Pixel 11 Pro XL review: Snappier cameras can’t hide an iterative upgrade
The Pixel 11 Pro XL is described as an iterative upgrade that focuses on minor aesthetic changes and improved camera performance. While the new AI-powered 'Rambler' dictation tool is highlighted as a standout feature, the overall device offers few compelling reasons for existing users to upgrade.
Why it matters
It reflects the broader trend of smartphone market saturation where hardware innovation has slowed, forcing manufacturers to rely on software and AI features to differentiate products.
If you buy the new Pixel 11 Pro, you might have to proactively tell people that you bought the latest phone, unless they are following each and every launch. The main reason is that the Pixel 11 doesn’t look that different from prior models. The main updates to its aesthetics are its new colors, which are admittedly gorgeous, and the addition of a small glowing light on the back of the phone, which has limited use.
The phone arrives with some new Gemini features, but I’m not sure if AI chops are attracting customers to buy new phones these days. In daily use, what you may notice is that the Pixel 11 Pro’s cameras are snappier, and there are more options for you to customize the way your photos look. Otherwise, the Pixel 11 Pro XL feels like the previous-gen phone had a big Pixel Drop update.
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