Pixel 10 release date expectations, price estimates, and upgrades
The Google Pixel 9 will see its predecessor come in 2025. | Image credit – PhoneArena
Google Pixel 10: the anniversary job! Can you believe the Google Pixel will soon be stepping in the double-digit naming (numbering) era?! Well, if we include the Nexus phones, we're looking at fifteen solid years of Google smartphones. Time does fly.
Will the Pixel 10 be special, will it commemorate its anniversary? Let's check things out!
The most interesting thing about the Pixel 10 (so far) is its chipset, the Tensor G5. It marks a pivotal moment for Google's chipset lineup, as it will be the first fully in-house design produced by TSMC using an advanced 3nm process, promising significant improvements in performance and efficiency over previous models.
While this represents a major step forward, first-generation technology often faces challenges, and Google's initial attempt may require refinement in future iterations. Despite the risks, the Pixel 10 and its Tensor G5 hold exciting potential to elevate the Pixel series to new heights.
On the outside, no major changes are expected of the Pixel 10. This means that the handset will resemble an iPhone in many ways. But so does Samsung's recent Galaxy, so: it is what it is. Some will find it stylish and sleek, others – a bit boring and conservative.
In terms of features and tricks, I expect the Pixel 10 to be chock-full of AI and AI-related whistles and bells. If this is your thing: congratulations, there’s a lid for every pot. If you detest AI (but love the Pixel project), get ready to dive deep down those Settings menus and turn things off.
The main question is: will the Pixel 10 be a true, real upgrade in the spirit of (older) Pixel phones… or are we looking at another uninspiring touch up?
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Pixel 10 release date
The Pixel 10 will probably arrive in August 2025.
Once upon a time, for many years in a row, Pixel phones were deep in the habit of arriving in the middle of the Fall. Announcement events were held almost exclusively in October. The Pixel 9 line put an end to that tradition and it arrived in August. I expect the same to happen in 2025.
Usually, there's a several day buffer period between the announcement and the availability, but the Pixel 10 should be up for pre-orders on the same day of its unveiling.
| Device family | Announcement | Market release |
|---|---|---|
| Pixel 10 | August 2025* | August 2025* |
| Pixel 9 | August 13, 2024 | August 22, 2024 |
| Pixel 8 | October 4, 2020 | October 11, 2020 |
* - probable dates
Pixel 10 price and deals
The Pixel 10 could get more expensive, not just because it seems that everything is on the rise, but because the Pixel 10 will most likely pack a brand-new in-house chipset: the Tensor G5. We'll talk about it extensively in a moment, but for the time being, its enough to know that the Tensor G5 could very well send the Pixel 10 price in a direction none of us actually wants to go.
If the $100 price hike that Google introduces year after year – in three consecutive years, to be precise – happens once more, we're now steady in the ~$1,000 range. That's crazy, given what one could get for well below $1,000 nowadays (if one doesn't mind getting a phone outside the Apple/Samsung/Google triumvirate).
| iPhone model | 128GB of storage | 256GB of storage |
|---|---|---|
| Pixel 10 | $899* | $959* |
| Pixel 9 | $799 | $859 |
| Pixel 8 | $699 | $759 |
| Pixel 7 | $599 | $659 |
*- anticipated prices
Pixel 10 deals to expect:
- T-Mobile: Of course, nothing is yet official (the phone isn't out yet!), but we can draw some conclusions about the expected Pixel 10 offers, judging from the current Pixel 9 deals at T-Mobile. For example, one could get the Pixel 9 for free with an eligible trade-in on Go5G Plus or Go5G Next plans via 24 monthly bill credits (don't forget the $35 device connection charge).
- AT&T: Judging from Pixel 9 offers by AT&T, the Pixel 10 should also see some cool discounts. The Pixel 9, for example, could be obtained for $10.99/mo. with an installment plan (for 36 months) down from its $849.99 retail price.
