The Google Pixel lineup has established itself as a formidable competitor among the top-tier smartphones, rivaling the likes of Apple's iPhone and Samsung's Galaxy series. Since the debut of the first Pixel in 2016, Google has continuously evolved its flagship Android smartphones, introducing a variety of models that cater to different needs and preferences. If you're curious about the journey of the Pixel series and how Google has enhanced its offerings over time, you're in for a treat with this comprehensive overview of every Google Pixel smartphone and its release date.
How Many Google Pixel Generations Have There Been?
In total, there have been 17 different Google Pixel generations. This count does not differentiate between Pro or XL models, but includes separate entries for the 'a' series and the Fold series.
AnswerSee ResultsEvery Google Pixel Generation in Order of Release
Google Pixel - October 20, 2016
The inaugural Google Pixel, launched on October 20, 2016, marked the beginning of Google's venture into the smartphone market. This model was one of the first to embrace USB-C technology and boasted a 12.3 megapixel camera. Alongside the standard Pixel, Google also introduced the Pixel XL, which featured a larger screen for those seeking a more expansive display.
Google Pixel 2 - October 17, 2017
The Google Pixel 2, released on October 17, 2017, brought significant enhancements, particularly in the camera department, with the introduction of optical image stabilization. However, it also sparked discussion by removing the traditional headphone jack, though it did address some Bluetooth connectivity issues from its predecessor.
Google Pixel 3 - October 18, 2018
With the Google Pixel 3, released on October 18, 2018, Google made notable advancements. The bezels around the display were significantly reduced, resulting in a sleeker look and a higher resolution screen that increased by 12.5% to a 5.5" display. Additionally, this model introduced wireless charging, offering users the convenience of charging without a USB-C cable.
Google Pixel 3a - May 7, 2019
In 2019, Google ventured into the mid-range market with the Google Pixel 3a, which debuted on May 7. This model offered a more affordable alternative to the flagship Pixel 3, maintaining the high-quality rear camera system while omitting some features to keep costs down. For a detailed insight, you can check out our review of the Pixel 3a.
Google Pixel 4 - October 15, 2019
The Google Pixel 4, launched on October 15, 2019, focused on internal upgrades. It featured a 90Hz display refresh rate and enhanced camera capabilities, including a 2x optical zoom. The RAM was also upgraded to 6GB, up from 4GB in the Pixel 3, enhancing overall performance.
Google Pixel 4a - August 20, 2020
Following the trend of the Pixel 3a, the Google Pixel 4a, released on August 20, 2020, made compromises on some features like the 90Hz refresh rate but compensated with significant improvements in display brightness, reaching a peak of 796 nits. It also boasted better power efficiency, offering an additional four hours of battery life compared to the flagship model.
Google Pixel 5 - October 15, 2020
Battery life took center stage with the Google Pixel 5, released on October 15, 2020. It featured a 4080mAh battery, providing nearly 50% more battery life per charge than the Pixel 4. The Pixel 5 also incorporated the increased display brightness from the Pixel 4a, a fingerprint scanner, and introduced reverse charging, allowing users to charge other devices wirelessly.
Google Pixel 5a - August 26, 2021
The Google Pixel 5a, launched on August 26, 2021, closely resembled the Pixel 5 but featured a slightly larger 6.34" display. While it had a larger 4680mAh battery, it did not support wireless charging, unlike the Pixel 5.
Google Pixel 6 - October 28, 2021
The Google Pixel 6, released on October 28, 2021, introduced a fresh design with cameras integrated into a bar. Despite the advanced technology, it was priced $100 less than the Pixel 5. The camera system saw major improvements, particularly in low-light photography. The Pro version of this model was highly acclaimed and remains a strong contender in the market.
Google Pixel 6a - July 21, 2022
The Google Pixel 6a, which hit the market on July 21, 2022, made some trade-offs, such as reducing the refresh rate to 60Hz and RAM to 6GB. The most notable difference was the main camera sensor, which dropped to 12.2MP from the 50MP on the Pixel 6.
Google Pixel 7 - October 13, 2022
The Google Pixel 7, launched on October 13, 2022, offered subtle yet meaningful upgrades, including an improved fingerprint sensor, a redesigned camera bar, and enhanced performance. While not a groundbreaking update, it was a solid choice for those upgrading from older Pixel models. The larger Pixel 7 Pro was preferred in our comparisons.
Google Pixel 7 (128GB)
0See it at Amazon
Google Pixel 7a - May 10, 2023
The Google Pixel 7a, released on May 10, 2023, featured a 64MP main camera, retained the 90Hz refresh rate, and included 8GB of RAM. Despite being slightly smaller than the Pixel 7, it maintained a similar screen size. Battery life was comparable, but the Pixel 7a supported faster 20W charging for both wired and wireless options.
Google Pixel 7a
8A slightly more budget-friendly version of the Pixel 7, the Pixel 7a offers the same powerful processor, impressive AI features, and decent cameras. See it at Best Buy
Google Pixel Fold - June 20, 2023
The Google Pixel Fold, launched on June 20, 2023, marked a significant shift in the Pixel lineup. This foldable phone boasted a 7.6" display when open and a standard display on the outside for regular smartphone use. It incorporated many of the beloved camera features from the Pixel 7 Pro, and its unique design allowed for versatile camera angles using the phone as a stand.
Google Pixel 8 - October 12, 2023
The Google Pixel 8, released on October 12, 2023, offered a notable upgrade from the Pixel 7 series, with a peak brightness of 2000 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate. It was launched shortly after the innovative Google Pixel Fold.
12Running on a G3 Tensor chip, you’ll enjoy solid cameras, smart AI functions, and a bright, beautiful OLED display for an affordable price. See it at Amazon
Google Pixel 8a - May 14, 2024
The Google Pixel 8a, launched on May 14, 2024, opted for Gorilla Glass 3 instead of Gorilla Glass Victus. While both models feature OLED displays and similar performance, the Pixel 8a's 64MP camera contrasts with the Pixel 8's 50MP camera, offering a higher pixel count but less depth due to the supporting cameras and sensors.
Google Pixel 9 - August 22, 2024
Breaking from tradition, the Google Pixel 9 was released in August 2024. It introduced Satellite SOS features, a new design, and a triple rear camera. The Pro series even upped the ante with 16GB of RAM, marking a significant advancement for the Pixel lineup.
0An elegant design, exceptional cameras, a quality display, and extensive software support make the Pixel 9 Pro a champ among smartphones. See it at Amazon See it at Best Buy
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold - September 4, 2024
The latest addition to the Pixel family, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, was released on September 4, 2024. It features a foldable display that builds on the 2023 Pixel Fold, with a taller and thinner design for a larger screen. Both the front and interior screens are OLED, with the outer display at 6.3 inches and the inner at 8 inches. Equipped with three rear-facing cameras and 16GB of RAM, it stands as Google's premier phone currently.
Preorder the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold 256GB
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When Is the Google Pixel 10 Coming Out?
The Google Pixel 10 lineup, including the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL, is anticipated to be released in the Fall of 2025. While Google traditionally favored October for these launches, the Pixel 9's August 2024 release suggests that the Pixel 10 might follow suit in August 2025.
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