The Pixel 10 series is still a long way off, but there’s already a lot of buzz around what will make this next-gen device stand out from its predecessors.
With rumors of an all-new Tensor G5 chip and improved biometric features, anticipation is building for what could be Google’s most advanced Pixel yet. Especially since the Pixel 9 series hasn’t quite met users’ expectations and our opinions on the Pixel 9 are rather mixed.
Here’s everything we know so far about the upcoming Pixel 10 series.
When will the Google Pixel 10 be released?
At this early stage, there is of course no official release date for the Pixel 10 phones.
However, the series’ codenames have been leaked (via Android Headlines), revealing four models: Pixel 10 (“Frankel”), Pixel 10 Pro (“Blazer”), Pixel 10 Pro XL (“Mustang”), and Pixel 10 Pro. Fold (“Rango”). These names seem to refer to different breeds of horses.
The leak suggests that the Pixel 10 lineup will retain the variety of models seen in the Pixel 9 series, including a continuation of the Pixel 10 Pro model as a compact premium option.
Additionally, the Google Pixel 9a, codenamed “Tegu”, was also mentioned, although this information is not new.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Over the years, Google has had a pretty regular routine when it comes to hardware launches. However, recently the practices have changed with the release of the Pixel 9 series.
Here’s when previous base (non-‘a’) models were released:
- Google Pixel 9 series: August 2024
- Google Pixel 8 series: October 2023
- Google Pixel 7 series: October 2022
- Google Pixel 6 series: October 2021
It’s possible that the Pixel 10 series will follow this year’s models and debut in August 2025. However, Google could return to its usual schedule and launch the Pixel 10 series in October 2025instead.
Learn more about the history of Google Pixel phones
How much will the Google Pixel 10 cost?
As a reminder, here are the launch prices for the Pixel 9 series:
- Google Pixel 9: £799/$799
- Google Pixel 9 Pro: £999/$999
- Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: £1,099/$1,099
- Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: £1,749/$1,799
The standard Pixel 9 costs £100/$100 more than the Pixel 8. The Pixel 9 Pro, on the other hand, is priced the same as the Pixel 8 Pro, presumably so the Pixel 9 Pro XL can be introduced at £100/$100. $100 more.
Finally, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is priced at £1,749/$1,799, the same as the original Pixel Fold.
After a few price hikes, we hope the Pixel 10 series will be priced the same as the previous series.
What specs and features will the Google Pixel 10 have?
Design
The design of the Pixel 10 series is still a matter of speculation, but Google is expected to continue using the new flatter, more industrial look introduced with the Pixel 9 series.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Although the flatter edges are less ergonomic than previous models, it’s possible that Google will opt for a more balanced approach in the Pixel 10 series; merging sleek flat sides with more comfortable curves.
And of course, the new camera “pill” will most likely stay with us for a while.
Display
Google will likely push the boundaries of display technology with the Pixel 10 series.
While the Pixel 9’s 3,000 nit brightness is already impressive, the Pixel 10 could go even further; improving visibility and outdoor performance under direct sunlight. Also expect adaptive refresh rates of 60-120Hz to continue, ensuring smooth scrolling while preserving battery life when full performance isn’t needed.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
One area where improvement is highly anticipated is PWM (Pulse width Modulation) dimming, which affects display flickering and can cause eye strain for some users.
Currently, Google’s display technology flickers at a low frequency of 240Hz, half the rate of the Galaxy S24 series and iPhone 15 series. With competitors like the OnePlus 12’s 2,160Hz PWM rate, The Pixel 10 series is expected to take a more eye-friendly approach. This would make it more comfortable for long-term use, especially in dimly lit environments.
Additionally, wet touch functionality – first introduced with the Pixel 9 series – is expected to continue to improve, allowing users to interact with their phone even when the screen is wet; improving the overall user experience.
Performance and software
The Pixel 10 series’ most significant performance increase will come from the introduction of the company’s own Tensor G5 chip.
According to a report from Business Korea, Google may ditch Samsung and head to TSMC to manufacture its own chipsets. This means that the Tensor G5 could be Google’s first completely in-house design based on TSMC’s 3nm process.
Additionally, a China Times report claims that the Tensor G5 chipset has entered the “registration” phase, meaning the final version of the chip is completed and is ready to enter the manufacturing phase .
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
This chip is expected to resolve performance and heat management issues that plagued previous Tensor chips, thanks to TSMC’s superior manufacturing process. The G5 should also be significantly more efficient, allowing faster processing without overheating during tasks like gaming, video recording, or multitasking.
It’s likely to be paired with 12GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of storage on the standard Pixel 9. On the other hand, the Pixel 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL and 9 Pro Fold can be combined with 16 GB of RAM, and up to 1 TB of storage.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Software and AI
In terms of AI and machine learning, Google’s Tensor processors have already stood out by excelling in these areas, and the Tensor G5 will likely push these capabilities even further.
Expect on-device Gemini AI tasks, such as voice recognition, image processing, and real-time language translation, to become faster and more accurate.
For gaming, the Tensor G5 could finally catch up to Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chips, which have outperformed Tensor chips in graphics-intensive scenarios since Tensor’s debut. Combined with Google’s optimizations for Android 16, the Pixel 10 could become a more viable option for mobile gamers looking for smooth, high-performance experiences.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
The Google Pixel 10 series will most likely launch with Android 16, depending on whether Google introduces the phones in August or October.
Cameras
Google Pixel phones have always been known for their exceptional camera performance, especially in terms of computational photography.
The Pixel 10 series will likely continue to focus on AI-based improvements rather than just hardware upgrades. That said, a larger sensor or new lens configurations could still be considered, that said, the real magic will come from software advancements.
New features could include improvements to night vision, astrophotography and portrait mode; use AI to further improve image quality, even in difficult lighting conditions.
Additionally, Google could improve Video Boost, which debuted in the Pixel 8 series, to deliver even better video stabilization and clarity, making the Pixel 10 a must-have device for mobile videographers.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Another area of improvement could be Zoom Enhance, which uses AI to maintain image clarity at higher zoom levels without the need for massive physical camera sensors.
With Google’s growing focus on AI image processing, it’s likely that the Pixel 10 will go even further, enabling higher quality zoomed shots without adding bulk to the camera system.
Finally, we can expect AI-powered features like “Add Me” and “Reimagine” – which debuted on the Pixel 9 series – to evolve, giving users more creative tools for editing and perfect their photos.
Battery and charging
Battery longevity is always a concern for high-performance smartphones, and the Pixel line has seen mixed results in this area. With the new Tensor G5 chip, we expect better battery efficiency, which could translate into longer-lasting usage even under heavy loads.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
In terms of charging, while fast wired charging will likely remain in the 30-35W range, Google could improve the phone’s wireless charging capabilities. The inclusion of reverse wireless charging could also be more efficient, allowing the Pixel 10 series to quickly charge other devices such as headphones or smartwatches.
That’s everything we currently know about the Pixel 10 series. In the meantime, check out our lists of the best Android phones and the best phones coming in 2024.
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