The Google Pixel lineup has established itself as a formidable contender in the smartphone market, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with giants like the Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy series. Since its inception in 2016, Google has continuously innovated with the Pixel series, offering top-notch Android smartphones. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or simply curious about the evolution of these devices, this comprehensive list of every Google Pixel smartphone and their release dates will give you an in-depth look at how Google has refined its flagship lineup over the years.
To date, there have been 17 different Google Pixel generations. This count includes the main series as well as the 'a' and 'Fold' series, but excludes separate listings for Pro or XL models.
The journey began with the original Google Pixel, which hit the market in October 2016. This pioneering device was among the first to embrace USB-C technology and featured a robust 12.3-megapixel camera. Google offered both the standard Pixel and the Pixel XL, the latter boasting a larger screen.
The Google Pixel 2 followed a year later in October 2017, introducing significant camera enhancements, including optical image stabilization. However, it stirred some controversy by removing the headphone jack, though it did address Bluetooth issues from the original model.
With the Google Pixel 3, released in October 2018, users noticed a significant design shift. The bezels were reduced, enhancing the screen-to-body ratio, and the resolution was bumped up by 12.5% to a 5.5-inch display. This model also introduced wireless charging, a feature eagerly anticipated by users.
In 2019, Google expanded its range with the mid-range Google Pixel 3a, released on May 7. This model, while less feature-rich than its flagship counterpart, retained the impressive back camera system. For detailed insights, you can check out our review of the Pixel 3a.
The Google Pixel 4, launched on October 15, 2019, focused on internal upgrades. It boasted a 90Hz refresh rate, enhanced camera capabilities with a 2x optical zoom, and an increased RAM of 6GB, up from the 4GB in the Pixel 3.
The Google Pixel 4a, introduced on August 20, 2020, sacrificed some features like the 90Hz refresh rate but compensated with a significantly brighter display, peaking at 796 nits, and improved power efficiency, adding four extra hours of battery life compared to the Pixel 4.
Battery life was a key focus with the Google Pixel 5, released on October 15, 2020. It featured a 4080mAh battery, nearly 50% more capacity than the Pixel 4, along with the enhanced display brightness from the Pixel 4a and a fingerprint scanner. It also introduced reverse wireless charging.
The Google Pixel 6, launched on October 28, 2021, made waves with its new camera bar design and was priced $100 less than its predecessor. It offered significant camera improvements, especially in low-light conditions. The Pixel 6 Pro model was particularly well-received.
The Google Pixel 6a, released on July 21, 2022, scaled back to a 60Hz refresh rate and 6GB RAM from the Pixel 6's 8GB. Its main camera was reduced to 12.2MP from the 50MP of the Pixel 6.
The Google Pixel 7, launched on October 13, 2022, offered subtle but meaningful upgrades, including an improved fingerprint sensor and a redesigned camera bar. While not a dramatic leap, it was a solid choice for those upgrading from older models. The Pixel 7 Pro was particularly favored in our comparisons.
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The Google Pixel 7a, released on May 10, 2023, included a 64MP main camera and retained the 90Hz refresh rate and 8GB of RAM. Despite being slightly smaller, it matched the Pixel 7's battery life but supported faster 20W charging.
8A slightly more budget-friendly option compared to the Pixel 7, the Pixel 7a offers the same powerful processor, impressive AI features, and solid camera performance. See it at Best Buy
The Google Pixel Fold, launched on June 20, 2023, marked Google's entry into the foldable smartphone market. It featured a 7.6-inch display when open and incorporated many of the beloved camera features from the Pixel 7 Pro, with a unique design allowing for versatile camera angles.
The Google Pixel 8, released on October 12, 2023, boasted a peak brightness of 2000 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate, offering substantial improvements over the Pixel 7.
12Powered by the G3 Tensor chip, the Pixel 8 delivers impressive camera capabilities, smart AI functions, and a vibrant OLED display at a competitive price. See it at Amazon
The Google Pixel 8a, launched on May 14, 2024, opted for Gorilla Glass 3 over the Victus used in the Pixel 8. While both share similar OLED displays and performance, the Pixel 8a features a 64MP camera, differing from the Pixel 8's 50MP main camera.
Breaking tradition, the Google Pixel 9 was released in August 2024. It introduced Satellite SOS features, a new design, and a triple rear camera system. The Pro model even came with 16GB of RAM.
0With its elegant design, top-tier cameras, quality display, and robust software support, the Pixel 9 Pro stands out as a top smartphone. See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy
The latest in the Pixel lineup, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, was released on September 4, 2024. It features a taller and thinner foldable display, with OLED screens on both the 6.3-inch outer and 8-inch inner display. It also boasts three rear-facing cameras and 16GB of RAM.
0See it at Amazon
Anticipation is building for the Google Pixel 10 lineup, which is expected to include the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL. While traditionally released in October, the shift to an August launch with the Pixel 9 suggests that the Pixel 10 might also debut in August 2025. Keep an eye out for more updates as the release date approaches.
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