For us, a compact camera is all about portability.
Its built-in lens has a 28mm full-frame equivalent focal length, which gives you a wide field of view but is still versatile enough for street, landscape, or travel photography.
Even with software wizardry like Google Pixel's or two on the back, a good compact camera gives you features like optical zoom, better image stabilization, and a bigger sensor for sharper photos, along with a way nicer dials and controls.
While images need not be taken at a large size if they are destined for use as 4 by 6 10 × 15 cm prints, the large size is recommended if the images will later be trimmed or enlarged.