Rumors and speculations had been running around for months prior to the much-awaited reveal of Google Pixel 2 Pixel 2 XL smartphones. Finally, the search engine giant gave the first look at the next iteration of their premium Pixel handsets, made in partnership with HTC.

As reported by Tech Crunch, the expected arrival of Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL in the U.S. market following the unboxing event is on Oct. 17. There have been doubts whether the company will be hitting the jackpot the second time around, given that the first Pixel handsets were a huge success upon their launch. With the new features presented by Google, it appears that there is indeed more reason for people to line up in the market to get their own Pixel 2.

The Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL boast some improvements in terms of design and hardware features, although the highlight of the devices' showcasing was the special touch-sensitive sides. The Pixel 2 smartphones are made with squeezable sides that prompt Google Assistant upon pressing. This feature is also included in HTC's latest handset, U11.

The Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL have 4GB RAM, while there are two internal storage options available, 64GB and 128GB. Both handsets are powered by the current high-end chipset from Qualcomm, the Snapdragon 835. Some tech enthusiasts hoped that the new Pixel handsets will offer something new in terms of mobile processor, as the Snapdragon 835 has already been featured in other flagship smartphones previously released this year. Nevertheless, the Snapdragon 835 remains a top-tier processor.

It was also announced by Google that the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL handsets will run the latest Android 8.0 Oreo firmware out of the box. However, people who are hoping to see an upgrade in the Pixel's camera department might be disappointed as the latest version will still carry 12MP camera. Although, the optical image stabilization feature in the Pixel 2's lens is enhanced for better video quality.

With regards to the display, the Google Pixel 2 is shown to sport the same 5-inch 1080p screen, although some people hoped that the handset would also feature reduced bezels. The sought-after bezel reduction happened in the larger Pixel XL variant.

The 64GB storage variant of Google Pixel 2 costs $649, while the 128GB option costs $749. For those planning to order the new Pixel handsets, The Verge reported that the current stock is already running out, only a few hours after the Pixel 2 event finished. So far, there might be a chance that a buyer will get the smaller Pixel 2 smartphone in time for Oct. 19 delivery date. Unfortunately, for those wanting to order the Pixel 2 XL, there is no certainty if the larger variant will be available for delivery anytime soon.