Upcoming Google Pixel 10: A Familiar Look with Major Internal Upgrades
The upcoming Google Pixel 10 is expected to maintain a design that closely resembles its predecessor, according to early hints from the company. However, an array of leaks suggests that this year’s focus will be on internal enhancements, including significant upgrades to hardware and AI capabilities.
Although the Pixel 10 series won’t officially launch until the Made by Google 2025 event on 20 August, the internet has already provided a detailed glimpse into the new lineup. This is expected to include the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and the Pixel 10 Pro Fold. With reports pointing to a powerful new Tensor chip and a major camera upgrade for the entry-level model, the Pixel 10 could be one of the top smartphones of 2025.
Release Date and Availability
Google’s Made by Google 2025 event is scheduled for 20 August, where the entire Pixel 10 lineup will be unveiled. The company typically follows a consistent pattern for its major hardware launches. It is anticipated that pre-orders will go live on the same day as the announcement, shortly after the event concludes. The phones are likely to be released and shipped to customers around two weeks later, which would place the sales date in early September.
Price Expectations
Early leaks suggest that Google may keep the prices of the main Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro models similar to last year’s Pixel 9. This could mean a price of £799 for the standard Pixel 10 and £999 for the larger Pixel 10 Pro. A report indicates that Google might add value by bundling free trials for services such as Google’s AI Pro subscription, Fitbit Premium, and YouTube Premium. These added benefits could make the overall package more appealing without increasing the cost.
Design and Display
For those hoping for a radical redesign, the Pixel 10 might not deliver. Leaked images suggest that the design will be nearly identical to the Pixel 9, retaining the pill-shaped camera island. This means the dimensions will be very similar to last year’s models, with reports of the return of the excellent 6.3-inch and 6.8-inch Actua displays.
A notable change reported by Android Authority is the introduction of MagSafe-style magnetic charging based on the latest Qi2 standard. This feature would allow the Pixel 10 to snap onto a range of magnetic accessories, such as charging docks and car mounts, enhancing user convenience.
Colours and Variants
Leaked imagery has given a good idea of the potential colour options for the Pixel 10. The entry-level model is expected to come in four shades: ultra blue, limoncello (yellow), iris (purple), and midnight. The Pro models are said to arrive in sterling grey, light porcelain, midnight, and smoky green. A new blue-grey moonstone colour is also rumoured to be available across the entire series.
Marketing images from German tech site WinFuture have confirmed the blue-grey moonstone colour and the classic obsidian shade for the Pixel 10 XL.
Specifications and Performance
While the exterior design remains similar, the Pixel 10 is set to bring significant improvements under the hood. The headline upgrade is the new Tensor G5 chip, which is expected to enhance AI and machine learning performance. One leak mentions an improved on-board assistant called Pixel Sense, which will offer proactive and contextual help across different apps.
Android Headlines also reports improvements to the speakers and upgraded camera stabilisation for smoother video recording. Battery life is tipped for a boost, with one source claiming up to 100 hours of power when in Extreme Battery Saver mode.
Camera Enhancements
One of the most significant hardware upgrades is expected to be the camera system, particularly for the standard Pixel 10. For the first time, the entry-level model is rumoured to have a dedicated zoom lens, a feature previously reserved for the Pro models. This will reportedly join a 50MP wide lens with macro focus and a 13MP ultrawide lens.
The Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL are expected to have an even more impressive array, featuring a 50MP wide lens, a 48MP ultrawide with macro focus, and a periscope telephoto lens. This setup is said to enable a staggering 100x zoom, thanks to an improved “Pro Res Zoom” feature that uses AI and clever pixel binning techniques.
Final Thoughts
While the Pixel 10 may not immediately stand out with its design, the rumors suggest it could be one of the most significant under-the-hood upgrades in the series’ history. The inclusion of a zoom lens for the entry-level model, a powerful new Tensor G5 chip, smarter AI features, and the convenience of magnetic charging all point to a compelling flagship device.
If you’re looking for a great smartphone, there are several top-rated models from Samsung, Apple, and other brands available for testing.
