Google is holding back some of Pixel's features specifically for the phone despite being software-based instead of locked in with its hardware.

Most notably, its Google Assistant will be kept exclusive to Pixel phones for some time. Built-in customer service and unlimited photo/video storage will also be exclusive to the new phone range.

The "Pixel Launcher" UI will also not be making the jump to other Android devices. Upgrades to camera apps will remain exclusive to Pixel phones as well.

Swings and roundabouts

However, phones that update to Android Nougat 7.1 will receive other features, such as Daydream VR functionality and improvements to touchscreen features.

Some of the exclusives are likely being held back to make the Pixel a more enticing package. Unlimited photo/video storage and the new camera which can film in 4K go hand-in-hand, for example.

Google Assistant, meanwhile, will be making its way to other Android devices later. Google has stated that it will be rolling out the feature to as many devices as possible "over the next year".

Google announced its new line of Pixel phones at an event on October 4th. Pre-orders start on October 13th, with prices starting at $649.

[Source: TechCrunch]