- Verizon: I guess the Pixel 10 will see some pretty solid discounts from Verizon. That's the case with the Pixel 9. If you're a new customer, Verizon gives you the option to save up to $800 (with or without a trade-in), but a new line is required for the Pixel 9. It's only natural. Updating an existing Verizon line could land you the Pixel 9 for free after credit of $22.22/mo for 36 months on your Verizon mobile bill.
Pixel 10 camera
The big news is that the Pixel 10 is allegedly getting another camera – a telephoto one. It's probably packing the 11MP Samsung 3J1 telephoto sensor, used in the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
There's a catch, though: the new zoom camera might mean that the Pixel 10's other two cameras get somewhat downgraded. For the Pixel 10 main camera sensor, leaks claim that Google will use a Samsung GN8 sensor, which is physically smaller than the GNV (this one was used in the Pixel 9). Meanwhile, the ultra-wide camera on the Pixel 10 is apparently switching to the Sony IMX712 sensor, which replaces the more advanced IMX858 (from Pixel 9).
The aforementioned two sensor were used in the Pixel 9a, which is far cheaper than the flagship Pixel line.
So, to recap what the Pixel 10 is expected to get:
- Main camera: 50MP Samsung GN8 sensor
- Ultra-wide camera: 13MP Sony IMX712 sensor
- Zoom camera: 11MP Samsung 3J1 sensor
Google's Pixel phones have been the go-to choice for many people around the world: and there's a reason for it. Google's magic algorithms made it possible for smaller camera sensors to produce some pretty solid pictures and video clips.
Though the Pixel 10 (and the Pixel 11, for that matter) is still far from launch, leaks have provided early details about their anticipated camera features. A report cites leaked documents from Google's gChips division and highlights new tools powered by the Tensor G5 chip, expected to debut with the Pixel 10.
Among the expected features are:
- "Video Generative ML": an AI-powered tool designed to simplify video editing by understanding video content.
- "Speak-to-Tweak": for mighty fast photo editing.
- "Sketch-to-Image": this could turn user sketches into images like Galaxy phones already do.
Hardware improvements are also on the horizon. The Tensor G5 chip might enable 4K 60fps HDR video, a notable upgrade from the current 4K 30fps limit. While we're at it, check this out: the Pixel 11 is rumored to introduce 100x zoom capabilities for photos and videos, supported by advanced machine learning and a next-gen telephoto camera. Cinematic Blur, a popular feature, may see enhancements allowing 4K recording at 30fps with new "video relight" options for adjusting lighting during video capture. These updates would be powered by a "Cinematic Rendering Engine", which promises better energy efficiency while enabling these advanced effects.
Another exciting development is "Ultra Low Light video," or "Night Sight video," expected to debut with the Pixel 11. Unlike the current Night Sight feature that relies on cloud processing, this version would work entirely on-device and perform well in dim lighting as low as 5-10 lux. This improvement could benefit from upgraded camera hardware, allowing users to capture high-quality videos in challenging lighting conditions.
It'd be great if these debuted on the Pixel 10!
Pixel 10 storage
The Pixel 10 is the "vanilla" flagship model of the series, so don't expect anything too crazy about its storage options. I'd be surprised if it offers anything but the standard 128 or 256 GB free space for photos, videos, and GIFs. That's a lot of GIFs.
It's curious whether Google will continue to pack the same UFS 3.1 storage and LPDDR5X RAM that the previous model offers.
Pixel 10 storage capacity:
- 128 GB
- 256 GB
Pixel 10 design
The Pixel 10 is claimed to arrive with 152.8 x 72 x 8.6mm dimension, and we already have a render to marvel at, thanks to reputable leaker OnLeaks and Android Headlines.
It looks... prety much the same as its predecessor.
The device is expected to have a total thickness of around 12mm, with the camera bump adding approximately 2mm.
Based on the leaked render, the bezels also appear unchanged from last year, which may not come as a surprise. While some users always hope for slimmer borders, the design seems to be staying consistent, at least in this regard. In keeping with the company's distinctive design choices, the volume button will likely remain on the right side of the device beneath the power button, a layout that sets it apart from most other smartphones.
