4, the Google Nexus smartphone is unable to convey all the color saturation on its screen. However, this is not so noticeable in the daily operation of the device.
It is also necessary to emphasize the protection of the screen, which is achieved through the use of high-strength glass 3, capable of withstanding impacts, scratches and chips during use.
CPU
According to the official technical information about the model, the Nexus 5 is powered by 4 cores of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor, the frequency of which reaches 2.26 GHz. The operative memory of the device reaches 2 GB. With such indicators, it is not surprising that the smartphone can easily play even the most bulky games from Google Play without delays. Working with the phone menu also does not cause any inconvenience - everything works perfectly quickly.
As for the simultaneous launch of several applications in the background - even then, the LG Nexus 5 16GB (Black) smartphone shows an excellent result in terms of response speed. And in general, if the device is being sold even now, this is another evidence that it has a margin of performance and speed.
Memory
The amount of data that can be recorded on the phone should be written separately. So, unlike many Android devices, the Nexus 5 does not have a slot for an additional memory card. This means that all the memory on the device is limited to the factory standard volume. According to the specifications, there are only two modifications - Nexus for 16 and 32 GB. It is impossible to increase memory, but, however, this should be enough for an ordinary user, even taking into account the download of films or TV series directly to the device.
Camera
Regarding how the camera works on the phone, we could not find any complaints in the reviews. Of course, the phone cannot be photographed at a professional level, so those who buy a Nexus smartphone do not expect it from it. However, the camera on the phone is perfect for taking amateur shots. The reviews repeatedly praise the special HDR technology, the meaning of which is to create several photos, from which the one with the best color balance is “selected”.
If you believe the reviews describing the smartphone LG Nexus 5 (16GB), then it can be argued that this device allows you to take better pictures than iPhone 5. Hearing this for those who regularly use the "nexus" is probably very pleasant.
In addition to the main one, the phone also has a front-facing camera for “selfie” shots. Of course, it doesn't have a flash; and the quality of shooting is much lower. The matrix resolution here reaches 1.2 megapixels - but even this is enough to create quite decent photos.
Battery
An important aspect in any phone review is the battery. It directly affects how long the device will work on a single charge. The “survivability” of the battery is determined by the simplest parameter called “capacity”. The new smartphone Nexus 5 can last up to 2 days of active use without recharging due to a 2300 mAh battery. For comparison: the same iPhone has a 1500-1600 mAh battery, but it works no less due to more optimized consumption. This is worse on Android devices.
Operating system
By the way, since we're talking about the OS, it should be noted that the Nexus 5 comes with a "clean" shell from Google. This means that the manufacturer does not modify the platform in any way, providing the user with the opportunity to deal with the original system that works as quickly and smoothly as possible. As for the version, this is Android 4.4.4, which after launch can be updated to modification 5.1 (current at the time of this writing). In general, the operating system is quite nimble - today it works an order of magnitude faster, and looks better than older versions.
