Google just wrapped up its Made by Google 2025 event, officially unveiling an expanded hardware lineup that feels more like a thoughtful evolution than a dramatic overhaul. The company revealed four new smartphones, a redesigned smartwatch, and surprisingly affordable earbuds, all centered around their new Tensor G5 processor and deeper AI integration. While the changes might seem incremental on the surface, the details tell a more interesting story about where Google sees mobile technology heading.
Designer: Google
The Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold represent the company’s commitment to offering devices for different needs rather than forcing everyone into a single product category. What struck me most was how each device has a clear purpose and target user, creating a lineup that actually makes sense rather than feeling like arbitrary variations.
What’s New Across All Devices
Every device in Google’s 2025 lineup runs on the new Tensor G5 chipset, which Google claims delivers 60% more performance than the previous Tensor G4. This isn’t just about raw computational power though—the G5 has been specifically designed to handle AI and machine learning tasks more efficiently, with a 34% faster CPU and 60% more powerful TPU (Tensor Processing Unit). The shift from Samsung to TSMC manufacturing represents a significant architectural change that should deliver better thermal performance and efficiency.
The entire Pixel 10 series represents Google’s first smartphone lineup to include triple camera systems across all models. This marks a significant shift from previous generations where only Pro models received the full camera treatment. The company has also introduced comprehensive AI features powered by Google Gemini, with new tools like Magic Cue providing contextual suggestions based on your activity by pulling data from Gmail and Google Calendar.
Google has implemented Qi2 wireless charging support across the lineup, along with their own magnetic accessory system called Pixelsnap. This includes a $30 ring stand, $40 Pixelsnap charger, and $50 phone case with magnetic ring center. The company appears to be taking direct aim at Apple’s MagSafe ecosystem with these accessories.
All devices ship with Android 16 straight out of the box and come with seven years of software and security updates. Battery life has been extended to 30 hours across the smartphone lineup, representing a significant improvement over the 24-hour rating of previous generations.
Google Pixel 10: Triple Camera Finally Arrives
The base Pixel 10 starts at $799 and represents the biggest upgrade for Google’s entry-level flagship in years. The most significant change is the addition of a telephoto camera, making this the first non-Pro Pixel to include triple rear cameras. The camera system consists of a 48MP Quad PD wide camera with f/1.70 aperture, 13MP ultrawide lens, and new 5x telephoto camera that delivers 10x optical image quality with Super Res Zoom up to 20x.
The device features a 6.3-inch Actua OLED display with 1080 x 2424 pixel resolution, 422 PPI, and 60-120Hz adaptive refresh rate. Google has increased the peak brightness to 3,000 nits, making it more usable in bright outdoor conditions. The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and maintains the same 20:9 aspect ratio as previous generations.
Google has boosted the RAM to 12GB across all Pixel 10 models, up from 8GB in the base Pixel 9. Storage starts at 128GB with a 256GB option available. The phone supports 30W wired charging, allowing users to reach 55% capacity in 30 minutes, which translates to over 16 hours of usage according to Google’s estimates.
The Pixel 10 comes in four colors: Obsidian, Indigo, Frost, and Lemongrass. The device maintains Google’s distinctive camera bar design language while featuring a satin metal finish and IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. Preorders begin today with general availability starting August 28.
Pixel 10 Pro and Pro XL: Professional Features Refined
The Pixel 10 Pro starts at $999 while the Pro XL is priced at $1,199, maintaining the same pricing structure as their predecessors. Both devices share most specifications, with the primary differences being display size, battery capacity, and some premium features exclusive to the larger model.
The Pro model features a 6.3-inch Super Actua display that reaches a peak brightness of 3,300 nits, making it noticeably brighter than the standard Pixel 10. The Pro XL steps up to a 6.8-inch display with the same brightness capabilities. Both support 120Hz adaptive refresh rates and are protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2.
Camera systems on both Pro models include a 50MP wide camera, 48MP ultrawide lens, and 48MP telephoto camera with enhanced zoom capabilities beyond the base model. The Pro models maintain the advanced photography features that distinguish them from the standard Pixel 10, though specific zoom ranges weren’t detailed during the announcement.
The Pro XL introduces what Google claims is a smartphone first: 25W wireless charging via Qi2.2 compatibility. Both Pro models support standard Qi2 wireless charging, but the XL’s enhanced charging speed sets it apart from other devices currently available. The Pro XL also features upgraded speakers with what Google describes as “loud and powerful bass” along with “full and balanced stereo audio.”