Leaked Pixel 10 case. | Image credit – Sonny Dickson
Previously, prominent leaker Sonny Dickson shared an image claiming to show a phone case for the upcoming Pixel 10. The design of the cutout suggests that the rear camera bar on the 2025 base model will remain largely unchanged. The case also indicates that the Pixel 10 will retain its rounded corners.
Pixel 10 display
| Phone Model | Screen size | Brightness |
|---|---|---|
| Pixel 10 | 6.3-inch* | 3,000* |
| Pixel 9 | 6.3-inch | 2,700 |
* - anticipated specs
If the Pixel 10 inherits the display features of the Pixel 9, we might get a pretty decent panel.
The Pixel 9’s screen features thinner, perfectly uniform bezels and a significant boost in peak brightness, reaching 2700 nits—35% brighter than the previous model. I hope the Pixel 10 could squeeze some extra nits of brightness, though.
In terms of size, it's a "compact" flagship: it's a 6.3-inch OLED panel with a resolution of 1080 x 2424, a 20:9 aspect ratio, and a variable refresh rate of 60-120Hz, along with HDR support.
The Pixel 10 should also come with a new ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, which is 50% faster than the optical sensors used in earlier Pixel models. This technology, commonly found in Samsung's Galaxy flagship phones, is a true blessing. The display on the Pixel 10 should be protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2 (at minimum), offering improved durability.
Pixel 10 battery
Could it be that the Pixel 10 will arrive with pretty much the same battery as the Pixel 9? Let's hope it doesn't. Let's hope it packs something closer to 5,000 mAh capacity.
If the Pixel 10’s battery is indeed similar to the Pixel 9’s, this means a 4700mAh cell, slightly larger than on the Pixel 8, and it's claimed to deliver over 24 hours of use. With the Extreme Battery Saver mode, it can reportedly last up to 100 hours. Compared to the Pixel 8, Google states that the Pixel 9’s battery life is 20% longer, a trend the Pixel 10 might continue that trend.
Charging performance on the Pixel 9 also saw improvements that could carry over to the Pixel 10. The Pixel 9 supports faster charging, reaching 1-55% in about 30 minutes with Google’s new 45W fast charger. This is a step up from the Pixel 8, which achieved 1-50% in the same time but with a less powerful 30W charger. Whether the Pixel 10 will maintain or improve upon these advancements remains to be seen.
Charging performance on the Pixel 9 also saw improvements that could carry over to the Pixel 10. The Pixel 9 supports faster charging, reaching 1-55% in about 30 minutes with Google’s new 45W fast charger. This is a step up from the Pixel 8, which achieved 1-50% in the same time but with a less powerful 30W charger. Whether the Pixel 10 will maintain or improve upon these advancements remains to be seen.
Pixel 10 features and software
In terms of software performance and features, the Pixel 9 should shine bright like a piece of polished platinum: the latest Android experience, mighty AI tricks; Pixel-exclusive tricks; improved virtual assistant, and more.
Google is gearing up to launch Pixel Sense, formerly known as Pixie, alongside the Pixel 10 lineup. This new smart assistant promises a revolutionary level of context awareness, utilizing data from various Google services like Calendar, Gmail, and Maps to deliver highly personalized experiences directly on Pixel devices.
Unlike its predecessors, Pixel Sense will process all data on-device, ensuring enhanced privacy and security.
What's more: seven years of updates! There are only few of us (of "you", really) out there who'll use the same phone for seven years straight, but it doesn't matter: the idea of your phone getting support for seven years is really cool.
Pixel 10 hardware and specs
Pixel 10 specs:
- CPU: Tensor G5
- RAM: 12 GB
- Battery: 4,700 mAh (although 5,000 mAh would be even better)
- Charging: Up to ~30W wired (with Google adapter), up to ~15W wireless
- Storage: 128/256 GB
- Camera setup: Dual on the back and a selfie.
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, NFC, and more.
Note: these are expected specs.
