In the world of Android, there’s a certain nostalgia that comes with remembering the Nexus series. Many of us still hold a fondness for those devices (and the Google Play edition devices that followed). It’s been almost seven years since the Nexus 6P, and although it had its fair share of issues, there was something special about the combination of hardware and software that made it greater than the sum of its parts.
Now, with the ASUS Zenfone 10 and Google’s Pixel 7 series, I find myself yearning for another supergroup outing that truly showcases the best of what Android has to offer. It may seem odd, considering that Pixel hardware has never been better and ASUS runs nearly stock Android on its devices. But hear me out.
Let’s start with Pixel hardware. Over the years, Google has made significant improvements. The Pixel 7’s hardware is pretty good, although not without its flaws. The Tensor G2 runs hotter than the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, and the camera bar is prone to scratches and dents. Nonetheless, the overall package is impressive, especially considering the price. However, there’s always room for improvement. Imagine a Pixel that charges in under an hour or a device with an ultra-responsive fingerprint scanner.
Pixel hardware, when viewed independently, is not exceptional compared to some of its competitors. Google seems to be aware of this, as evidenced by their experiments with features like the Pixel 4’s Soli radar and the rumored temperature sensor in the upcoming Pixel 8. While these may be interesting ideas, the litmus test for any feature is whether it genuinely enhances the daily lives of potential customers. In this regard, Google has missed the mark. Despite significant advancements, Google still falls short in terms of hardware compared to its competitors.
Then we have the ASUS Zenfone 10, a device that comes packed with numerous extras. From gimbal stabilization to tap-on-back shortcuts and swipe key smart gestures, there’s no shortage of innovative features. Some may even dismiss the headphone jack as a gimmick in the age of wireless audio. Yet, when you take the time to explore and utilize these features, their usefulness becomes apparent. Moreover, the build quality of the Zenfone 10, with its metal and bio-polymer materials, feels more premium and secure in hand compared to the slippery glass of the Pixel. Additionally, the Zenfone 10 charges quickly, saving you time and hassle.
It’s worth noting that recent Pixel phones do feature a Quick Tap gesture on the back, which performs similar functions to the Zenfone. However, it is limited to a single gesture. In contrast, the Zenfone 10 offers more flexibility and customization options. ASUS has also made common gestures more intelligent. For example, quickly checking notifications with any app open by simply swiping your thumb on the side of the phone eliminates the need to strain your thumb by reaching for the top of the screen. Furthermore, you can continue swiping to scroll down a long list of notifications. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve double-tapped the scanner to launch my favorite messaging app for a quick reply. These ideas showcase a perfect marriage of hardware and software, prioritizing functionality.
Video stabilization and long-exposure capabilities on the Zenfone 10 are also highly impressive, proving that sensible hardware choices can outperform software emulation. However, when it comes to general imaging, portraits, and other aspects of photography, Google’s camera setup remains at the forefront, thanks to advanced processing.
On the software front, the Zenfone 10 isn’t as fleshed out as one might hope. While its clean and swift take on stock Android is commendable, it lacks certain apps, theming options, and widgets compared to other brands. There are a few extras, such as Game Genie for enhanced gaming experiences and various camera light trail modes. Additionally, ASUS has a promising AI photo search function currently in beta. However, in terms of software, aside from the gestures, the Zenfone 10 is relatively barebones. Whether that’s a positive or negative aspect depends on personal preference.
Now, let’s talk about the Pixel software experience. It’s not really Android that sets Pixels apart; it’s everything else that comes with it. When you purchase a Pixel, you unlock the full potential of Google’s ecosystem of apps and services. Whether it’s adjusting portrait bokeh blur, accessing free VPN, or enjoying ample cloud storage (the Pixel Fold even comes with a six-month 2TB free trial of Google One), you get more value for your money in the short term. Exclusive Pixel features like Call Screen, Hold For Me, voice message transcriptions, and more enhance the overall smartphone experience with intelligent features not found elsewhere.
And then there’s the camera. The Pixel series has established itself as a frontrunner in smartphone photography, thanks to its unrivaled AI image processing. With features like Motion mode, Top Shot, and Google One integration for required Google Photos features, Pixels continue to raise the bar in mobile photography.
In essence, Pixel software isn’t solely defined by Android; it’s the extensive Google ecosystem that truly shines. Whether this is a positive or negative aspect depends on your affinity for Google’s apps and services.
Looking back, I realize that I don’t truly want a Nexus phone. Nexus represents a time before Google took control of software development, and that era should remain in the past. On the other hand, I don’t want to pay extra for phone features every month either. However, if we remove Google One and the Pixel software experience, which encompasses cameras, photos, and other AI extras, we find the sweet spot where services transform phones into more than just slabs of glass.
Of course, this might not be the ideal solution for everyone. Some users want to break free from the confines of a specific software ecosystem, including Google’s. In that case, ASUS’ approach with the Zenfone 10 is a delicate balance. Perhaps the Zenfone 10 is already a modern version of what the Nexus series stood for, or at least as close as we’ll ever get. Combining ASUS’ intuitive hardware with Google’s intelligent software and camera capabilities would create the ultimate Pixel device in my opinion. It’s unfortunate that such a phone doesn’t exist, but both the Zenfone 10 and Pixel 7 are brilliant devices in their own right.
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Alex Smith is a writer and editor with over 10 years of experience. He has written extensively on a variety of topics, including technology, business, and personal finance. His work has been published in a number of magazines and newspapers, and he is also the author of two books. Alex is passionate about helping people learn and grow, and he believes that writing is a powerful tool for communication and understanding.
