The wait is nearly over for Pixel fans. Google has confirmed that its next flagship smartphones, the Pixel 10 series, will debut at a global event on August 13, 2025. Pre-orders for all models—including the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold—will go live the same day. Devices are scheduled to begin shipping just a week later, on August 20.
Although last week’s invites to select Pixel Superfans hinted at a possible early reveal, Google is sticking with the August timeline that it used for last year’s launch. The company also plans to showcase other hardware, including the possible debut of the Pixel Watch 4, but so far the spotlight remains firmly on the Pixel 10 lineup.
A Familiar Design — with Tweaks
Early prototype leaks and CAD renders show that Google is not overhauling the Pixel 10’s look. Expect the signature flat-edge design and a prominent horizontal camera bar on the back. The Pixel 10 Pro’s camera module might extend closer to the edge and appear taller, though significant changes seem unlikely. One minor shift is the relocation of the SIM tray to the top, providing space for dual speakers on the bottom, but even these details could still change before retail models ship.
Tensor G5 Powers All Models
Google’s new Tensor G5 chipset is set to headline this release. Manufactured by TSMC instead of Samsung, the chip adopts a modern eight-core setup: one high-performance Cortex-X4 core, five Cortex-A725 performance cores, and two Cortex-A520 efficiency cores. Buyers can expect improved power efficiency, faster AI performance, and smoother multitasking across the board. The standard RAM configuration is rumored to be 16GB, with base storage options starting at 256GB. Storage remains non-expandable, so users should choose their capacity wisely.
The Fold Takes Center Stage
The Pixel 10 Pro Fold stands as the most distinct model in the lineup. Its design closely mirrors last year’s foldable Pixel, with a slightly revised camera island and two display panels that stay mostly flat when open. Renders suggest the main screen lands around 8 inches, with a 6.3-inch cover display. The foldable is set to launch at a lower price than its predecessor, with a rumored starting cost near $1,600—an encouraging move in a segment often marked by steep price tags.
Camera Upgrades: AI and Stabilization Lead the Way
Despite retaining a similar hardware setup as the Pixel 9 series, the Pixel 10 family puts emphasis on software innovation. Enhanced gimbal-level image stabilization should dramatically boost handheld video quality, while a new telephoto lens appears on the base model. Video fans are expected to benefit from native 8K recording at 30 frames per second and a boosted 4K slow-motion feature. Next-level AI tools will help polish, edit, and share content right from the device, reflecting Google’s software-first mantra.
Android 16 Customization Arrives
All Pixel 10 models will ship with Android 16 pre-installed. Google teased new customization features including theme bundling, more advanced wallpaper and color controls, and a refreshed interface styled as Material 3 Expressive. System-level improvements should also enhance security, battery health monitoring, and day-to-day usability.
Looking Ahead
Google is playing it safe with the Pixel 10’s looks, preferring internal upgrades and smart software over dramatic exterior redesigns. The arrival of the Tensor G5, major step-ups in camera performance, and the long-awaited customization tools in Android 16 stand out as the biggest reasons to give this year’s Pixels a close look. For fans of Google’s phones—or anyone eager for a more flexible Android flagship—the next few weeks could be worth the wait.
