The Google Pixel lineup stands tall among the best smartphones, rivaling the likes of Apple's iPhone and Samsung's Galaxy series. Since its debut in 2016, Google has consistently refined and expanded the Pixel series, making it a top choice for Android enthusiasts. If you're curious about the evolution of Google's flagship phones, now is the perfect time to dive in and see how each model has pushed the boundaries of technology and design.
How Many Google Pixel Generations Have There Been?
To date, there have been a total of **17 different Google Pixel generations**. This count includes the main series as well as the 'a' and Fold series, but does not separately list Pro or XL models.
Every Google Pixel Generation in Order of Release
Google Pixel - October 20, 2016
The inaugural Google Pixel, launched in October 2016, was a trailblazer, being one of the first smartphones to embrace USB-C technology. It featured a robust 12.3-megapixel camera and was available in both standard and XL variants, the latter boasting a larger screen.
Google Pixel 2 - October 17, 2017
Just a year later, in October 2017, the Google Pixel 2 hit the market with significant camera enhancements, including optical image stabilization. Notably, it was the first Pixel to ditch the headphone jack, though it did address some Bluetooth connectivity issues from its predecessor.
Google Pixel 3 - October 18, 2018
The Google Pixel 3, released in October 2018, introduced slimmer bezels and a higher resolution display, increasing by 12.5% to a 5.5-inch screen. It also marked the debut of wireless charging in the Pixel lineup, eliminating the need for a USB-C cable.
Google Pixel 3a - May 7, 2019
In 2019, Google ventured into the mid-range market with the Google Pixel 3a, a more affordable alternative to the flagship Pixel 3. While it omitted some features, it retained the impressive back camera system. For a detailed look, check out our review of the Pixel 3a.
Google Pixel 4 - October 15, 2019
The Google Pixel 4, launched in October 2019, focused on internal upgrades, including a 90Hz display refresh rate and a 2x optical zoom camera. It also boasted an increase in RAM to 6GB, up from the 4GB in the Pixel 3.
Google Pixel 4a - August 20, 2020
The Google Pixel 4a, released in August 2020, sacrificed the 90Hz refresh rate but compensated with a peak brightness of 796 nits, an 83% increase over the Pixel 4. It also offered improved power efficiency, extending battery life by four hours compared to the flagship model.
Google Pixel 5 - October 15, 2020
Battery life took center stage with the Google Pixel 5, launched in October 2020, featuring a 4080mAh battery that provided nearly 50% more life per charge than the Pixel 4. It also incorporated the increased display brightness from the Pixel 4a and introduced reverse charging capabilities.
Google Pixel 5a - August 26, 2021
The Google Pixel 5a, released in August 2021, closely resembled the Pixel 5 but featured a slightly larger 6.34-inch display and a 4680mAh battery. Unlike the Pixel 5, it did not support wireless charging.
Google Pixel 6 - October 28, 2021
The Google Pixel 6, launched in October 2021, introduced a striking new design with a camera bar and was priced $100 less than the Pixel 5. It offered significant camera improvements, particularly in low-light conditions, and the Pro version was a standout device that year.
Google Pixel 6a - July 21, 2022
The Google Pixel 6a, released in July 2022, scaled back the refresh rate to 60Hz and RAM to 6GB but maintained a strong camera system, albeit with a 12.2MP main sensor compared to the 50MP on the Pixel 6.
Google Pixel 7 - October 13, 2022
The Google Pixel 7, launched in October 2022, offered subtle yet meaningful upgrades, including an improved fingerprint sensor and a redesigned camera bar. While not a revolutionary change, it was a solid choice for those upgrading from older models. The larger Pixel 7 Pro was our preferred model in this series.
Google Pixel 7 (128GB)
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Google Pixel 7a - May 10, 2023
The Google Pixel 7a, launched on May 10, 2023, featured a 64MP main camera and retained the 90Hz refresh rate and 8GB of RAM. Despite its smaller size, it offered similar battery life to the Pixel 7 but with slower charging capabilities.
Google Pixel 7a
8A slightly cheaper and toned-down 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, released in June 2023, marked a significant shift with its foldable design, offering a 7.6-inch display when open and a standard display when closed. It incorporated many of the Pixel 7 Pro's camera features and allowed for versatile camera angles using the foldable design.
Google Pixel 8 - October 12, 2023
The Google Pixel 8, launched on October 12, 2023, brought notable upgrades including a peak brightness of 2000 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate, making it a significant step up from the Pixel 7.
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 Victus. While it shares similar performance and an OLED display with the Pixel 8, it features a 64MP camera compared to the 50MP on the Pixel 8, though with less depth due to different supporting sensors.
Google Pixel 9 - August 22, 2024
Breaking tradition, the Google Pixel 9 was launched in August 2024, introducing Satellite SOS features, a new design, and a triple rear camera. The Pro series even upped the ante with 16GB of RAM.
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, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, launched on September 4, 2024, features a taller and thinner foldable display, with OLED screens on both the 6.3-inch outer and 8-inch inner displays. It boasts three rear-facing cameras and 16GB of RAM, positioning it as Google's premier phone.
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 expected to launch in the Fall of 2025. While Google traditionally favored October releases, the Pixel 9's August 2024 launch suggests a possible shift to August 2025 for the Pixel 10.
