Google Pixel 2 will likely get squeezable sides to launch apps

A registration with the American FCC shows that the Google Pixel 2 will have squeezable sides. HTC has submitted the application, which means that the smartphone maker from Taiwan will make the Pixel 2. The Pixel 2 XL is likely made by LG, according to previous reports.

Android Police reports this based on files submitted to the Federal Communications Commission. The functionality would be called Active Edge and by default it could start Google Assistant, although it can probably also open other apps. The FCC registration only concerns the Pixel 2.

The files would show that the Pixel 2 runs on Android 8.0.1, a version of Android that has yet to officially appear. There is also talk of an available storage space of more than 50GB, which probably means that the Pixel 2 will have a storage space of 64GB. Earlier leaked specifications showed that the smaller Pixel 2, just like its bigger brother, will have a Snapdragon 835 and 4GB of ram. In addition, the Pixel 2 will probably get dual speakers on the front. Presumably, both the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL lack a 3.5mm jack.

Back in July, an XDA source broke the news that the larger Pixel 2 XL is getting squeezable sides. This would allow, among other things, Google Assistant to be started, regardless of whether the screen is on or off. It could also be pinched to mute the sound of incoming calls.

Such functionality with squeezable sides is similar to the existing HTC U11 smartphone, which has Edge Sense as one of its most distinctive features. By squeezing the sides, various apps can be launched, such as the camera, the flashlight function or another app of your choice.