The Google Pixel lineup stands as a formidable contender in the smartphone market, rivaling giants like the Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy series. Since its inception in 2016, Google has consistently refined the Pixel series, establishing it as a top-tier choice among Android enthusiasts. Keeping track of each model can be a challenge, but we've put together a comprehensive list of every Google Pixel smartphone along with their release dates. If you're curious about how Google has evolved its flagship phones over the years, now is the perfect time to dive in!
How Many Google Pixel Generations Have There Been?
To date, Google has released a total of **17 different Google Pixel generations**. This count includes the main series but excludes separate listings for Pro or XL models. However, it does encompass distinct Pixel 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, launched in October 2016, marked the beginning of the Pixel era. It was among the first smartphones to embrace USB-C technology and boasted a 12.3-megapixel camera. Google offered both a standard Pixel and a larger Pixel XL, catering to different screen size preferences.
Google Pixel 2 - October 17, 2017
Just a year later, in October 2017, the Google Pixel 2 hit the market. This model introduced 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, brought noticeable changes. It featured slimmer bezels and a higher resolution screen, increasing by 12.5% to a 5.5-inch display. Additionally, it introduced wireless charging, eliminating the need for a USB-C cable.
Google Pixel 3a - May 7, 2019
In 2019, Google ventured into the mid-range market with the Google Pixel 3a, a more affordable alternative to the flagship Pixel 3. While it omitted some features, it retained the flagship's impressive back camera system. For a detailed look, check out our review of the Pixel 3a.
Google Pixel 4 - October 15, 2019
The Google Pixel 4, launched in October 2019, focused on internal upgrades. It featured a 90Hz refresh rate display and enhanced camera capabilities, including a 2x optical zoom. The RAM was also upgraded to 6GB from the previous 4GB.
Google Pixel 4a - August 20, 2020
Similar to the Pixel 3a, the Google Pixel 4a, released in August 2020, omitted some features but made significant improvements. It dropped the 90Hz refresh rate but increased display brightness to 796 nits, an 83% increase over the Pixel 4. It also offered better power efficiency, extending battery life by four hours.
Google Pixel 5 - October 15, 2020
Battery life was a key focus for the Google Pixel 5, released in October 2020. It featured a 4080mAh battery, delivering nearly 50% more battery life per charge than the Pixel 4. It also incorporated the increased display brightness from the Pixel 4a and introduced reverse charging.
Google Pixel 5a - August 26, 2021
The Google Pixel 5a, launched in August 2021, closely resembled the Pixel 5 but featured a slightly larger 6.34-inch display. It had a bigger 4680mAh battery but did not support wireless charging, unlike the Pixel 5.
Google Pixel 6 - October 28, 2021
The Google Pixel 6, released in October 2021, introduced a fresh design with a camera bar. Despite its advanced technology, it was priced $100 less than the Pixel 5. It offered significant camera improvements, especially in low-light conditions. The Pixel 6 Pro was a standout model that year.
Google Pixel 6a - July 21, 2022
The Google Pixel 6a, launched in July 2022, reduced the refresh rate to 60Hz and RAM to 6GB compared to the Pixel 6. The most notable difference was the main camera sensor, dropping from 50MP to 12.2MP.
Google Pixel 7 - October 13, 2022
The Google Pixel 7, released in October 2022, offered minor upgrades but refined key features. It featured an improved fingerprint sensor, a redesigned camera bar, and enhanced performance. While not a major leap, it was a solid choice for those upgrading from older models. The Pixel 7 Pro was preferred 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, launched on May 10, 2023, introduced a 64MP main camera while retaining the 90Hz refresh rate and 8GB of RAM. Despite its smaller size, it maintained a similar screen size to the Pixel 7. Battery life was comparable, but the Pixel 7a supported faster 20W 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 a significant shift in the Pixel lineup. This foldable phone featured a 7.6-inch display when open and a standard display on the outside. It incorporated many of the Pixel 7 Pro's camera features and offered unique camera angles using the foldable design.
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. It was a notable upgrade from the Pixel 7 line, released shortly after the innovative Pixel Fold.
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, opted for Gorilla Glass 3 instead of Gorilla Glass Victus. While it shared similar performance and an OLED display with the Pixel 8, it featured 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
Breaking tradition, the Google Pixel 9 was released in August 2024. 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.
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. With three rear-facing cameras and 16GB of RAM, it stands as Google's premier phone.
Preorder the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold 256GB
0See it at Amazon
When Is the Google Pixel 10 Coming Out?
The Google Pixel 10 lineup, including the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL, is expected to launch in the Fall of 2025. While Google traditionally favored October releases, the Pixel 9's August 2024 launch suggests a possible shift to August 2025 for the Pixel 10.
