Google is expected to introduce the second-generation Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones in October this year. The company is already rumoured to be working on these smartphones under the codenames Walleye and Muskie respectively, along with a third device codenamed Taimen. Now, Android Police reports that Google has cancelled second generation of the Pixel XL smartphone in order to concentrate on the Taimen. The website notes that the information is based on reports from three different sources. There is very little information about Google Pixel XL 2 (Muskie), and the reasons for its purpoted discontinuation are unknown.
Taimen is tipped to be a larger device than the Muskie and Walleye. With smartphone makers adopting a new design language with thinner bezels for their flagship this year, Google might be planning to launch 'Taimen' as its second smartphone instead of previously rumoured Muskie.
At the time of the launch of the Pixel last year, Google confirmed that it plans to launch two smartphones a year. Something it did with the Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P. HTC is said to be the preferred hardware partner for 2017, while Coolpad, LG and TCL are reportedly bidding for the 2018 versions of the phone.