Some lines of code in a beta of Google's software refer to a "Pixel Stand". And that code says that if you allow your phone to recognise the Pixel Stand as a trusted dock that you'll be able to use the Google Assistant even when your phone is locked. In other words, the dock will be a smart speaker powered by the Google Pixel 3 XL.
With smartspeakers and digital concierge devices all the rage, it makes sense to take advantage of the portable computing power in a smartphone. For many people the Pixel Stand will give them access to the Google Assistant while they're at home and away. Assuming the Pixel Stand is cheaper than a Google Home device, this could be a clever way for Google to sneak their smart speaker tech into your home.
Along with the Pixel Stand, more images of the new smartphone have been leaked showing a notch at the top of the display that's is narrower and deeper than the notch on the iPhone X. '
Based on leaked images, revealed on XDA Forums , the latest member of the Pixel family will retain a single rear camera with two cameras on the front face.
Google released the first two Pixels in late October. So it's a fair bet they'll do the same with the Pixel XL 3.
Originally published in Lifehacker Australia on 31 July 2018: https://www.lifehacker.com.au/2018/07/google-pixel-3-xl-wants-to-be-your-smartspeaker/