Google Pixel: A Timeline of Every Release

The Google Pixel lineup stands as a formidable competitor to the Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy series, earning its reputation as one of the premier Android smartphones available. Since the initial launch in 2016, Google has consistently refined and expanded the Pixel series, offering a range of models that cater to diverse consumer needs. If you're curious about the evolution of Google's flagship smartphones, now is the perfect time to delve into their history.

How Many Google Pixel Generations Have There Been?

In total, there have been **17 different Google Pixel generations**. This count includes the mainline Pixel series but does not list Pro or XL variants separately. It does, however, encompass the 'a' series and the innovative Fold models.

How often are you upgrading to a new phone? -------------------------------------------

Every yearEvery 2-3 yearsEvery 5 yearsOnly when my old phone stops working

AnswerSee Results

Every Google Pixel Generation in Order of Release

Google Pixel - October 20, 2016

Launched in October 2016, the original Google Pixel marked the inception of the Pixel line. It was one of the earliest smartphones to embrace USB-C technology and boasted a 12.3-megapixel camera. The lineup included both the standard Pixel and the larger-screened Pixel XL.

Google Pixel 2 - October 17, 2017

Released a year later in October 2017, the Google Pixel 2 introduced significant camera enhancements, including optical image stabilization. Notably, this model also removed the headphone jack, though it improved upon some Bluetooth issues from its predecessor.

Google Pixel 3 - October 18, 2018

With the Google Pixel 3, released in October 2018, users saw a sleek design with slimmed-down bezels and a higher-resolution screen, increasing by 12.5% to a 5.5-inch display. This model also introduced wireless charging, eliminating the need for a USB-C cable.

Google Pixel 3a - May 7, 2019

In 2019, Google expanded its lineup with the mid-range Google Pixel 3a, a more affordable counterpart to the flagship Pixel 3. Despite some omissions, the 3a retained the flagship's impressive rear camera system. Dive into our review of the Pixel 3a to see our initial impressions.

Google Pixel 4 - October 15, 2019

Google Pixel 4, launched in October 2019, focused on internal upgrades with a 90Hz display refresh rate and enhanced camera features, including a 2x optical zoom. The RAM was also upgraded to 6GB from the 4GB in the Pixel 3.

Google Pixel 4a - August 20, 2020

Similar to the Pixel 3a, the Pixel 4a, released in August 2020, omitted some features but offered substantial improvements in display brightness, reaching a peak of 796 nits—an 83% increase over the Pixel 4. It also boasted better power efficiency, providing four extra hours of battery life compared to the flagship model.

Google Pixel 5 - October 15, 2020

Battery life was a priority for the Google Pixel 5, released in October 2020, with a 4080mAh battery that offered nearly 50% more life per charge than the Pixel 4. It also featured increased display brightness from the Pixel 4a, a fingerprint scanner, and a reverse charging feature for powering other devices wirelessly.

Google Pixel 5a - August 26, 2021

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, however, it does not support wireless charging.

Google Pixel 6 - October 28, 2021

Launching in October 2021, the Google Pixel 6 introduced a fresh design with a camera bar. Despite incorporating new technology, it was priced $100 less than the Pixel 5. The camera system saw major enhancements, particularly in low-light performance. The Pixel 6 Pro was a standout model that year and remains a strong choice.

Google Pixel 6a - July 21, 2022

Released later than its predecessors in July 2022, the Google Pixel 6a scaled back on some features, reducing the refresh rate to 60Hz and RAM to 6GB. The most notable difference was its 12.2MP main camera sensor, compared to the 50MP on the Pixel 6.

Google Pixel 7 - October 13, 2022

Launched in October 2022, the Google Pixel 7 offered minor yet refined upgrades, including an improved fingerprint sensor, a redesigned camera bar, and better performance. While not a revolutionary update, it was a solid choice for those upgrading from older models. The larger Pixel 7 Pro was our preferred choice over the standard model.

### Google Pixel 7 (128GB)

0See it at Amazon### Google Pixel 7a - May 10, 2023

Launched on May 10, 2023, the Google Pixel 7a brought a 64MP main camera and retained the 90Hz refresh rate and 8GB of RAM. Despite its smaller size compared to the Pixel 7, it maintained a similar screen size. Battery life was comparable, but the Pixel 7 supported faster 20W charging, both wired and wireless.

### Google Pixel 7a

8A more budget-friendly version of the Pixel 7, the Pixel 7a shares the same powerful processor, AI features, and commendable camera performance. See it at Best Buy### Google Pixel Fold - June 20, 2023

In 2023, Google introduced the Pixel Fold, a foldable phone with a 7.6-inch display when open and a conventional screen when closed. It retained many of the camera features from the Pixel 7 Pro and offered versatile camera angles using its unique design.

Google Pixel 8 - October 12, 2023

Released on October 12, 2023, the Google Pixel 8 featured significant upgrades, including a peak brightness of 2000 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate. It followed closely on the heels of the innovative Google Pixel Fold.

### Google Pixel 8

12Powered by the G3 Tensor chip, the Pixel 8 offers robust camera performance, smart AI functions, and a vibrant OLED display at 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 its display, differing from the Pixel 8's Gorilla Glass Victus. While both models feature OLED displays and similar performance, the Pixel 8a boasts a 64MP main camera compared to the Pixel 8's 50MP, though it lacks the depth offered by the Pixel 8's supporting cameras.

Google Pixel 9 - August 22, 2024

Breaking from tradition, the Google Pixel 9 was launched in August 2024. It introduced Satellite SOS features, a new design, and a triple rear camera setup. The Pro series even upped the ante with 16GB of RAM, marking a significant advancement for the Pixel lineup.

### Google Pixel 9 Pro

0With its elegant design, top-notch cameras, quality display, and extensive software support, the Pixel 9 Pro stands out among smartphones. See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy### Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold - September 4, 2024

As the latest addition to the Pixel lineup, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, released on September 4, 2024, features an improved foldable display with a taller and thinner design. Both the outer 6.3-inch and inner 8-inch screens use OLED technology. Equipped with three rear-facing cameras and 16GB of RAM, it represents Google's current flagship.

### 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, which is expected to include the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL. While traditionally released in October, given the August 2024 launch of the Pixel 9, it's plausible that Google might opt for an August 2025 release for the Pixel 10 series.