Huawei Nexus 6P Full Phone Specifications
The Huawei Nexus 6P, launched in late 2015, marked a significant turning point for Google’s Nexus lineup. As the flagship device for the Android 6.0 Marshmallow operating system, it represented a bold new direction for the brand, focusing on premium build quality and high-end specifications. This was the first all-metal phone in the Nexus series, co-engineered by Google and the then-emerging powerhouse, Huawei. The Nexus 6P was not just a vehicle for pure Android; it was a statement piece designed to compete directly with other top-tier flagships of its era, like the Samsung Galaxy S6 and the iPhone 6s Plus. Its release was highly anticipated, and it largely delivered, bringing a level of sophistication and polish to the Nexus name that had been missing in previous iterations.
The collaboration with Huawei brought a level of design and manufacturing expertise that had been previously unseen in the Nexus line. The device’s body was crafted from what Huawei described as “aeronautical-grade aluminum,” giving it a solid and premium feel in the hand. The most distinctive design element was the “camera bar” on the back, a raised black glass visor that housed the camera, dual-LED flash, and laser autofocus. While initially a point of contention for some, this design choice served a practical purpose, allowing for optimal antenna performance by housing them in a glass section, a clever solution for a metal unibody. This phone was a deliberate step away from the more utilitarian designs of its predecessors, like the plastic Nexus 5 or the large, unwieldy Nexus 6.
While its exterior was a fresh departure, the Nexus 6P remained true to the Nexus ethos of delivering a pure, unadulterated Android experience. It launched with Android 6.0 Marshmallow and was guaranteed to receive timely software updates directly from Google. This meant no bloatware, no manufacturer skins, and immediate access to new features and security patches. This commitment to a pristine Android experience was a major selling point for enthusiasts and developers. The software was tightly integrated with the hardware, leveraging features like the rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, dubbed Nexus Imprint, for seamless security and authentication. The combination of premium hardware and clean software made the Nexus 6P a reference device for the industry, showcasing what a true Google-designed smartphone could be.
Design and Build Quality
The Huawei Nexus 6P’s design was a major leap forward for the Nexus series, ditching the plastic and soft-touch materials of previous models for a full metal unibody. Measuring 159.3 x 77.8 x 7.3 mm and weighing 178 grams, it was both thinner and lighter than its predecessor, the Nexus 6, making it more comfortable to hold despite its large 5.7-inch display. The chamfered edges and polished finish gave it a luxurious feel, cementing its status as a premium device. The back of the phone was a single piece of aluminum, with a subtle curve that fit nicely into the palm of the hand. This design was not just for aesthetics; the use of metal contributed to the phone’s overall structural integrity and durability, providing a sense of quality that was previously associated with brands like Apple and HTC.
The most striking, and perhaps most controversial, design feature was the horizontal glass bar at the top of the rear panel. This “camera bump” was a conscious engineering decision. In an all-metal phone, radio signals for cellular, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS can be obstructed. The glass section was designed to let these signals pass through freely, ensuring strong connectivity. Within this bar, Huawei and Google housed the camera lens, the dual-LED flash, and the laser autofocus sensor. The bar also prevented the phone from wobbling when placed on a flat surface, a common complaint with phones that have a single, protruding camera module. The look was unique and instantly recognizable, setting the Nexus 6P apart from the sea of generic smartphone designs.
In addition to the premium materials, the Nexus 6P featured dual front-facing speakers, a design choice that significantly enhanced the media consumption experience. Unlike many phones of its time that had a single, often tinny, downward-firing speaker, the Nexus 6P delivered rich, stereo sound. The symmetrical speaker grilles gave the front of the phone a balanced and clean look, even though it resulted in a slightly larger top and bottom bezel. The device also included a USB Type-C port, making it one of the first mainstream phones to adopt the new, reversible standard. This foresight in design ensured that the phone felt modern and future-proof at the time of its release. The Nexus Imprint fingerprint sensor was also located on the back, a placement that many users found to be intuitive and convenient.
Display and Audio
The Huawei Nexus 6P was equipped with a stunning 5.7-inch AMOLED display with a Quad HD resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels. This resulted in a pixel density of 518 pixels per inch (ppi), making text and images appear incredibly sharp and detailed. The AMOLED technology, supplied by Samsung, provided deep, true blacks and vibrant, saturated colors, a characteristic that made watching movies and viewing photos a visually pleasing experience. The screen was protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 4, which offered enhanced resistance against drops and scratches. It also had an oleophobic coating, a feature that helped to repel fingerprints and smudges, keeping the display looking clean and clear during regular use.