Both Pro models offer storage options from 128GB up to 1TB, with the Pro XL starting at 256GB. Available colors include Moonstone, Jade, Porcelain, and Obsidian, with preorders starting today and general availability beginning August 28. The Pro models also include enhanced AI capabilities that won’t be available on the standard Pixel 10.
Pixel 10 Pro Fold: Durability Meets Functionality
The Pixel 10 Pro Fold represents Google’s third-generation foldable, priced at $1,799 for the 256GB model. Unlike previous releases, this model offers storage options up to 1TB for the first time in a Pixel Fold device, with pricing reaching $2,149 for the maximum storage configuration.
Google has made significant durability improvements, achieving an IP68 rating that makes this what they claim is “the world’s first fully dust-resistant foldable.” This represents a major advancement over the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, which offered no dust protection. The company says the device can withstand years of regular folding without degradation.
The external display measures 6.4 inches with 1080 x 2364 resolution and 60-120Hz adaptive refresh rate. When unfolded, users get access to an 8-inch internal display with 3,000 nits peak brightness on both screens. Google has reduced bezel thickness for a more seamless appearance and strengthened the hinge mechanism for improved longevity.
Interestingly, the Pro Fold uses a different camera system than the other Pro models. It features the same setup as the base Pixel 10: 48MP main camera, 10.5MP ultrawide, and 10.8MP telephoto. This appears to be a compromise to maintain the device’s slim profile at 5.2mm when unfolded, though it weighs 258 grams compared to competitors.
The Pro Fold includes a 5,015mAh battery, which Google claims is the largest battery in any foldable available in North America. This should address one of the primary concerns users have had with foldable devices. Google has updated the camera interface with a new dual-pane layout when the device is unfolded, and introduced improved multitasking capabilities including split-screen functionality with app resizing and drag-and-drop file support.
The Pro Fold will be available in Moonstone and Jade colorways, but unlike other Pixel 10 models, it won’t arrive until October 9. Preorders are available starting today.
Pixel Watch 4: Bigger Display, Better Performance
The Pixel Watch 4 starts at $349 for the Wi-Fi model and $499 for the cellular version. Google has focused on addressing the most common complaints about previous Pixel Watch generations while maintaining the circular design that distinguishes it from competitors like the Apple Watch.
The new watch features a larger and brighter display, though Google hasn’t provided specific measurements. The company claims significant improvements in outdoor visibility and overall screen real estate without making the device feel bulky. Battery life has been extended, though specific hour counts weren’t announced during the event.
Google has introduced an AI personal fitness coach feature that works in conjunction with Pixel phones running the Tensor G5 processor. This provides more personalized workout recommendations and health insights based on your activity patterns and fitness goals. The watch maintains compatibility with the existing Pixel Watch accessory ecosystem while introducing new band options and finishes.
The watch runs the latest version of Wear OS with deeper integration into Google’s AI services and the broader Pixel device ecosystem. Like the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, the Pixel Watch 4 won’t be available until October 9.
Pixel Buds 2a: Pro Features at Consumer Price
Perhaps the most surprising announcement was the Pixel Buds 2a, priced at just $129 while including active noise cancellation. This represents exceptional value in the wireless earbuds market, especially considering that most ANC-equipped earbuds cost significantly more.
The 2a model includes several features previously exclusive to higher-end models, including spatial audio and deeper Gemini AI integration. Google has refined the design for improved comfort during extended wear while maintaining the distinctive Pixel Buds aesthetic that differentiates them from Apple’s AirPods.
Battery life provides up to 8 hours of playback with ANC enabled, with the charging case offering multiple full charges. Fast charging capabilities deliver several hours of use from just 15 minutes of charging time. The Pixel Buds 2a will launch alongside the Pixel Watch 4 and Pixel 10 Pro Fold on October 9.
New AI Features and Software Integration
Google introduced several new AI-powered features across the Pixel 10 lineup, with Magic Cue being the most prominently featured. This system provides proactive suggestions based on your current activity, pulling relevant information from Gmail, Google Calendar, and other Google services to surface useful information at the right moment.
Gemini Live received significant upgrades, now supporting camera integration so the AI assistant can see what you’re looking at and provide contextual guidance. This works particularly well for tasks like cooking, repairs, or learning new skills where visual context is important. The company has also enhanced Voice Translate capabilities, leveraging the Tensor G5’s AI processing power to provide more accurate real-time translation between languages.
