In short: Smartphone accessory manufacturer, Speck has now revealed two new protective cases for both the Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL, created in partnership with the search giant through its made by Google program. That means that each case should fit onto Google’s newest flagships snugly, and provide maximum protection against drops and damage without getting in the way of device ports. Setting aside differences in size, the cases are based on Speck’s Presidio Stay Clear and Presidio Grip series and are functionally identical. As the name implies, the former series is a slim-fitting colorless design with anti-yellowing and oil-repellent features. That’s also rated for up to 8-foot drops, allowing for good damage prevention without losing the unique Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL look. The latter of the new case series, Presidio Grip, adds anti-slip grooves and is slightly more rugged as it’s protected against drops of up to 10-feet. This case is available in three colors for the smaller Pixel 3 and two for the new Pixel 3 XL, with each two-tone option acting to accent those chosen by Google for its flagships. For the Google Pixel 3, the hues available include a black-on-black, graphite grey over charcoal grey, or desert rose pink and heartwood brown. In contrast to the Pixel 3 XL options which don’t include the grey scheme.
Background: Google’s Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL smartphones were the subject of significant leaking in recent months and to the point where by the time they were announced, almost every detail was already known. Now that they have been announced, it’s clear neither are specifically budget-friendly with the smaller Pixel 3’s pricing starting at $799, ranging up to $999 for the 128GB capacity Pixel 3 XL. While the company does have its own cases, both smartphones feature a build that’s entirely comprised of aluminum and glass. So it’s no surprise that Google has partnered with third-party case-makers like Speck to offer a range of ways to protect customer purchases.
Impact: While Speck has announced two cases here, the pricing remains the same for both cases of each handset, regardless of the style chosen. The cost to protect the Google Pixel 3 will run $39.95 with $5 extra for two-day shipping while the larger Pixel 3 XL cases cost $44.95 along with the same shipping costs. All of the new cases are available to order right now through Speck’s websites in the US, as well as in Europe. So nobody needs to wait until after the official October 17 shipment date starts to ensure their new flagships are well-protected from the moment they arrive.
Speck Google Pixel Cases