Source: Android Central
What you need to know
- A leaked phone prototype claiming of the Pixel 5 has surfaced on social media today.
- The design is reminiscent of the two-toned shell donned by older Pixels.
- Some people speculate it may be an older prototype of the Pixel 4a 5G instead.
Google's Pixel 5 has already been leaked six ways from Sunday, but a new leak today on social media (via 9to5Google) shows us something different from the usual. It's a look at "what it could have been," the path that Google didn't take when building this phone.
When Google first introduced the Pixel line, it did so with a series of two-toned devices. This included the Pixel, the Google Home, and the original Pixelbook. With the Pixel 4, Google moved away from that into the simple, single-toned design that we now see on its current hardware. This new leaked prototype shows that Google was once considering resurrecting that design.
Source: Twitter
It's not clear what the materials would have been, perhaps glass or maybe some kind of glossy plastic. It's worth noting that some on social media have speculated it to be a Pixel 4a 5G based on the headphone jack. It's also equally worth noting that the Pixel 4a 5G and 5 are so similar they were once to be launched both as variants of the Pixel 5, so the truth here may simply be a matter of perspective.
What is clear is that this is simply a design direction Google explored and later scrapped. It's not something you should expect to see in any fancy power points or leaked store renders anytime soon.
Personally, I liked the two-tone design that was last seen on the Pixel 3a. It stood out from other phones. Google's new uni-tone design still strikes a chord, but one that's more subdued.
In any case, Pixel 5 will be coming next week. It'll ship in two colors, one black and one green. It probably won't have the very top of the line specs, but it'll set you back only $599. Not a bad bargain.
We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.

Here are the best places to get your hands on the OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro
The OnePlus 9 smartphones are here, and now you might be thinking, "where can I buy them?" Android Central has you covered!

Got a new Chromebook? You need these 15 tips and tricks!
Every Chromebook is a powerful tool that's just waiting to be used to its full potential, and once you know a few tricks you'll feel like you're getting even more value out of your inexpensive computer.

PS5 update adds USB storage for all games, SSD expansion is 'on the way'
Sony's PS5 will start receiving its first major software update tomorrow. The update brings the ability to store games on USB extended storage and share gameplay across PS5 and PS4 consoles.

Get one of these car chargers so your Pixel 5 doesn't die while on the road
Driving with your phone doesn't necessarily use any more power than when it's on your desk, but streaming music to your car and using it for navigation does. This is why it's important to make sure you have the right car charger for the Pixel 5 to ensure you're charging it to the best of its ability. Here are some of the best car chargers for the Pixel 5.