The Google Pixel and Pixel XL are the first “made by Google” smartphones. Even though HTC had assembled the device, the industrial design of the phone was provided by Google and they were also as Google products. This year, Google is expected to release two Pixel smartphones that are allegedly codenamed as Walleye and Taimen. Fresh information suggest that the Taimen phone could be manufactured by LG.
The Android Issue Tracker’s bug report has an entry related to an issue with USB Power Delivery. The entry seems to have been made by an LG employee. A Googler responded to it by suggesting to close it and place it under Android > Partner > External > LGE> Taimen > Power. This indicates that the Google Pixel XL 2 could be built by LG. David Ruddock, an editor with AndroidPolice.com also says that he can independently confirm that LG is building the Pixel XL 2.
Recent rumors have revealed that a smartphone codenamed as Muskie that was expected to launch as Pixel XL 2 has been canceled. Instead, Google is likley to release the Taimen smartphone as Pixel XL 2. It is expected to come with a larger display and dual rear camera module. There is no confirmation on whether LG will be also manufacturing the smaller Pixel 2 smartphone.
