I never expected Pixels to endure this long, but I’m thrilled it has.

As I reflect on my own journey, I recall that writing about Android was once a novelty prior to its widespread popularity. Despite the passage of time, we’re still discussing Google phones with a surprising positivity, to say the least. The brand-new Stadia is shaping up to be yet another gem in Google’s increasingly refined portfolio.

I’m delighted to admit that I opted out of the Nexus era; instead, I luxuriated in the vibrant world of Samsung’s Galaxy S, LG’s G, and HUAWEI’s P series smartphones. Having sidestepped the tribulations of unreliable Nexus battery life, excessive heat, and boot loop woes, I had previously been fortunate enough to study these issues from a safe distance. It’s surprising that Google took so long to sever ties with the Nexus program, given the disappointing performance of the associated hardware platforms. Despite this, Nexus enthusiasts largely approve of the range, acknowledging that it has provided good value for money, appearing content to take the rough with the smooth.

GRAYING HAIRS MAY ALSO DRAW PARALLELS TO GOOGLE’S SHORT-LIVED STEWARDSHIP OF MOTOROLA IN THE EARLY 2010S, WHEN THE TECHNOLOGY GIANT TRIED AND FAILED TO REVITALIZE THE ONCE-THRIVING MOBILE PHONE BRAND. While acquiring Motorola primarily for its patents and inheriting in-progress products may not evoke nostalgia for most, the Google-led Moto X series will undoubtedly remain a cherished memory for many enthusiasts. Prior to Google’s acquisition by Lenovo in 2014, we can credit the Moto G released in 2013 with revitalizing the market for affordable smartphones, paving the way for subsequent innovations.

Google’s aspirations for Nexus weren’t fully met, prompting the company to explore alternative hardware collaborations that had varying degrees of success, if one could even call it that. The certification process for budget-friendly phones and high-end flagships with Google Play versions had previously ensured a seamless Android experience across devices from manufacturers like Samsung, HTC, and others before being discontinued. However who remembers these?

Despite initial skepticism, surprisingly few of Google’s early smartphone endeavors yielded pure gold, with many predicting that a Google-branded phone would likely fail to impress. As it transpired, Google’s early efforts remained haphazardly inconsistent. While the early Pixel collection was commendable in many respects, it wasn’t without its flaws – specifically, the Pixel 2 XL’s subpar display and the Pixel 3’s disappointing battery performance. Prior to the widespread availability of online support communities and official repair resources, overcoming boot loops or seeking professional assistance was a daunting task, particularly for those lacking direct access to international expertise. Despite this, Google managed to secure significant wins as it navigated the downturns. Fewer companies would have survived without a financial safety net; indeed, some larger entities required assistance.

Some prominent manufacturers that were instrumental in driving the early growth of the smartphone industry remain major players today. After consistently dwindling market share, BlackBerry, HTC, and LG eventually exited the competitive landscape. Long forgotten giants, Motorola, Nokia, and Sony now merely linger in the shadow of their former glories.

In a fiercely competitive market, where margins are razor-thin, companies struggle to gain traction, with even the most determined underdogs finding it challenging to make significant inroads, as consumers remain fiercely loyal to established brands like Apple and Samsung. And yet, Google’s Pixel series has evolved significantly since its inception, now surpassing its early achievements in many ways. While few are privy to the exact figures on Google’s profits or losses from its hardware endeavors, it is undeniable that as the Android gatekeeper, the company has enjoyed a significant advantage over others in this space.

After a decade of perseverance, Google is thrilled to have overcome the hardware hurdles that had threatened to derail its progress just a few years ago. Despite everything, more firms start than would ever begin. The remarkable durability of Google’s Pixel vision, comprising cutting-edge software and exceptional photography capabilities, is a testament to its resilience across nine generational iterations, even navigating the tumultuous Nexus era and other abandoned projects with aplomb.

Having experienced the Google Pixel 4 series, I’m convinced that the Pixel formula is irreplaceable once you’ve savored its excellence. Following a prolonged tenure with Huawei’s flagship camera phones, I seamlessly transitioned to the Pixel 6 Pro before upgrading to the Pixel 7 Pro. The harmonious blend of visual creativity and user-friendly programming proved too enticing to resist.

Despite this, I’m not entirely convinced, primarily because I’m not deeply embedded within Google’s universe. After using the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra for 12 months, I must admit that Google still has opportunities to enhance its offerings in terms of design, battery life, and raw processing power. Despite initial reservations, the Pixel 8 Pro has proved to be a reliable camera companion and well-rounded smartphone over the better part of a year. Without these features, I find it challenging to navigate the experience comfortably. The latest breakthroughs in artificial intelligence truly are the icing on an already impressive cake, offering a sweet and satisfying conclusion to the technological advancements that have been building momentum over time.

In a tech landscape lacking genuine innovation, the Pixel series remains committed to pushing boundaries, and I’m already eyeing the Pixel 9 Pro as my potential next daily companion. While anticipation runs high for Google’s next flagship phone, I’m eager to lay hands on an ultra-compact yet thoroughly successful device that would epitomize years of innovative endeavor.