The Nexus 6 is rumoured to be launching this autumn and with benchmark results and specs already leaking online we know a lot about it already. We've always been big fans of Google's Nexus range of smartphones. Running 'pure' Android with no other modifications, they've been a great way to get the full OS and be first in line for software updates. Not to mention that both Nexus phones and tablets are stupidly cheap and have excellent specs.
With the Nexus 5 launching last year we're used to having a new Google handset each year. So where is the Nexus 6 (or Nexus X if the latest rumours are to be believed)? We round up all of the latest release date, price, specs and benchmark rumours.
Nexus 6 release date
The latest rumours suggest that the Nexus 6 will launch on 15 October...or maybe 16 October. Sources, who almost certainly don't exist, speaking to Android Authority claim that Google will unveil the Nexus 8 or Nexus 9 and the Nexus 6 alongside Android L 5 on one of those dates. Why the sources are talking about two dates we're not sure. We'd take these launch date rumours with a hefty shovel of salt.
Looking at the previous Nexus phone launches an October or November launch seems likely. The Nexus 4 was announced in October 2012 and came out in November; the Nexus 5 was announced in October 2013 and came out a month later. Make of that what you will.
Nexus 6 specs and benchmark results
It is extremely likely that the Nexus 6 specs have already been leaked. Benchmark results leaked on AnTuTu give details of a device called Google Shamu, a rumoured codename for the Nexus 6. According to AnTuTu, the handset was running Android 5 L, have a 5.2in QHD screen, Qualcomm Snapdragon 805 SoC processor and 3GB of RAM.
As well as the AnTuTu leak benchmark results for the Nexus 6 have leaked have also been posted on GFXBench. The specs match those from the other leak, confirming the Nexus 6 will run Android 5 L, have a 5.2in 2560x1440 screen, a quad-core Qualcomm processor and 3GB of memory. Other specs snippets include confirmation of 24GB of storage and a 12 megapixel rear facing camera with a 2 megapixel camera on the front. Its rumoured Snapdragon 800 processor sees it perform almost identically to the S5, Xperia Z2, HTC One (m8) and OnePlus One.
As reported by TechTastic, the Nexus 6 scored 714 frames at 11.5fps. By comparison the S5 scored 729 frames at 11.8, the Z2 698 frames at 11.3 and the HTC One (m8) 725 frames at 11.7. The LG G3 scored 412 frames at 6.6 frames per second.
One feature we expect the Nexus 6 to carry over from the Nexus 5 (and Nexus 4), is wireless charging. With the official Nexus Wireless Charger (or third-party compatible docks), you can simply place your phone on the flat surface and have it charge up without having to plug in any cables. It's quick and convenient and, given that Google's obviously invested time and money into the technology, we don't think that it's something that the company would remove. We expect the Nexus 6 to be compatible with the existing charging dock, too, rather than requiring a completely new product.
Nexus 6 price
The Nexus line-up has always been good value in the past and the Nexus 6 should be no different. At launch the Nexus 5 cost £299 for the 16GB version and we'd expect the Nexus 6 to be similarly priced. Indian import/export site Zauba has listed the Shamu phone with an import price of 69,965 INR (around £349). However, as that phone's a prototype, it could just be a value put on the customs form. In other words, we're going to have to wait for a little bit longer to find out for certain.
Nexus 6 will be Motorola phablet
It had been assumed that Google would work with LG on the Nexus 6, but it now looks very likely it will partner with Motorola. The latest rumours suggest that Motorola is working on two new Nexus devices - an updated version of the Nexus 5 and a phablet-like Nexus 6. The Nexus 5 will extend the screen up to a 5.2in diagonal, but the Nexus 6 will arrive with a huge 5.92in display.
According to 9to5Google the Nexus 6 will be based on the recently-announced 2nd generation Moto X, with a few minor adjustments to make it easier to use given the larger screen. The volume and power buttons would be moved further towards the centre of the side of the handset, but the overall design would remain the same. That means it will have an aluminium outer frame, curved rear and forward-facing speakers.
The display apparently has a 2,560x1,440 resolution, which equates to a pixel density of 498ppi. Inside, a 2.6GHz quad-core Snapdragon 805 processor, 3GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage are slated to appear, while the rear-facing camers will reportedly usea 13-megapixel sensor and the ring flash first seen on the new Moto X. It should also use a 3,200mAh battery.
This isn't the first time rumours have surfaced of a supersized 5.9in Nexus 6. AndroidPolice has previously reported on the Motorola Shamu, again saying it will have a 5.9in screen.
Nexus 5 production halted?
According to Canadian phone network Wind Mobile the Nexus 5 is no longer being manufactured. Responding to a customer on Twitter the network said the Nexus 5 was out of stock as it was "no longer being made". Wind quickly deleted the Tweet, but not before eagle-eyed gadget fans noticed.
It isn't clear if the Wind Mobile customer service representative accidentally revealed confidential information or if they got their facts wrong. Stopping production of the Nexus 5 would suggest that the Nexus 6 will be with us before the end of the year. Google tends to halt manufacture of old Nexus devices completely, rather than cutting prices when it releases a new model. If the Nexus 5 really is coming end of line people eager to get their hands on the device should do so quickly before stock starts to run out.
Nexus 6 Android L 5
Google tends to release new hardware with a new Nexus. This time that means Android L. Most people think that it will be Android Lollipop, but then again most people thought the previous version would be Android Key Lime Pie, before Google sold out to Nestle.
We already know a fair bit about the OS. It will have a new-look and it'll also be able to unlock itself based on location and the proximity of Bluetooth devices and Wi-Fi networks. Expect better graphics, improved performance and better battery life. This OS will also have a completely redesigned user interface, which Google is Material Design.
Google took inspiration from pens and ink, with every icon and interface element having its own completely accurate shadow. Everything has been redesigned, including the apps, widgets and notifications to match the new design. Google is also planning on rolling out the new design to other areas, too, with the Play Store set for a Material redesign soon.
