As flagships, it is expected that the new Google Pixel and Pixel XL will carry IP68 certification. However, it is confirmed that instead of being element-proofed, the two flagships are only IP53 certified, meaning they are only dust and water-resistant.

According to Droid-Life, Google itself confirmed the IP53 certification. Prior to the reveal, it has been expected that Google will go for the maximum IPXX rating on its Pixel flagships since most of its competitors, like Samsung and China-based tech makers, are known to feature higher proofing ratings for its flagships.

For the new Google Pixel, an IP53 certification rating means that the new devices are water and dust-resistant up to a certain point. In terms of IP codes, the Pixel rating means that the device is protected against dust, although "ingress of dust is not entirely prevented, but it must not enter in sufficient quantity to interfere with the satisfactory operation of the equipment".

Meanwhile, instead of being completely waterproofed even when submerged in water, an IP53 certification only offers resistance to "water falling as a spray at any angle up to 60° from the vertical shall have no harmful effect, utilizing either: a) an oscillating fixture, or b) A spray nozzle with a counterbalanced shield." In practical use, while the Google Pixel is somewhat protected against minor spills and splashes, users are cautioned against prolonged use in the rain or in the shower.

This is surprising, since most recent releases have higher certifications, like IP67 or IP68. However, it is noted that the Google Pixel's co-maker is HTC. Interestingly, HTC's own current-gen flagship, the HTC 10 lineup, is also IP53 certified.

The rest of the specs for the Google Pixel and Pixel XL are top-notch. Both carry the step-up Snapdragon 821 processor paired with 4 GB of RAM. There is also an above-average camera setup, fingerprint scanner, and the Corning Gorilla Glass 4 as its AMOLED display.