What is it?

A new and improved smartphone from Google developed to supersede the Nexus which has stagnated somewhat in recent years.

Good Points?

The design is strikingly simple with a minimalist, button-less front face. Its glass and metal case offers a slick look and feel. Incorporating a touch sensor on the back allows for better control and operation when using a single hand.

A non-protruding camera on the rear means you can easily type while the phone is resting on a flat surface without any annoying rocking motion.

The Google Assistant app is developing well with everything you’d expect and a few more such as its penchant for telling jokes, reading you poems and showing off the latest trending cat videos.

Bad points?

The battery life is average at best. A tad more research into potential new features could have made this device a real showstopper.

The Pixel does a great job of competing with the features of the iPhone but unlike its predecessor the Nexus is similarly priced to Apple’s latest models. This will leave many people scratching their heads as to why they would abandon something they know for a newcomer.

Best for ...

Those looking for something different to thrust into the faces of friends when snapping selfies on nights out or tech fans for whom money is no object when it comes to owning the latest technology. The simple user interface would also be ideal for anyone getting their first smartphone.

Avoid if ...

You have an iPhone 6 or later as there is nothing here you are missing.

Score: 9/10.

Google Pixel Phone, £649.99 (google.com)