Google’s Pixelsnap magnetic accessory system represents their answer to Apple’s MagSafe, providing secure attachment for wireless chargers, stands, and cases. The magnetic alignment ensures proper charging placement while enabling a range of hands-free use scenarios. New AI camera features include Camera Coach, which provides intelligent guidance and on-screen cues to help users take better photos.
For Existing Pixel Owners: Is the Upgrade Worth It?
The Pixel 10 series presents different value propositions depending on which Pixel device you currently own. If you’re holding a Pixel 8 or older, the upgrade makes solid sense. You’ll get significant improvements in AI performance, camera capabilities, and overall system responsiveness. The Tensor G5’s shift from Samsung to TSMC manufacturing should address heating issues that plagued previous Tensor chips, while delivering better thermal performance and efficiency.
For Pixel 9 owners, the decision becomes more nuanced. The hardware improvements are meaningful but not revolutionary. You’ll get upgraded storage speeds with UFS 4.0 (compared to UFS 3.1 in the Pixel 9), slightly larger batteries across the lineup, and enhanced AI features like Magic Cue and improved Gemini integration. The camera improvements are incremental rather than transformative for Pro model owners, though the base Pixel 10’s telephoto addition is significant.
Where the Pixel 10 lineup really shines for existing users is ecosystem integration. The introduction of Pixelsnap magnetic accessories, enhanced Qi2 wireless charging, and deeper integration with the new Pixel Watch 4 and Pixel Buds 2a creates a more cohesive Google hardware experience that previous generations lacked.
Galaxy Z Fold 7 vs Pixel 10 Pro Fold: The Migration Question
For anyone who recently picked up Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold presents an interesting but ultimately difficult-to-justify alternative. The Samsung device maintains several key advantages that would be hard to give up.
The Galaxy Z Fold 7 is significantly more portable, measuring just 4.2mm when unfolded and weighing only 215 grams compared to the Pixel’s 5.2mm thickness and 258-gram weight. The Z Fold 7 also features a larger 6.5-inch cover screen compared to the Pixel’s 6.4-inch display, providing more usable space for quick tasks without unfolding.
However, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold’s headline feature is its IP68 dust and water resistance rating, making it what Google claims is “the world’s first fully dust-resistant foldable.” This represents a significant durability advantage over the Galaxy Z Fold 7’s IP48 rating, which offers no dust protection. The Pixel also includes a substantially larger 5,015mAh battery compared to the Galaxy’s 4,400mAh capacity.
From a camera perspective, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold uses the same camera system as the base Pixel 10 rather than the premium Pro cameras, which means it doesn’t match the Galaxy Z Fold 7’s photography capabilities. This seems like a significant compromise for a device priced at $1,799.
What This Means for the Smartphone Market
Google’s 2025 approach feels more mature than previous Pixel launches. Rather than trying to compete directly on specifications or chase the latest trends, they’ve focused on creating a coherent lineup where each device serves a specific purpose. The base Pixel 10 finally feels like a complete flagship rather than a compromised version of the Pro models.
The pricing strategy is particularly smart, maintaining the same starting prices as last year while adding meaningful features across the lineup. This positions Google well against both Apple’s premium pricing and Samsung’s complex model variations. The emphasis on AI integration throughout the hardware and software stack suggests Google believes this is where they can differentiate from competitors.
Honestly, there aren’t many “wow” factors in the Pixel 10 lineup that would justify immediate upgrades for recent Pixel or Galaxy owners. Google has focused on refinement over revolution, which makes sense from a maturity standpoint but doesn’t create compelling upgrade pressure. The most significant wow factor is probably the base Pixel 10’s addition of a telephoto camera, finally bringing it to feature parity with flagship competitors.
For foldable users, the IP68 rating on the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is genuinely impressive and could be enough to sway Galaxy Z Fold 7 owners who prioritize durability over portability. The ability to use your foldable phone around water and dust without worry represents a significant quality-of-life improvement.
All Pixel 10 smartphones are available for preorder starting today, with the Pixel 10, Pro, and Pro XL shipping August 28. The Pro Fold, Watch 4, and Buds 2a will follow on October 9, giving Google a staggered launch that should help with supply chain management and allow them to focus marketing attention on different product categories at optimal times.
For most existing Google Pixel 9 owners, waiting for the Pixel 11 series makes more sense unless you specifically need the base model’s telephoto camera or the Pro Fold’s dust resistance. The improvements are meaningful but not transformative enough to justify the upgrade cost. For Galaxy Z Fold 7 owners, the decision hinges on priorities: portability and refined software optimization favor Samsung, while durability and Google’s AI integration make the Pixel 10 Pro Fold worth considering, despite its camera compromises.
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