One of the standout features of the display was its contrast ratio. Because AMOLED panels can turn off individual pixels, the Nexus 6P was able to achieve an infinite contrast ratio, making dark scenes in movies or games look incredibly rich and immersive. This was a significant advantage over LCD screens of the time, which could not produce true blacks. While some critics noted that the color calibration was slightly less accurate out of the box compared to other flagship devices, the pure, high-resolution AMOLED experience was a major selling point. The display also had excellent viewing angles and was bright enough for comfortable outdoor use, although it was not the brightest panel on the market.
For audio, the Nexus 6P offered a premium experience thanks to its dual front-facing stereo speakers. This was a feature that was highly praised by reviewers and users alike. The speakers delivered a clear and powerful sound that was a significant improvement over the single, rear-mounted speakers found on many competitors. The placement of the speakers on the front of the device meant that sound was directed toward the user, providing a more immersive and engaging audio experience for music, videos, and games. Additionally, the Nexus 6P retained the 3.5mm headphone jack, a feature that was still standard at the time and appreciated by users who preferred wired headphones. The combination of a high-quality AMOLED display and powerful stereo speakers made the Nexus 6P a fantastic device for multimedia consumption.
Hardware and Performance
Under the hood, the Huawei Nexus 6P was powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 v2.1 chipset, an octa-core processor that was a common choice for high-end Android phones in 2015. The processor was arranged in a “big.LITTLE” configuration, with four high-performance ARM Cortex-A57 cores clocked at 2.0 GHz for demanding tasks and four power-efficient ARM Cortex-A53 cores at 1.55 GHz for everyday use, optimizing both performance and battery life. This was paired with the Adreno 430 GPU, which provided excellent graphics performance for gaming and other graphically intensive applications. The device came with 3GB of LPDDR4 RAM, which, while not the highest amount available at the time, was sufficient for a smooth and responsive stock Android experience.
Despite its powerful hardware, the Snapdragon 810 was known to have issues with heat management. The metal unibody of the Nexus 6P, while premium in feel, could also act as a heat sink, making the device noticeably warm under heavy load, such as during intense gaming or 4K video recording. However, the stock Android software was well-optimized and generally ran smoothly. The lack of a heavy manufacturer skin meant that the phone could leverage its hardware more efficiently, with no unnecessary background processes consuming resources. This resulted in a snappy user interface and fluid performance for most day-to-day tasks. The Nexus 6P was available in three storage configurations: 32GB, 64GB, and 128GB, and notably, it lacked a microSD card slot for expandable storage, a design choice typical of Nexus devices at the time.
The Nexus 6P’s performance was further enhanced by its rear-mounted Nexus Imprint fingerprint sensor. This sensor was incredibly fast and accurate, allowing users to unlock the phone and authenticate payments with a simple tap. Its location on the back was a point of innovation, as it was a natural place for a user’s index finger to rest when holding the phone. This made it a seamless and intuitive part of the user experience. The sensor was also used for app authentication and worked with Android Pay, showcasing the deeper integration of security features within the operating system. The combination of a powerful processor, a clean software build, and a fast fingerprint sensor made the Nexus 6P a joy to use.
Camera Features and Performance
The Nexus 6P finally addressed one of the biggest criticisms of previous Nexus phones: a lackluster camera. It featured a 12.3-megapixel rear camera with a large 1/2.3-inch Sony IMX377 sensor and a pixel size of 1.55 µm, which was significantly larger than the pixels on many competing cameras. The larger pixels were designed to capture more light, leading to better low-light performance with less noise. The camera had an f/2.0 aperture and was assisted by laser autofocus for fast and accurate focusing. While it lacked Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), a feature found on many of its contemporaries, Google compensated with a fast HDR+ mode that used computational photography to produce excellent dynamic range and detail.
The camera’s performance was a pleasant surprise for many, earning it high praise from tech critics. In good lighting, the Nexus 6P consistently produced sharp images with accurate white balance and natural-looking colors. The HDR+ mode was particularly effective, balancing highlights and shadows in high-contrast scenes to create stunning photos. For video, the rear camera was capable of shooting 4K video at 30 frames per second and slow-motion video at 720p and 240 fps, providing users with a versatile set of video recording options. The laser autofocus was a key feature, allowing the camera to lock onto subjects almost instantly, a significant improvement over previous Nexus models that often struggled with focusing speed.
