Google Pixel Stand (2nd Gen): What's New & Should You Buy It

The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are the new hotness in Google's hardware lineup, but the new phones are also joined by a refreshed Pixel Stand for convenient wireless charging. There's quite a lot to like about the Pixel 6 family. They have incredible designs, the new Google Tensor chip, upgraded cameras, and all-day battery life.

With a phone from any major company, though, the phone is just one part of the equation. To get the very best experience, there are complementary accessories that take things a step further. With past Pixel releases, this has included things like Google Pixel Buds, Pixel Clips, and the Pixel Stand for wireless charging.

Related: Pixel 6 & Pixel 6 Pro Specs

For the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, Google's big new accessory launching alongside them is the Pixel Stand (2nd Gen). Google launched the first Pixel Stand in 2018 with the Pixel 3. It was a wireless charging stand that offered fast charging speeds, and helpful integrations with the phone — such as enabling Do Not Disturb and an ambient photo gallery when the Pixel 3 was docked to it. The Pixel Stand (2nd Gen) is more or less the same product. It props your new Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro upright, wirelessly charges them, and looks good while doing so.

Google advertises the Pixel Stand (2nd Gen) as delivering 23W charge speeds, but actually getting that number depends entirely on the phone being used with it. Have a Pixel 6 Pro? It'll get that full 23W charging without a problem. The regular Pixel 6 charges slightly slower at 21W, with other Qi-enabled phones refueling at a reduced 15W rate. The Pixel Stand (2nd Gen) is also designed to work with Google Pixel Buds, ensuring folks can charge their Pixel phone and earbuds seamlessly on one accessory.

Folks with the older Pixel Stand will likely notice that the 2nd Gen model is a bit larger and bulkier than its sibling. That's because the Pixel Stand (2nd Gen) has its own fan built inside the charger. It might seem silly for a charger to have a fan, but it's necessary for Google to deliver those 23 and 21W charging speeds. Google also reassures that the fan is "nearly silent," so it shouldn't be a disturbance while watching videos or making a phone call. It's also worth pointing out that the Pixel Stand (2nd Gen) is made with "approximately 39 percent recycled materials," further reinforcing Google's commitment to being more responsible with the way it designs its products.

Overall, the Pixel Stand (2nd Gen) looks like a solid accessory for any Pixel 6/Pixel 6 Pro owner. It's compact, has surprisingly fast charge speeds, and it's relatively affordable at $79. The biggest downside, however, is that there's currently no launch date for it. Google says the Pixel Stand (2nd Gen) is 'coming soon' and offers no further insight into an exact release date. Here's to hoping that changes in the near future, because there's a lot to like here.

Next: Why Apple Got Rid Of The 2021 MacBook Pro's Touch Bar

Source: Google



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