AndroidBeat Daily Brief (Oct 3, 2017): Google Pixel 2 Leaks, Google Home and Contacts App Get UI Updates, HTC U11 Life Specs Leak

BY Rajesh Pandey

Published 3 Oct 2017

Welcome to today’s edition of AndroidBeat’s Daily Briefing where we talk about the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL leak, leaked HTC U11 Life specs, updated Google Contacts app for Android, and a massive redesign for the Google Home app.

HTC U11 Life Specs Leak

It was previously leaked that HTC is working with Google on an Android One handset. Today, thanks to @LlabTooFeR specs of this mid-range Android One handset from HTC dubbed the U11 Life have leaked.

As the specs show, the U11 Life is a mid-range device with specs similar to that of the Moto X4, another Android One handset making its way to the U.S. It is possible that we will see Google and HTC provide more details about the U11 Life at its Made by Google event on October 4.

Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL Leak

Google’s much-anticipated Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL have leaked in press renders which show off their design in all its glory. The press renders confirm that the Pixel 2 will continue to sport massive bezels like its predecessors, while the bigger Pixel 2 XL will sport smaller bezels than the Pixel XL, it won’t be bezel-less as seen on the LG V30 and Galaxy S8.

Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL

Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL Leaks in Press Renders

Google Home for Android Receives a Major Update

Google has given the Google Home app for Android a major overhaul. The UI of the app has been completely redone which provides one with quick access to Watch, Listen, and Discover tabs. If you are a heavy Chromecast user, you are going to love the redesigned Google Home app.

Redesigned Google Home app for Android

Google Contacts App Redesign

Google has redesigned certain aspects of the Google Contacts app for Android that makes it easier for one to manage their contact list. The changes include the Contacts view showing a larger and vibrant photo for contacts, action buttons under the photo for speedy connectivity, and a directory card showing the directory profile information of that contact. The app now also features a ‘Merge All’ button to help one easily merge all their duplicate contacts.

The latest update to the Google Contacts app is slowly rolling out through the Google Play Store.


Do you like the redesigned Google Home app? What do you think about the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL based on the leaked press renders?