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Google Nexus 6 camera review

Google Nexus 6 camera review


smartphone reviews are written with the needs of photographers in mind. We focus on camera features, performance, and image quality.

Introduction

While both the Nexus 4 and Nexus 5 were built by Korean manufacturer LG, the Nexus 6 - the latest model in Google's Nexus line of showcase devices - was designed and built in cooperation with US company Motorola. In light of this, it's no surprise that the Nexus 6 looks very much like an enlarged version of the 2014 edition of the Motorola Moto X, with the same metal frame, curvy design and dimpled back.
The Nexus 6 also comes with the same dual-LED ring flash as the Moto X and a 13MP imaging sensor. However, at F2.0 its aperture is a touch faster and it comes with an optical image stabilization system which should make for improved low light performance. Like the new Moto X the Nexus 6 is also capable of recording 4K video. 
Despite the similarities in design its dimensions make the Nexus a very different device from the Moto X. With its 5.96-inch QHD AMOLED screen is noticeably larger and fully qualifies as a phablet. The device is powered by Qualcomm's latest high-end system chip, the Snapdragon S805, and users can choose between versions with 32 or 64GB of storage. Unfortunately there is no microSD-slot for memory expansion though.
One of the Nexus line's stand-out features is the "pure" version of Android, without any manufacturer user interface add-ons or carrier bloatware. The Nexus 6 comes with the latest version, 5.0 "Lollipop", which has new features to sync content consumption, app usage and searches across devices and a new battery saver function that it is claimed extends the life of your device by up to 90 minutes. As on previous Nexus devices Google Camera is the default camera app.

Key Photographic / Video Specifications:

  • 13MP rear camera
  • F2.0 aperture
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 4K video
  • 2MP front camera
  • dual-LED ring flash

Other Specifications:

  • 5.96-inch 2560 x 1440 QHD AMOLED display (493 ppi)
  • Gorilla Glass 3
  • Android 5.0 "Lollipop"
  • Quad core Krait 450 CPU 2.7 GHz (Qualcomm Snapdragon 805 SOC)
  • 32 or 64GB storage
  • dual front-facing speakers
  • 3220 mAh battery

Our 9-page review

We've considered every aspect of the Google Nexus 6 camera, with the photographer in mind. We examined the user interface of the native camera app and its special features. We experimented with the camera's performance when taking stills and video, and had a play with the device's many special feature modes. Click any of the links below for more information of specific functions and continue to our conclusion for a final summary of our findings.

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