New Google Pixel could bring improved camera and ‘budget' model for emerging markets

In the marketplace: Google's Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones are currently available in the USA, Germany, Australia, Canada and the UK.

Google's next-generation Pixel smartphones are expected to get a tougher build and an upgraded camera.

The first leaks on the subject suggest that the search giant's next-gen Pixel smartphones could get fully dust- and water-resistant builds. Google also apparently plans to improve the onboard camera, particularly low-light performances. However, it's as yet unclear whether the upgrades will come from new hardware elements via the sensor or from software upgrades via the camera app. The camera is already a major selling point for Google's current Pixel handsets, billed as the "highest-rated smartphone camera ever."