Google made a list of everything they could do wrong, and proceeded to do it -
- try to copy iPhone looks, the white color vs black for all previous Nexus devices, the ugly circular icons
- copy iPhone pricing exactly
- remove wireless charging, remove Front stereo speakers
- add a massive bezel that does absolutely nothing
- make the XL even smaller than the 6 and 6P
- make sure to offer it on a single US carrier, make sure its locked on that as well
- not promise updates beyond 2 years
- get rid of the Nexus branding and all its goodwill and loyalty
- add no new features (oh I forgot, stupid VR)
Really the ONLY good thing about these phones is unlimited backup on Photos. You can get a Axon 7, Moto, Note 7, LG, OnePlus 3 pretty much every Android phone is just as good or better and will get updates, be supported and have more features. And have better resale.