Unlike its predecessors – the G1 through G4, which were modified versions of Samsung's Exynos chips manufactured by Samsung Foundry – the Tensor G5 will be entirely designed by Google and produced by TSMC using its cutting-edge second-generation 3nm process. This advanced 3nm technology allows more transistors to fit on the chip, improving both performance and efficiency compared to the 4nm designs used in earlier models.
While the Tensor G5 represents a major leap for Google, being the company’s first fully in-house chipset, it also comes with risks. Initial iterations of new technology often face challenges, and it may take until the second generation for Google to truly refine the design. Though the Pixel 10 and its Tensor G5 promise exciting advancements, expectations should be tempered as Google navigates the complexities of this ambitious undertaking.
Also, the new SoC is expected to drive substantial performance enhancements in next year's Pixel 10 series and we might get Qi2. See, Google opted not to adopt the Qi2 wireless charging standard for the Pixel 9 series.
Qi2 offers faster charging speeds of up to 15W and improved efficiency, thanks to its Magnetic Power Profile, which ensures perfect coil alignment to reduce energy loss as heat and preserve battery lifespan. Google's decision to forego Qi2 on the Pixel 9 leaves room for speculation about whether the Pixel 10 will finally embrace this more efficient charging standard.
If all goes according to plan, the Tensor G5 chipset has the potential to usher in a new era for Pixel devices, promising the exceptional performance users have long anticipated from Google's flagship phones.
Before you get too excited about the fact that Google is shifting production to TSMC's advanced 3nm process node for the G5, recent reports suggest that despite these advancements, the G5 may not deliver a significant performance boost over the Tensor G4, raising concerns about its competitive edge:
Image source – X
The GPU (the graphics processor unit that's pretty important for games, graphics-demanding apps and animations) on the Tensor G5 might be Imagination Technologies DXT GPU. The Tensor G4 featured an Arm Mali GPU from Samsung.
The rumored GPU, likely Imagination’s DXT-48-1536, is expected to offer enhanced ray tracing, improved power efficiency, and superior rendering performance, establishing a new standard for mobile graphics.
Remember, that's not a Pro
Of course, that's not a maxed-out Pro/Ultra flagship. That's an "ordinary", "vanilla" flagship: it's good for everyday tasks and people who really execute them on a daily basis. Such phones are not meant for super-heavy use: they don't have the capacity to take on heavy loads of usage. But if you want your everyday job done – no fuss, no muss – the Pixel 10 should be perfect!
I don't think the Pixel 10 will come with more than 12 GB of RAM, but what's the point? It's plenty as it is. The battery should increase in capacity, plus the charging speeds could be updated a bit, but the most important thing on the Pixel 10 remains the Tensor G5.
Apart from the chipset, the upcoming Google Pixel 10 series is set to make a significant change by opting for MediaTek's T900 modem instead of the usual Qualcomm or Samsung solutions. This unexpected move marks a departure from Qualcomm, long favored for flagship Android phones, and Samsung's criticized modems.
The MediaTek T900, though details remain scarce, represents MediaTek's advancement into flagship territory, potentially enhancing 5G capabilities. While concerns linger about past performance issues with Exynos modems, Google likely conducted thorough evaluations before this decision. The success of the Pixel 10 series will hinge on how well the MediaTek T900 performs in real-world scenarios, offering users a promising alternative in the competitive smartphone market.
The phone is expected to boot very fast – in fact, 30% faster, if this leak holds true. While flagship phones nowadays are snappy when turned on, the Pixel 10 might be a champion among them.
Should I wait for the Pixel 10?
- You should wait for the Pixel 10 if you are after the most up-to-date chipset experience. If you want to see what TSMC and Google's cooperation will feel like, you should definitely wait. Also, if you don't need the absolute best in terms of specs, the Pixel 10 is perfect: anything else is overkill. An expensive overkill, mind you. Speaking of money, you'll probably have to save a bit more for the Pixel 10!
- You should not wait for the Pixel 10 if you're happy with your phone that you recently got. If you prefer budget-friendly devices, the Pixel 10 is also not the one for you – not with the rumored price hike!
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