The Google Pixel lineup has emerged as a formidable competitor in the smartphone market, standing tall alongside giants like the Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy series. Since its inception in 2016, Google has continuously refined and expanded the Pixel range, establishing it as a top-tier choice for Android enthusiasts. If you're curious about the evolution of Google's flagship smartphones, here's a comprehensive look at every Google Pixel model and its release date. Dive in to see how Google has innovated and improved its offerings over the years!
How Many Google Pixel Generations Have There Been?
To date, Google has released a total of **17 different Google Pixel generations**. This count encompasses the main series but does not include separate listings for Pro or XL variants. However, we have included distinct models such as the 'a' series and the Fold series.
Every Google Pixel Generation in Order of Release
Google Pixel - October 20, 2016
The inaugural Google Pixel hit the market on October 20, 2016, marking the beginning of Google's own-branded smartphones. It was one of the first to embrace USB-C technology and boasted a 12.3 megapixel camera. Both the Pixel and the larger Pixel XL were released, offering consumers a choice in screen size.
Google Pixel 2 - October 17, 2017
Just a year later, on October 17, 2017, the Google Pixel 2 was introduced. It enhanced the camera system with optical image stabilization and, notably, removed the traditional headphone jack. Despite this, it addressed some Bluetooth connectivity issues from its predecessor.
Google Pixel 3 - October 18, 2018
The Google Pixel 3, released on October 18, 2018, featured a significantly slimmer bezel around the display, increasing the screen resolution by 12.5% to a 5.5-inch display. It also introduced wireless charging, allowing users to ditch the USB-C cable for charging convenience.
Google Pixel 3a - May 7, 2019
In 2019, Google ventured into the mid-range market with the Google Pixel 3a, launched on May 7. While it omitted some features from the flagship Pixel 3, it retained the impressive back camera system. Check out our review to learn more about its capabilities at launch.
Google Pixel 4 - October 15, 2019
The Google Pixel 4, released on October 15, 2019, focused on internal upgrades. It boasted a 90Hz refresh rate for smoother visuals and improved the camera with a 2x optical zoom. Additionally, it increased the RAM to 6GB, a significant step up from the 4GB in the Pixel 3.
Google Pixel 4a - August 20, 2020
The Google Pixel 4a, launched on August 20, 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 better power efficiency, adding four extra hours of battery life compared to the flagship model.
Google Pixel 5 - October 15, 2020
Battery life was the highlight of the Google Pixel 5, released on October 15, 2020. With a 4080mAh battery, it provided nearly 50% more battery life per charge than the Pixel 4. It also adopted the increased display brightness from the Pixel 4a and introduced reverse wireless charging.
Google Pixel 5a - August 26, 2021
The Google Pixel 5a, launched on August 26, 2021, closely resembled the Pixel 5 but featured a slightly larger 6.34-inch display. It boasted a larger 4680mAh battery but did not support wireless charging, unlike the Pixel 5.
Google Pixel 6 - October 28, 2021
The Google Pixel 6, introduced on October 28, 2021, brought a fresh design with a camera bar and was priced $100 less than the Pixel 5. It featured significant camera improvements, especially in low light settings. The Pro version of this model was particularly acclaimed and remains a strong choice.
Google Pixel 6a - July 21, 2022
The Google Pixel 6a, released on July 21, 2022, scaled back from the Pixel 6 with a 60Hz refresh rate and 6GB of RAM. Its main camera sensor was reduced to 12.2MP from the 50MP on the Pixel 6, yet it remained a compelling mid-range option.
Google Pixel 7 - October 13, 2022
Launched on October 13, 2022, the Google Pixel 7 offered incremental upgrades, including an improved fingerprint sensor and a redesigned camera bar. While not a revolutionary update, it was a solid choice for those looking to upgrade from older Pixel models. The Pixel 7 Pro was favored over the standard model in our comparisons.
Google Pixel 7 (128GB)
0See it at Amazon
Google Pixel 7a - May 10, 2023
The Google Pixel 7a, released on May 10, 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 slower charging speeds.
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, launched on June 20, 2023, marked Google's entry into the foldable phone market. It featured a 7.6-inch display when opened and retained many camera features from the Pixel 7 Pro, with the unique design enabling various camera angles.
Google Pixel 8 - October 12, 2023
The Google Pixel 8, released on October 12, 2023, boasted a peak brightness of 2000 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate, offering significant improvements over the Pixel 7 line.
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, used Gorilla Glass 3 instead of Victus. It featured a 64MP camera, different from the 50MP camera on the Pixel 8, resulting in a higher pixel count but less depth.
Google Pixel 9 - August 22, 2024
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 series included a substantial 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, was released on September 4, 2024. It features an improved foldable design with a taller and thinner screen, offering a 6.3-inch outer display and an 8-inch inner screen. With three rear-facing cameras and 16GB of RAM, it stands as Google's top-tier offering.
Preorder the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold 256GB
0See it at Amazon
When Is the Google Pixel 10 Coming Out?
Anticipation is building for the Google Pixel 10 lineup, expected to include the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL, with a projected release in Fall 2025. While Google traditionally favored October launches, the earlier release of the Pixel 9 in August 2024 suggests that the Pixel 10 might also debut in August 2025.
