Google Nexus 6P review – premium hardware and pure Android

The Nexus 6P launches with a full‑metal aluminum chassis, a 5.7‑inch QHD screen and a 12.3 MP camera, positioning it as Google’s premium flagship and delivering pure Android updates without carrier bloat [1][2].

Design and hardware highlights

Google partnered with Huawei to give the Nexus 6P an anodized aluminum body, a departure from the plastic shells of earlier Nexus models. The metal frame, though not the toughest metal (it bends under extreme force), provides a premium feel that reviewers compare favorably to flagship devices [1]. The rear houses a curved glass panel protected by Gorilla Glass 4, while the front displays a 5.7‑inch QHD panel that is “up there with the top tier of smartphone screens” [1]. At 6.27 oz, the phone is heavier than the Nexus 5X, but its larger display and higher‑resolution panel justify the weight difference [2].

Performance, camera and software

Under the hood, the Nexus 6P runs a Snapdragon 810 (v2.1) processor clocked at 2.0 GHz with an ARM big.LITTLE configuration, delivering more high‑power cores than the Nexus 5X’s Snapdragon 808 [2]. The device also ships with 3 GB of RAM and storage options up to 128 GB, giving it a multitasking edge. Its 12.3 MP rear camera features 1.55 µm pixels for better low‑light performance, and the front‑facing 8 MP shooter supports 30 fps HD video [1][2]. Google’s stock Android experience means the phone receives instant OS updates and lacks carrier‑added UI layers, a key advantage for users who prefer a clean software environment [1].

User experience and drawbacks

Reviewers praise the back‑mounted fingerprint sensor for its speed, noting it unlocks faster than the iPhone 6’s scanner [1]. Stereo front speakers provide decent volume, though they can sound “tinny” compared to dedicated Bluetooth speakers. Battery life is respectable but does not consistently last a full day for heavy users; however, a 20‑minute quick‑charge session restores enough power for short outings [1]. The phone’s size—measuring 6.27 × 3.06 × 0.28 inches—makes it less compact than the Nexus 5X, which may be a concern for users with smaller hands or tighter pockets [2].

What to watch

• Battery endurance – monitor real‑world usage patterns to see if the 2,700 mAh cell meets daily demands.
• Processor thermals – keep an eye on any overheating reports now that the Snapdragon 810 v2.1 is in use.
• Software updates – track the rollout schedule for new Android versions, as the Nexus line’s appeal hinges on timely updates.

The Nexus 6P demonstrates how Google can combine premium hardware with a bloat‑free Android experience, offering a compelling alternative to pricier flagship phones while still leaving room for improvement in battery life and ergonomics.