For selfies and video calls, the Nexus 6P came with a respectable 8-megapixel front-facing camera with a 1.4 µm pixel size and an f/2.4 aperture. This was a notable upgrade from the front cameras on older Nexus devices. It was capable of capturing detailed and well-exposed selfies and could record video in 1080p at 30 fps. While the front camera didn’t have the same advanced features as the main sensor, it was more than capable of handling everyday needs. The camera software was simple and minimalist, in line with the pure Android experience, but it offered key features like panorama, Photo Sphere, and Lens Blur.
Battery Life and Charging
The Huawei Nexus 6P was powered by a non-removable 3450 mAh Li-Po battery, which was a substantial capacity for a phone of its size at the time. Combined with the power-efficient features of Android 6.0 Marshmallow, particularly “Doze” mode, the phone was capable of lasting a full day on a single charge for most users. Doze mode was an innovative feature that put the phone into a deep sleep state when it was left stationary for a period of time, significantly reducing idle battery drain. This was a major advantage for users who often left their phones on a desk or bedside table, as it meant the battery would barely lose any charge overnight. The large battery capacity was a welcome change, as previous Nexus devices were often criticized for having mediocre battery life.
In real-world usage, the battery life of the Nexus 6P was generally considered to be good, though not exceptional. The power-hungry QHD AMOLED display and the Snapdragon 810 processor, which could be less efficient under load, meant that heavy users, especially those who played graphics-intensive games or streamed a lot of video, might need to top up their battery before the end of the day. However, for average usage, including browsing, social media, and some light media consumption, the Nexus 6P could easily handle a full day of use. This made it a reliable daily driver for the vast majority of consumers.
One of the most modern and convenient features of the Nexus 6P was its support for fast charging via the USB Type-C port. The phone came with a 15W wired charger that could charge the device from 0% to a significant percentage in a very short amount of time. This was a game-changer for many users, as it meant they could get hours of use from just a short charging session. Unlike many fast-charging standards from other manufacturers, the Nexus 6P’s fast charging was based on the USB Power Delivery standard, which was more universal and secure. The reversible nature of the USB-C port also made it much more user-friendly, as there was no “wrong” way to plug in the cable.
Software and Connectivity
The software experience on the Huawei Nexus 6P was the epitome of what Google envisioned for Android. It launched with the clean, unadulterated Android 6.0 Marshmallow, a version of the OS that introduced a number of key features. Beyond the aforementioned Doze mode, Marshmallow brought a more granular app permission system, allowing users to control what information their apps could access. It also introduced a system-wide search feature called Google Now on Tap, which provided contextual information based on what was on the screen. The pure Android experience meant that the phone was free of pre-installed bloatware, and the interface was fast, fluid, and intuitive.
As a Nexus device, the 6P was guaranteed to receive timely software updates directly from Google. This was a huge advantage over other Android phones, which often had to wait months for manufacturers to adapt and release new versions of the operating system. The Nexus 6P was one of the first phones to get updates to Android 7.0 Nougat and Android 8.0 Oreo, providing users with the latest features and security patches. This commitment to software longevity and security was a core part of the Nexus brand’s appeal and made the Nexus 6P a long-term investment for users who wanted to stay up-to-date with the latest Android innovations.
In terms of connectivity, the Nexus 6P was well-equipped. It supported a wide range of cellular bands, including GSM, CDMA, HSPA, and LTE, making it compatible with most carriers around the world. It also featured Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac with dual-band support, Bluetooth 4.2 with A2DP and LE, GPS, and NFC for mobile payments with Android Pay. The USB Type-C port was a standout, offering data transfer speeds of up to USB 2.0. While not the fastest standard, the reversible design and power delivery capabilities were a major leap forward in user convenience. The phone also had a single Nano-SIM slot and, like many Nexus phones, did not include an option for an external memory card.
Technical Specifications in Summary
The Huawei Nexus 6P brought a comprehensive set of high-end specifications to the market, showcasing a premium build and powerful performance that set it apart from previous Nexus devices. Its technical sheet paints a picture of a phone that was designed to compete with the best of its generation while staying true to its core identity as a developer-friendly and pure Android device.
- Display: The device featured a 5.7-inch AMOLED display with a Quad HD resolution (2560 x 1440 pixels) and a density of 518 ppi. This provided a visually stunning experience with deep blacks and vibrant colors, making it ideal for multimedia consumption. The screen was protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 4, which was a significant durability improvement over previous generations.
