Google has officially unveiled the Pixel 10 series of smartphones, featuring notable hardware enhancements. The Pixel 10, 10 Pro, and 10 Pro XL maintain a similar appearance to their predecessors, and their pricing remains consistent with last year’s models. Nevertheless, numerous modifications have been implemented in the software, with many more changes than are immediately apparent.
The primary upgrade in this series is the introduction of the new Tensor G5 chipset, which marks Google’s first hardware platform developed by TSMC. Previously, the company had relied on Samsung for chipsets over the past four years. Google claims that the new processor is, on average, 34% faster than the Tensor G4, with a 60% improvement in AI processing tasks. All models feature slightly brighter displays, and the battery capacities have been increased. The Pixel 10 is equipped with a 4970 mAh battery, the Pixel 10 Pro has a 4870 mAh battery, and the Pixel 10 Pro XL boasts a 5200 mAh battery.
At last, the Qi2 wireless charging standard is supported. On the back, there is a MagSafe-style magnetic ring referred to by Google as Pixelsnap. The company is launching a few of its own accessories: a magnetic charging pad featuring a detachable wireless charging puck, and a ring that can also function as a stand. The Pixel 10 phones will work with the vast array of MagSafe accessories available in the market. The base and Pro models can handle charging up to 15W, whereas the Pro XL can support up to 25W (Qi2.2).
Regarding the camera, there is both good and bad news. The base model now features a fully functional camera equipped with a telephoto lens and 5x zoom for the first time, but it utilizes a smaller main sensor taken from the Pixel 9A. This sensor is a 48-megapixel 1/2″ model. In contrast, the Pixel Pro and Pro XL are equipped with a 50-megapixel 1/1.3″ sensor and a 48-megapixel periscope-type module that includes a telephoto lens. The third camera in the Pixel 10 and 10 Pro (10 Pro XL) incorporates 13 MP and 48 MP sensors, respectively. Users are provided with a comprehensive suite of AI features for both shooting and post-processing. For instance, the AI Camera Coach offers step-by-step guidance on enhancing the composition of specific photos, and in the Pro models, the algorithms produce remarkably clear images even at 30x zoom. Additionally, the Magic Editor now includes AI-driven text suggestions for photo editing.
Essentially, AI is ubiquitous. There exists a journaling application that can summarize your entries, and a voice-simulating translator has been introduced in a mobile app. However, the standout AI feature in the Pixel 10 is known as Magic Cue. This function generates text based on the context that a user may wish to include during a conversation. For instance, if a message is received requesting an address, Magic Cue retrieves it from the email and proposes it to the user. When making a call to a business or organization, Magic Cue can identify that information, cross-reference it with other data, and present the pertinent details. It operates like autocomplete, but at an enhanced level.
Magic Cue primarily interacts with other applications, such as Messages, Calendar, Gmail, and Phone, but is integrated into the Gboard keyboard, allowing it to suggest text to complete the relevant line. The AI operates on the device itself and does not store or retain any information. Initially, this feature will be exclusive to the Pixel 10 series of smartphones.
The Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL smartphones are currently available for pre-order, with prices starting at $799, $999, and $1,199, respectively. Sales are set to commence on August 28. In the United States, these devices will exclusively support eSIM, with the physical SIM tray being replaced by the capability to utilize two active eSIMs simultaneously.
