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I thought Google made a mistake with the Pixel 11 Pro XL. 30 days later, I was wrong

8:03 AM ETConfirmed

Technology Desk

In Short: After initial skepticism about its steep price tag, the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL has won over critics.

The Pixel 11 Pro XL offers more than expected for its price, providing a compelling user experience.

Techadvisor noted that the Pixel 11 series runs smoothly with updated Google Play services, enhancing the overall user experience.

Zdnet reported that the Pixel Buds Pro 2 earbuds, paired with the Pixel 11 Pro XL, have become a favorite, overcoming earlier design flaws.

Google's Pixel 11 Pro XL also received praise for its seamless integration with other Google devices, such as the Pixel Buds Pro 2.

Finance reported that the Pixel 11 Pro Fold, a foldable alternative to the rumored foldable iPhone, has been praised for its slimmer, lighter design.

The Pixel 11 Pro Fold is powered by Google's Tensor G6 processor, paired with 16GB of RAM and available in 256GB and 512GB storage configurations.

GrapheneOS, however, has given priority to select Motorola smartphones due to technical difficulties with the Pixel 11 series.

WarpBeat previously reported on initial skepticism about the Pixel 11 Pro XL, and now confirms that reviewers are praising the device.

The sources have not established a direct comparison between the Pixel 11 Pro XL and other foldable devices in terms of performance and user experience.

The improvements in Google Home and Now Playing notifications are not directly related to the Pixel 11 Pro XL but enhance the overall ecosystem.

Background

What's confirmed

• The Pixel 11 Pro XL offers more than expected for its price, providing a compelling user experience.
• Techadvisor noted that the Pixel 11 series runs smoothly with updated Google Play services, enhancing the overall user experience.
• Zdnet reported that the Pixel Buds Pro 2 earbuds, paired with the Pixel 11 Pro XL, have become a favorite, overcoming earlier design flaws.
• Google's Pixel 11 Pro XL also received praise for its seamless integration with other Google devices, such as the Pixel Buds Pro 2.
• Finance reported that the Pixel 11 Pro Fold, a foldable alternative to the rumored foldable iPhone, has been praised for its slimmer, lighter design.
• The Pixel 11 Pro Fold is powered by Google's Tensor G6 processor, paired with 16GB of RAM and available in 256GB and 512GB storage configurations.
• GrapheneOS, however, has given priority to select Motorola smartphones due to technical difficulties with the Pixel 11 series.
• WarpBeat previously reported on initial skepticism about the Pixel 11 Pro XL, and now confirms that reviewers are praising the device.
• The sources have not established a direct comparison between the Pixel 11 Pro XL and other foldable devices in terms of performance and user experience.
• The improvements in Google Home and Now Playing notifications are not directly related to the Pixel 11 Pro XL but enhance the overall ecosystem.

What's still developing

• When you start using the phone, the sticker shock melts away, and you start to see why Pixels are still an enjoyable experience.
• I questioned Google’s higher prices for the Pixel 11 series, and I thought it was a mistake.
• However, using the Pixel 11 Pro XL gives you a different perspective.
• It’s not easy to ask people to spend $1,300 on a Pixel in 2026, but Google’s newest flagship offers more than you might expect for the price.
• If you have a Pixel or Galaxy phone running Android 17, your struggles could soon be over.
• If you can’t see it, make sure your Google Play services are up to date – it requires version 26.33.32 or later.
• Because I have a Pixel phone, the device immediately discovered the earbuds and walked me through the setup, including a seal check.
• After giving up on my original Pixel Buds Pro, I rolled the dice on a pair of Pro 2.
• Article updated on February 1, 2026, 8:48 pm EST Years ago, I purchased a pair of Google Pixel Buds Pro earbuds, and although their sound was sweet, the buds’ physical design was seriously flawed.
• Also: Google unveils Pixel Buds Pro 2: Here are the three features I’m most excited about On a whim, I decided to give the Pixel Buds Pro 2 earbuds a try.
• I thought, “Okay, Google, I’m gonna give you one more chance.” These earbuds have quickly become my favorite.
• READ: Pixel 11 Security Risk: Why GrapheneOS Just Abandoned Google’s Latest Smartphones With all that said however, GrapheneOS hasn’t revealed too much about its gameplan, although folks looking to stick to the platform will definitely want to check out the new Motorola phone once it launches.

Sources

• Android Authoritylink
• Techadvisorlink
• Zdnetlink
• Phandroidlink
• Quanta Magazinelink
• Droid-Lifelink
• Androidauthoritylink
• Varietylink
• Financelink
• Slashgearlink
• Notebookchecklink
• Gsmarenalink
• Cnetlink
• WarpBeat — background on Google Pixel 11 Pro XL Proves Its Worth After Initial Skepticism link
• Mark's Tech — video link