- Processor and RAM: Powering the phone was the Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 v2.1 octa-core processor, a flagship chipset of its time. It was complemented by 3GB of LPDDR4 RAM, which, when paired with the lean, stock Android OS, delivered a very smooth and responsive user experience without any noticeable lag during daily tasks.
- Camera: The Nexus 6P finally offered a top-tier camera experience with its 12.3-megapixel rear sensor. Key features included a large 1.55 µm pixel size for excellent low-light performance, laser autofocus for quick focusing, and a dual-LED flash. It was capable of shooting 4K video at 30fps and produced excellent photos with HDR+.
- Battery: A 3450 mAh non-removable battery provided reliable, all-day power for most users. The battery life was further optimized by Android Marshmallow’s Doze mode, which intelligently conserved power when the phone was idle. The inclusion of a USB Type-C port and fast charging was a major convenience factor.
- Connectivity: The phone supported a wide range of network technologies, from 2G to 4G LTE. It also included modern connectivity features like Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 4.2, and NFC. The reversible USB-C port was a notable addition, providing both charging and data transfer capabilities.
- Storage: The Nexus 6P was available with 32GB, 64GB, or 128GB of internal storage. It did not have a microSD card slot, which was a point of consideration for users who required more storage space for their photos, videos, and apps.
- Build and Features: The device featured an all-metal unibody design made from aeronautical-grade aluminum, giving it a premium feel. It also included a very fast and accurate rear-mounted fingerprint sensor (Nexus Imprint), and dual front-facing stereo speakers for a superior audio experience.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Nexus 6P vs. Competitors
To fully appreciate the Nexus 6P’s standing in the market, it’s useful to compare its specifications to other flagship devices from its launch year. The table below provides a clear snapshot of how the Nexus 6P stacked up against some of its key rivals.
| Feature | Huawei Nexus 6P | Samsung Galaxy S6 | Apple iPhone 6s Plus | LG Nexus 5X |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Display Size & Type | 5.7-inch AMOLED, 1440p. The Nexus 6P’s display was a high-resolution AMOLED panel, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks. | 5.1-inch Super AMOLED, 1440p. The Galaxy S6 had a slightly smaller, equally sharp display with excellent color accuracy and brightness. | 5.5-inch IPS LCD, 1080p. The iPhone 6s Plus featured a lower-resolution but very bright and color-accurate LCD screen. | 5.2-inch IPS LCD, 1080p. The Nexus 5X had a smaller, lower-resolution display that was clear but not as vibrant as its bigger sibling. |
| Processor & RAM | Snapdragon 810, 3GB RAM. This chipset was a powerhouse for its time, providing a smooth experience with stock Android. | Exynos 7420, 3GB RAM. Samsung’s own chipset was highly efficient and delivered top-tier performance without the heat issues of the Snapdragon 810. | Apple A9, 2GB RAM. Apple’s custom processor offered incredible single-core performance and was known for its efficiency and power. | Snapdragon 808, 2GB RAM. A slightly less powerful hexa-core processor, the 5X still offered a fluid experience with its pure Android software. |
| Rear Camera | 12.3MP, f/2.0, no OIS. The Nexus 6P’s camera was a major upgrade, praised for its large pixels and excellent HDR+ mode, despite the lack of OIS. | 16MP, f/1.9, with OIS. The Galaxy S6 had a highly-regarded camera with a wider aperture and OIS, excelling in low light and stability. | 12MP, f/2.2, with OIS. The iPhone 6s Plus camera was known for its reliability, fast shutter speed, and video stabilization. | 12.3MP, f/2.0, no OIS. The Nexus 5X shared the same camera sensor as the 6P, offering a great experience for its price range. |
| Battery Capacity | 3450mAh. A large capacity that, combined with Doze mode, provided reliable all-day battery life. | 2550mAh. A smaller battery that, despite the efficient chipset, often struggled to last a full day for heavy users. | 2750mAh. The iPhone 6s Plus had good battery life, thanks to a combination of its efficient processor and well-optimized software. | 2700mAh. The Nexus 5X had a smaller battery, which combined with the Snapdragon 808, often provided just enough power to get through the day. |
This comparison highlights the key strengths of the Nexus 6P: its premium metal build, high-resolution AMOLED screen, and a camera that finally put the Nexus line in contention with the top camera phones. While some competitors offered different advantages, such as OIS or proprietary software features, the Nexus 6P’s combination of hardware and software made it a compelling choice for consumers and a landmark device for the Nexus brand.