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Pixel 11 base model wins ZDNET praise; Android sideloading returns with 24-hour wait

ZDNET's Pixel 11 review praises the base model's new Hibiscus color and one-handed grip, while Android sideloading returns with a 24-hour wait and anti-scam checks.

AI News Feed · 2026-08-27 05:39

The review praised the Pixel 11's new Hibiscus color, its nearly symmetrical design, and the glossy back glass that becomes grippier as fingers sweat, making the phone comfortable to use without a case. The camera bar has been reduced to nearly half of last year's size, which better protects it when a case is installed, while the main sensor was upgraded to improve light gathering. The phone also introduces HiLight, an LED indicator that pulses in different colors for calls from favorited contacts or during Gemini chats; the reviewer wished the feature were more customizable.

As a non-Pro model, the Pixel 11 has notable limitations. The starting price increased from $799 to $899 for 256GB of storage. The display maxes out at 3,000 nits (the Pro reaches 3,600) and supports only 60Hz and 120Hz refresh rates. The main camera is 48MP versus the Pro's 50MP, and the telephoto is 10.8MP versus 48MP. RAM and storage cap at 12GB and 512GB (Pro offers up to 16GB and 1TB), and wired charging is limited to 30W (Pro supports 45W). Despite these compromises, the reviewer believes the AI features on the base model are sufficient for most people.

On sideloading, Google's new 'Advanced Flow' process requires users to confirm they are not being coerced, restart their device, and wait 24 hours before enabling installation from unverified developers, as ZDNET reported. After the waiting period, users can allow sideloading for seven days or indefinitely; selecting seven days means future re-enables do not require another wait. Google explained on Reddit that the flow is a one-time process for power users designed to prevent scammers from using high-pressure tactics to install malicious software, exploiting fear of financial ruin, legal trouble, or harm to loved ones.

To begin, users must enable Developer Options by tapping the build number seven times, then toggle on 'Apps from unverified developers,' authenticate, restart, and wait 24 hours. After that, they can download APK files from reputable sources and install them. The change follows Google's previous blocking of sideloading in 2025, a move it has now reversed with the new safeguards.