Cover image via Sukhbir Cheema / SAYS
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Google's latest and biggest phone, the Pixel 10 Pro XL, is here. You might not see it in official stores in Malaysia, but plenty of sellers will bring it in.
Starting at RM5,999, the big question is: should you get one?
The Pixel is famous for its super-smart software and amazing camera.
But is it the right phone for your daily life in Malaysia?
The first thing you'll notice is the huge, beautiful screen on the Pixel 10 Pro XL
Seriously, it's one of the brightest and sharpest screens out there.
Watching Netflix, scrolling through Instagram, or even just browsing Facebook is a fantastic experience.
Even under the bright Malaysian sun, you'll have no problem seeing what's on your screen. It's perfect for watching your favourite dramas or football matches while you're on the go.
But the Pixel 10 Pro XL's main selling point is its camera
You don't need to be a professional photographer to take stunning pictures. Just point, shoot, and the phone's 'brain' does the rest.
Colours are vibrant, and photos look sharp and clear. It's great for taking pictures of your pets or capturing everyday moments with your family.
The selfie camera is also extra wide, so you can easily fit all your friends and family into one shot without anyone getting cut out.
A portrait of my cat taken with the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL.
Image via Sukhbir Cheema / SAYSThe Pixel 10 Pro XL also comes packed with cool AI features that are actually useful and not gimmicky
For example, it can screen your calls to block spammers, wait on hold for you during customer service calls, and even translate conversations in real time. It feels like you're living in the future.
Plus, Google promises to keep it updated with new features for the next seven years, so it won't feel old and slow after just a couple of years.
The Pixel 10 Pro XL looks and feels… atas. There are also four colours to choose from: Obsidian, Porcelain (the one I reviewed), Moonstone, and Jade
With glass on the front and back and a metal frame, it has a solid, high-quality build that stands out.
The unique camera bar on the back is a signature Pixel look, so people will know you're using something special.
However, the Pixel 10 Pro XL has a few weaknesses you should know about before you splash your cash
For starters, the battery life is.. okay-okay lah. This is probably its biggest weakness.
If you're a heavy user who is always on your phone, you will probably need to carry a power bank. It should last most of the day for a light user, but it definitely won't win any awards for endurance.
Also, when your battery does run out, be prepared to wait. The phone charges very slowly compared to many other Android phones out there. If you're always in a rush, this might frustrate you.
This phone is the "XL" model for a reason. It's big, and it's heavier than many of its rivals
If you have small hands or prefer a phone that fits easily into your pocket or a small handbag, you might find this one a bit cumbersome to carry around all day.
However, for people like me with large hands, it was a non-issue.
While it's perfectly fine for casual games like Candy Crush, the Pixel 10 Pro XL isn't built for serious gaming
If you play demanding games like Genshin Impact or PUBG Mobile for long periods, the phone can get warm and may not perform as smoothly as other top-tier phones.
The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL is a fantastic phone for a specific type of person
You should get it if you value a simple, smart, and smooth software experience above all else. It's also perfect for those who want one of the best point-and-shoot cameras on a smartphone.
For people looking for smart AI assistants on smartphones, you'll not go wrong with the Pixel 10 Pro XL as it has an edge over its competitors. Add seven years of updates, and it offers solid value for money.
But, you should reconsider your options if battery life is your number one priority. If you're a serious mobile gamer or prefer smaller, lighter phones, then you're not the target audience for the Pixel 10 Pro XL.
That said, if you can overlook the battery issues, you'll be rewarded with one of the smartest and most pleasant-to-use phones on the market.
