The Google Pixel lineup stands tall among the giants in the smartphone industry, rivaling the likes of Apple's iPhone and Samsung's Galaxy series. Since its inception in 2016, Google has consistently evolved the Pixel, cementing its status as a top-tier Android smartphone. For those eager to delve into the evolution of this flagship series, now is the perfect time to explore the journey of each Google Pixel model and their respective release dates.
How Many Google Pixel Generations Have There Been?
To date, there have been **17 different Google Pixel generations**. This count encompasses the main series but does not include separate listings for Pro or XL models. However, we do include distinct Pixel models such as the a and Fold series.
For the tech enthusiasts wondering about their upgrade cycles, here's a quick poll:
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Every Google Pixel Generation in Order of Release
Google Pixel - October 20, 2016
The journey began with the Google Pixel, launched in October 2016. As one of the pioneers in adopting USB-C technology, it featured a 12.3-megapixel camera. Available in both Pixel and Pixel XL variants, the latter boasted a larger display.
Google Pixel 2 - October 17, 2017
A year later, in October 2017, the Google Pixel 2 hit the market with enhanced camera capabilities, including optical image stabilization. Notably, this model removed the headphone jack but addressed some Bluetooth issues from its predecessor.
Google Pixel 3 - October 18, 2018
The Google Pixel 3, launched in October 2018, featured significantly slimmer bezels and a higher resolution screen, marking a 12.5% increase and a shift to a 5.5" display. It also introduced wireless charging, freeing users from the constraints of USB-C cables.
Google Pixel 3a - May 7, 2019
In 2019, Google entered the mid-range market with the Google Pixel 3a, a more affordable counterpart to the flagship Pixel 3. While it omitted some features, it retained the flagship's impressive back camera system. Check out our review of the Pixel 3a for more insights.
Google Pixel 4 - October 15, 2019
The Google Pixel 4, released in October 2019, focused on internal upgrades, including a 90Hz display refresh rate and camera enhancements like a 2x optical zoom. It also featured a RAM upgrade to 6GB from the previous 4GB.
Google Pixel 4a - August 20, 2020
The Google Pixel 4a, launched in August 2020, omitted the 90Hz refresh rate but boasted a significant increase in display brightness to 796 nits and improved power efficiency, offering an extra four hours of battery life compared to the flagship model.
Google Pixel 5 - October 15, 2020
The Google Pixel 5, released in October 2020, prioritized battery life with a 4080mAh battery, offering nearly 50% more life per charge than the Pixel 4. It also adopted the increased display brightness from the Pixel 4a and introduced reverse charging capabilities.
Google Pixel 5a - August 26, 2021
Image Credit: Ars Technica
The Google Pixel 5a, launched in August 2021, featured a slightly larger 6.34" display and a bigger 4680mAh battery. However, it did not support wireless charging, unlike the Pixel 5.
Google Pixel 6 - October 28, 2021
The Google Pixel 6, launched in October 2021, introduced a fresh design with an integrated camera bar. Despite its advanced technology, it was priced $100 less than the Pixel 5. Its camera system excelled in low-light conditions, and the Pro version was one of our favorite devices that year.
Google Pixel 6a - July 21, 2022
Launched in July 2022, the Google Pixel 6a scaled back the refresh rate to 60Hz and RAM to 6GB. The most notable change was its main camera sensor, reduced to 12.2MP from the 50MP in the Pixel 6.
Google Pixel 7 - October 13, 2022
The Google Pixel 7, launched in October 2022, refined existing features with an improved fingerprint sensor, a redesigned camera bar, and enhanced performance. While not groundbreaking, it was a solid choice for those upgrading from older models. The larger Pixel 7 Pro was our preferred choice over the standard model.
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Google Pixel 7a - May 10, 2023
The Google Pixel 7a, launched in May 2023, featured a 64MP main camera and retained the 90Hz refresh rate and 8GB of RAM. Slightly smaller than the Pixel 7, it offered similar battery life but with slower charging capabilities.
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A slightly cheaper and toned-down version of the Pixel 7, the Pixel 7a offers the same powerful processor, impressive AI features, and decent cameras.
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Google Pixel Fold - June 20, 2023
In 2023, Google introduced the Google Pixel Fold, a foldable phone with a 7.6" display when open and a standard display on the outside. It incorporated many camera features from the Pixel 7 Pro, with the unique design allowing for versatile camera angles.
Google Pixel 8 - October 12, 2023
The Google Pixel 8, launched in October 2023, boasted a peak brightness of 2000 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate. It was a notable upgrade from the Pixel 7 line, following closely after the introduction of the Pixel Fold.
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Running on a G3 Tensor chip, you’ll enjoy solid cameras, smart AI functions, and a bright, beautiful OLED display for an affordable price.
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Google Pixel 8a - May 14, 2024
Launched on May 14, 2024, the Google Pixel 8a opted for Gorilla Glass 3 on its display. While sharing similar performance with the Pixel 8, it featured a 64MP main camera compared to the 50MP camera of the Pixel 8, but with less depth due to supporting cameras.
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 came with an impressive 16GB of RAM.
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An elegant design, exceptional cameras, a quality display, and extensive software support make the Pixel 9 Pro a champ among smartphones.
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Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold - September 4, 2024
The latest addition to the Pixel lineup, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, was launched on September 4, 2024. It features a taller and thinner foldable display with OLED screens on both the front (6.3 inches) and interior (8 inches). Equipped with three rear-facing cameras and 16GB of RAM, it stands as Google's premier phone.
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When Is the Google Pixel 10 Coming Out?
Anticipation builds as we look forward to the Google Pixel 10 lineup, expected to include the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL. These models are slated for a Fall 2025 release. Historically, Google has favored October launches, but following the August 2024 release of the Pixel 9, an August 2025 debut seems plausible.
