So in the end, Google had nothing up its sleeve and it was all bluffs

The Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL came as no surprise at today's Google event. What we have seen through leaks over the past couple of months is exactly the same devices we saw on stage. Although there were some interesting new software elements, for the most part, things played out exactly as anticipated.

While this isn't a huge surprise, as it isn't the first time that leaks have managed to take the excitement out of many events over the past few years. But what makes this interesting particular event more interesting is that Google tried to play the public by attempting to cast doubt on all of the leaks of the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL that were seen many months prior to the event.

Although there have been rumors for quite some time about a "Pixel Ultra" with its nearly bezel-less notch free display, it wasn't until Jon Prosser of Front Page Tech (FPT) made a video, that it got more people talking about its possibility. In the video, the YouTuber explained how Google reached out to him and other creators on the platform, wanting to use clips of them talking negatively about the upcoming Pixel 3 XL and its design. This got the hype machine up and running, with Prosser suggesting that this could be a good indication that Google has something up its sleeve.

Unfortunately for many, this was not the case. As Google revealed its Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL, the phones appeared just as they have in prior unofficial leaks and unboxing videos. Those holding out for a "one more thing" moment, were left disappointed. So it's kind of funny to go back and see how hard Google tried to bluff its way through the week, with nonsense tweets that were meant to instigate doubt in those that had already blown the cover off of its devices way ahead of schedule.

Maybe next year, Google will be able to keep the lid on its devices much better or even offer a design that many will feel excited about. For now though, you'll have to be content with either looking away or heading to the pre-order page to get yourself a new Pixel device.