Two cameras on the back and an all-new third sensor

Corroborating previous information, the metal case models seen today point towards the presence of a large, square-shaped camera bump on the back. Huawei previously used a similar layout on last year’s Mate 20 Pro but chose to position its setup in the middle of the rear panel. Google, however, has chosen to retain its top-left corner camera placement.

As Hilsenteger points out, the design created is similar to that of the upcoming iPhone 11 and iPhone 11 Max. You shouldn’t think there’s any copying going on, though. The respective setups are just coincidental and have seemingly been chosen based on planned camera functionalities. Speaking of the which, yesterday’s leak unfortunately didn’t reveal too much about Google’s plans. According to today’s information, though, the internet giant is going to fit both Pixel 4 models with two cameras on the rear, one of which will presumably include either a telephoto or super-wide-angle lens.

Accompanying this will be the usual LED flash and an all-new ‘spectral sensor.’ Details about the latter weren’t shared, but these sensors can usually capture information that isn’t available to the naked eye such as x-rays, ultraviolet, infrared, and many more. Sensors like these can also capture depth data for each individual pixel and better identify materials. The exact benefits of its inclusion remain unclear at the moment, but it could potentially improve low-light photography and portrait images drastically.

Initial Pixel 4 rumors pointed towards the presence of a punch hole display, but the positioning of the in-ear speaker on yesterday’s renders suggested a notch may actually be present. As it turns out, both are wrong. According to the information, Google is going to fully embrace a ‘forehead’ this year rather than aiming for an all-screen look. Overall, the design will probably resemble that of Sony’s mid-range Xperia 10 series but there’s a good reason for this. On last year’s Pixel 3 series Google opted for two selfie cameras, but this year the company is said to be planning a total of five separate imaging sensors for the front of the smartphones.

The exact technology that Google plans to include isn’t yet known, but it certainly seems as though the company have a rival to Apple’s Face ID up its sleeves. Unfortunately, for those of you hoping for an in-screen fingerprint scanner, this won’t reportedly be included. 

Wireless charging, Active Edge, and more

Rounding out the Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL setups is said to be NFC along the rear in addition to wireless charging. The USB-C port remains along the bottom and sits next to what appears to be a bottom-firing speaker as part of a stereo setup. Like the Pixel 3 series, the Pixel 4 duo are set to include Active Edge sensors along the side of the frame.