Google Nexus 2016 is one of the most anticipated smartphones of the year, but it looks like avid Nexus fans that have been waiting with bated breath for the next Nexus smartphone are in for a huge disappointment.

If recently surfaced reports are anything to go by, the much-lauded Nexus line is on the verge of getting axed and being replaced by the new Google Pixel series. In fact, rumors are rife about Google gearing up to announce Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones on October 4.

Rumor mills have been churning a slew of speculations around the purported Nexus devices, even hinting that HTC is manufacturing Marlin and Sailfish smartphones. Apparently, these devices will not hit the store shelves as Nexus products but they will be launched as Google Pixel and Google Pixel XL smartphones, Android Police reported.

If rumors proved to be true, these devices will publicized as first smartphone manufactured by the search engine giant. This contradicts previous reports that hinted HTC is making both the phones. However, just like the Google Pixel C, the tech firm will be mainly in charge for the industrial design of both Pixel and Pixel XL, while HTC is nothing more than a manufacturing partner.

Although this piece of news does not come straight from the horse's mouth, there are several other signs that uphold the claims. For instance, there is no successor slated to make an appearance for Nexus Player in near future. Also, The Google Pixel C is the latest tablet from Google. More importantly, the fact that none of Google's recent products sports the Nexus moniker, cements the claims made by the recent reports.

Google Pixel, Pixel XL Launch Date

Last month, Droid Life confirmed October 4 as the Google Nexus 2016 release date, citing a reliable source. Several other tech publications confirmed that Google would unveil phones on October 4. The said phones are likely to be branded as Pixel and Pixel XL.

The Google Pixel is rumored to be a pocket-friendly smartphone that would come with a 5-inch screen, and it is codenamed as Sailfish. The Google Pixel XL, on the other hand, is said to be a larger device, sporting a mammoth 5.5-inch screen and loaded with an array of premium features. It is codenamed as Marlin.

The Pixel phone will reportedly be powered by the Snapdragon 820 SoC, coupled with 3GB of RAM, whereas the Pixel XL is likely to come with the Snapdragon 821 chipset with 4GB of RAM. The former is speculated to pack a 2,770 mAh battery, while the larger phone will boast a robust 3,450 mAh battery.

Aside from Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones, Google is likely to announce a 4K Chromecast, a Daydream View device and shed more light on Google Home on October 4.

Watch the footage on whether Google is actually dumping the Nexus lineup and let us know what you think in the comment section below!