The Google Pixel lineup has established itself as a formidable competitor among the best smartphones, rivaling the likes of the Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy series. Since the debut of the first Google Pixel in 2016, Google has consistently pushed the boundaries of what Android smartphones can offer. With each new release, Google has brought exciting upgrades and innovations, making it a fascinating journey to track the evolution of the Pixel series. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of every Google Pixel smartphone and their respective release dates, perfect for those eager to see how Google has enhanced its flagship lineup over the years.
How Many Google Pixel Generations Have There Been?
In total, there have been 17 different Google Pixel generations. This count includes the main series and variants like the 'a' and Fold series, but excludes separate listings for Pro or XL models.
AnswerSee ResultsEvery Google Pixel Generation in Order of Release
Google Pixel - October 20, 2016
The original Google Pixel, launched in October 2016, marked the beginning of Google's venture into the smartphone market. It was one of the first devices to feature USB-C and boasted a 12.3-megapixel camera. The Pixel was available in both standard and XL versions, with the latter offering a larger screen.
Google Pixel 2 - October 17, 2017
Just a year after its predecessor, the Google Pixel 2 was released in October 2017. It introduced significant enhancements, particularly in the camera system with optical image stabilization. Notably, it removed the headphone jack but improved upon some Bluetooth issues from the first model.
Google Pixel 3 - October 18, 2018
The Google Pixel 3, launched in October 2018, featured slimmer bezels and a higher resolution display, increasing by 12.5% to a 5.5-inch screen. It also introduced wireless charging, a significant addition to the Pixel lineup.
Google Pixel 3a - May 7, 2019
In 2019, Google introduced the mid-range Google Pixel 3a. Released after the flagship Pixel 3, it omitted some features but retained the impressive back camera system. For a detailed look, you can check out our review of the Pixel 3a.
Google Pixel 4 - October 15, 2019
The Google Pixel 4 focused on internal upgrades, including a 90Hz refresh rate for the display and a 2x optical zoom camera. It also increased the 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, dropped the 90Hz refresh rate but improved the display brightness to 796 nits, an 83% increase over the Pixel 4. It also offered better power efficiency, extending battery life by four hours compared to the flagship model.
Google Pixel 5 - October 15, 2020
Launched in October 2020, the Google Pixel 5 prioritized battery life with a 4080mAh battery, delivering nearly 50% more life per charge than the Pixel 4. It also included the improved 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, resembles the Pixel 5 but features 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 new design with a camera bar. Despite the technological advancements, it was priced $100 less than the Pixel 5. Its camera system excelled in low-light conditions, and the Pro version was highly acclaimed.
Google Pixel 6a - July 21, 2022
Released in July 2022, the Google Pixel 6a reduced the refresh rate to 60Hz and RAM to 6GB compared to the Pixel 6. Its main camera sensor was significantly smaller at 12.2MP versus the 50MP on the Pixel 6.
Google Pixel 7 - October 13, 2022
The Google Pixel 7, launched in October 2022, offered subtle upgrades, including an improved fingerprint sensor and a redesigned camera bar. While not groundbreaking, it was a solid choice for those upgrading from older Pixel models. We favored the Pixel 7 Pro in our comparisons.
Google Pixel 7 (128GB)
0See it at Amazon
Google Pixel 7a - May 10, 2023
Launched on May 10, 2023, the Google Pixel 7a featured a 64MP main camera, retained the 90Hz refresh rate, and included 8GB of RAM. Though slightly smaller than the Pixel 7, it offered comparable battery life but slower charging.
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 Google's entry into the foldable market. It featured a 7.6-inch display when open and included many of the Pixel 7 Pro's camera features, with the unique design allowing for versatile camera angles.
Google Pixel 8 - October 12, 2023
The Google Pixel 8, launched on October 12, 2023, offered a peak brightness of 2000 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate, making it a notable upgrade from the Pixel 7.
Google Pixel 8
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
Launched on May 14, 2024, the Google Pixel 8a switched to Gorilla Glass 3 for the display. While it shares similar performance with the Pixel 8, it features a 64MP camera compared to the Pixel 8's 50MP, though with less depth due to different supporting cameras.
Google Pixel 9 - August 22, 2024
The Google Pixel 9, released in August 2024, broke tradition by launching earlier than usual. It introduced Satellite SOS features, a new design, and a triple rear camera. The Pro series even included 16GB of RAM.
Google Pixel 9 Pro
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 a taller and thinner foldable display, with OLED screens on both the 6.3-inch outer and 8-inch inner displays. It includes three rear-facing cameras and 16GB of RAM, positioning it as Google's top-tier phone.
Preorder the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold 256GB
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When Is the Google Pixel 10 Coming Out?
It is anticipated that Google will launch the Google Pixel 10 lineup, including the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL, in the Fall of 2025. While Google traditionally favored October releases, the Pixel 9's August 2024 launch suggests that the Pixel 10 might also debut in August 2025.
