India, Aug. 19 -- At first glance, the Pixel 11 does not look like Google is trying to reinvent the smartphone. Then you notice the camera bar. Pick it up, and the story changes a little. The new design feels cleaner, the frame is flatter, and the light blue Frost finish (the unit I got is Frost) gives it a low-key look rather than screaming for attention. But the interesting part is what Google has packed underneath that familiar silhouette. After spending a couple of days with the phone, there are a few things that stand out. Some are immediately visible. Others take a bit of digging to uncover.

Google has refined its Pixel design language for the Pixel 11 rather than taking it in a completely different direction. The most obvious chan...