Ahead of the Google I/O 2017 kick off next week, rumors on the Google Pixel 2 phones continue to pick up and the latest suggested a former Nexus device maker will return for the upcoming versions of the Pure Android flagship. And a new concept has emerged, showcasing handset functionalities that were absent from the original edition.

Like Us on Facebook

A report from South Korea, pointed to by Android Authority, floated the possibility of LG partnering anew with Google for the latter's signature smartphones. LG is no stranger to the task as the company previously took charge of the same duties that produced the Nexus 4, Nexus 5 and the Nexus 5X.

The local report indicated Google is inclined to tap LG for the mass assembly of the Pixel 2018 lineup that likely will consist of three models if rumors are correct that for this year there will be Pixel 2, Pixel XL 2 and Pixel XXL that is supposed to be a hybrid device with basic smartphone functionalities. As part of the supposed renewed Google-LG collaboration, the report said LG will receive $880 million of capital injection for the company to grow their OLED display business.

But according to Android Authority, LG dismissed the report as unfounded. The Korean device maker called its reported deal with Google as "speculation of the highest degree," and insisted it will not comment on "rumors and speculations."

True or not that LG will soon bump off HTC as the favored Pixel maker, the buzz being generated by the Pixel 2 seems to grow by the day and one visualization of the upcoming device was proposed by YouTube channel Concept Creator. The render shared (can be viewed below) imagine the next Pixel with premium specifications that were notably skipped by the first version such dual camera setting with hardware stabilization.

Picking up on the clip, WCCFTech said the Pixel 2017 phones are expected to boast of Snapdragon 835 SoC and minimum 4GB RAM provision plus flagship standard features like wireless charging and water resistance.

Speculations are rife there will be three models of the Pixel 2017 line and they are codenamed Walleye, Muskie and Taimen. While remote, the chance is there Google will give sneak peek of at least one of the device when Android 8.0 Oreo is introduced via the Google I/O 2017 that will start May 17. But the release date will not happen until the second half of the year.