Google may have just accidentally leaked the Pixel 3 release date
Google seems to really like the date Oct. 4. It launched a whole bunch of hardware — including the most recent Pixel phones — on that date in 2017, and new evidence suggests the tech giant is planning to do it all again this year.
According to YouTube channel This Is Tech Today, Google is seeking out influencers to demo the Pixel 3 for for a video planned for Oct. 4, the date of the phone's launch. The original info is said to come from Famebit, a service operated by Google-owned YouTube that lets brands find influencers for campaigns.
The Famebit ad seeks video creators willing to switch to a Pixel 3 and deliver a video. It seems that Google will make an emphasis on switching from another device as non-Pixel users are the only ones eligible to do the video.
The Pixel phones have a built-in feature to make switching easy: Google shipped the Pixel 2 with a USB-C to USB-A adapter in the box for easy data transfer. This allows users to connect an iOS or Android device and have the apps, contacts, photos, and messages copied over.
For the Pixel 3, it appears that Google wants to have these creators tell a narrative story about real use with the device and the process of making the switch.
Google would also be following in Apple's footsteps by passing over some traditional media outlets and bloggers for reviews, and instead prioritize YouTube influencers. You may recall that Apple let a select group of influencers go hands-on with the iPhone X before its general availability and media reviews of the device.
In May, the Android P beta let loose a graphic of what is likely the next Pixel with a notch at the top. Then in late July the first photos from a supply chain leaked out of what is looks like the Pixel 3 XL with a sizable notch. However, this is the first leak to mention an October 4 launch.
With the addition of gesture-based navigation in Android P and the Pixel 3 expected to have a notch, it might be that Google is copying Apple. Even so, all of this is unofficial until Google sends out invites for an event and makes the new hardware official. We wait with baited breath.
