The Google Pixel lineup of smartphones stands proudly alongside the Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy series as one of the best and most popular options available to consumers. Since its inception in 2016, Google has consistently enhanced the Pixel series, establishing it as a top contender in the Android smartphone market. Keeping track of every model can be a challenge, but we've put together a comprehensive list of every Google Pixel smartphone and its release date. If you're curious about how Google has evolved its flagship phone lineup over the years, now is the perfect time to delve in!
How Many Google Pixel Generations Have There Been?
In total, there have been **17 different Google Pixel generations**. This count does not include separate listings for Pro or XL models, but it does encompass distinct Pixel models like the a and Fold series.
Answer See ResultsEvery Google Pixel Generation in Order of Release
Google Pixel - October 20, 2016
The inaugural Google Pixel was released in October 2016, marking the beginning of the Pixel line. It was among the first smartphones to embrace USB-C technology and boasted a 12.3-megapixel camera. Google offered both the standard Pixel and the larger-displayed Pixel XL.
Google Pixel 2 - October 17, 2017
Released just a year after the original, the Google Pixel 2 debuted in October 2017 with significant camera enhancements, including optical image stabilization. Notably, it was the first Pixel to remove the headphone jack, though it addressed some Bluetooth issues from its predecessor.
Google Pixel 3 - October 18, 2018
The Google Pixel 3, released in October 2018, introduced sleeker bezels and a higher-resolution 5.5-inch display, a 12.5% increase over its predecessor. It also brought wireless charging, eliminating the need for a USB-C cable to charge.
Google Pixel 3a - May 7, 2019
In 2019, Google entered the mid-range market with the Pixel 3a, which, while omitting some features of the flagship Pixel 3, retained its impressive back camera system. For more details, you can check out our initial review of the Pixel 3a.
Google Pixel 4 - October 15, 2019
The Google Pixel 4, released in October 2019, focused on internal upgrades. It featured a 90Hz display refresh rate and camera enhancements, including a 2x optical zoom. Additionally, the RAM was boosted to 6GB, up from 4GB in the Pixel 3.
Google Pixel 4a - August 20, 2020
The Google Pixel 4a, launched in August 2020, sacrificed the 90Hz refresh rate but improved display brightness by 83% to a peak of 796 nits. It was also more power-efficient, offering four additional hours of battery life compared to the flagship Pixel 4.
Google Pixel 5 - October 15, 2020
The Google Pixel 5, released in October 2020, prioritized battery life with a 4080mAh battery that provided nearly 50% more life per charge than the Pixel 4. It incorporated the enhanced display brightness from the Pixel 4a and introduced reverse wireless charging.
Google Pixel 5a - August 26, 2021
Image Credit: Ars Technica The Google Pixel 5a, released in August 2021, closely resembles the Pixel 5 but boasts a slightly larger 6.34-inch display and a 4680mAh battery. Unlike the Pixel 5, it does not support wireless charging.
Google Pixel 6 - October 28, 2021
The Google Pixel 6, launched in October 2021, introduced a striking new design with cameras integrated into a bar. Priced $100 less than the Pixel 5, it featured significant camera improvements, particularly in low-light settings. The Pro version was a highlight of the year and remains a solid device.
Google Pixel 6a - July 21, 2022
The Google Pixel 6a, released in July 2022, reduced the refresh rate to 60Hz and RAM to 6GB compared to the Pixel 6. Its main camera sensor was downgraded to 12.2MP from the 50MP on the Pixel 6.
Google Pixel 7 - October 13, 2022
The Google Pixel 7, released in October 2022, offered minor upgrades, including an improved fingerprint sensor and a redesigned camera bar. While not groundbreaking, it was a solid choice for those upgrading from older models. We preferred the larger Pixel 7 Pro in our comparisons.
Google Pixel 7 (128GB)
0 See it at Amazon
Google Pixel 7a - May 10, 2023
The Google Pixel 7a, released on May 10, 2023, introduced a 64MP main camera while retaining the 90Hz refresh rate and 8GB of RAM. Although slightly smaller than the Pixel 7, it maintained similar battery life, but the Pixel 7 supported faster 20W charging.
Google Pixel 7a
8 A slightly more budget-friendly 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 in June 2023, marked Google's entry into the foldable phone market. With a 7.6-inch display when opened and a standard display on the outside, it incorporated many of the beloved camera features from the Pixel 7 Pro and allowed for unique camera angles using the foldable design as a stand.
Google Pixel 8 - October 12, 2023
The Google Pixel 8, released on October 12, 2023, offered significant upgrades from the Pixel 7 line, including a peak brightness of 2000 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate. It followed closely on the heels of the Google Pixel Fold's debut.
12 Running 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 Gorilla Glass Victus for the display. While sharing similar performance and OLED displays with the Pixel 8, its 64MP camera contrasts with the Pixel 8's 50MP camera, offering higher pixel count but less depth.
Google Pixel 9 - August 22, 2024
The Google Pixel 9, released in August 2024, broke tradition by launching before October. It introduced Satellite SOS features, a new design, and a triple rear camera. The Pro series even boasted 16GB of RAM, a significant advancement for the Pixel lineup.
0 An 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 in the Pixel lineup, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, was released on September 4, 2024. It features a taller and thinner foldable display, with OLED screens on both the front and interior. The outer display measures 6.3 inches, while the inner screen expands to 8 inches. With three rear-facing cameras and 16GB of RAM, it stands 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 anticipated to be released in the fall of 2025. While Google traditionally launched new models in October, the Pixel 9's August 2024 release suggests that the Pixel 10 might follow suit in August 2025.
