Google is planning to release a second-generation Pixel smartphone later this year following the success of the first generation phone.
Speaking at a roundtable discussion during Mobile World Congress last week, Google senior vice president of hardware Rick Osterloh told Android Pit that the company intended to follow the “annual rhythm” of the smartphone industry.
“You can count on a successor this year, even if you don’t hear a date from me,” Osterloh told the publication, adding that the phone’s pricing would stay in the premium segment.
Osterloh did not provide details on when the phone may be released or about specifications on the feature set of the Pixel 2.
He said there are too few current-generation Pixel devices to meet consumer demand.
Last month, Google released a statement saying that it will not stop Pixel devices manufacturing in response to rumors that the company would cease production of its Pixel lineup.
Read more: 5 reasons why you should buy the Google Pixel smartphone
The Google Pixel and Pixel XL devices, which were released last October, allowed Google to directly compete with Apple, Samsung, and other hardware firms.
The Pixel, with the built-in personal Google Assistant, has the highest rated smartphone camera.
It combines hardware and software made by Google, including all the users’ favorite Google apps.
The 5-inch smartphone features Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 processor, 4GB of RAM and runs on Android Nougat 7.0 operating system.
It also features Pixel Imprint, a fingerprint scanner on the back of the smartphone for access to all apps, texts and e-mails.
Users have complained that Pixel and Pixel XL devices cost a premium, but it is claimed that the device is the best Android phone in the market at present.
