by Emma Mar 25,2025
The Google Pixel series stands proudly alongside the Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy as one of the most popular and highly regarded smartphone lineups in the market. Since its debut in 2016, Google has consistently enhanced the Pixel, establishing it as a top-tier choice among Android smartphones. Keeping track of every model can be quite the challenge, but we've put together a comprehensive list of all Google Pixel smartphones, complete with their release dates. If you're interested in seeing how Google has refined its flagship phones over the years, now's the perfect time to dive in!
To date, there have been **17 distinct Google Pixel generations**. This count does not include variations like Pro or XL models, but it does encompass the a-series and Fold models.
The inaugural Google Pixel launched in October 2016, marking the beginning of the Pixel era. It was among the first smartphones to embrace USB-C and featured a robust 12.3-megapixel camera. The lineup included both the standard Pixel and the Pixel XL, the latter boasting a larger screen.
Following closely in October 2017, the Google Pixel 2 introduced significant camera enhancements, including optical image stabilization. It was also notable for eliminating the headphone jack, though it did address some Bluetooth connectivity issues from its predecessor.
The Google Pixel 3, launched in October 2018, brought notable changes including slimmer bezels and a higher resolution 5.5-inch display. It also introduced wireless charging, freeing users from the constraints of USB-C cables.
In 2019, Google expanded its offerings with the mid-range Google Pixel 3a. Though released after the Pixel 3, it omitted some features while retaining the flagship's impressive back camera. For a detailed look at the Pixel 3a, you can read our review.
The Google Pixel 4, released in October 2019, focused on internal upgrades, including a 90Hz display refresh rate and a camera system with 2x optical zoom. It also upgraded to 6GB of RAM, up from the 4GB in the Pixel 3.
Similar to the Pixel 3a, the Google Pixel 4a, launched in August 2020, made compromises but also significant improvements. It dropped the 90Hz refresh rate but boosted display brightness to a peak of 796 nits and enhanced power efficiency for longer battery life.
Battery life took center stage with the Google Pixel 5, released in October 2020, boasting a 4080mAh battery. It incorporated the increased display brightness from the Pixel 4a, added a fingerprint scanner, and introduced reverse charging capabilities.
The Google Pixel 5a, launched in August 2021, closely resembled the Pixel 5 but featured a slightly larger 6.34-inch display and a bigger 4680mAh battery. Unlike the Pixel 5, it did not support wireless charging.
The Google Pixel 6, unveiled in October 2021, made a splash with its new design featuring an integrated camera bar and advanced technology. It launched at a $100 lower price point than the Pixel 5, with significant camera improvements for low-light photography. The Pro version was particularly acclaimed.
The Google Pixel 6a, released in late July 2022, scaled back some features from the Pixel 6, including the refresh rate and RAM. Its main camera sensor was notably smaller at 12.2MP compared to the 50MP on the Pixel 6.
The Google Pixel 7, launched in October 2022, offered subtle enhancements including an improved fingerprint sensor and a redesigned camera bar. While not a groundbreaking upgrade, it provided solid performance for those with older Pixel models. The larger Pixel 7 Pro was preferred in our comparisons.
0See it at Amazon
The Google Pixel 7a, launched on May 10, 2023, boasted a 64MP main camera and retained the 90Hz refresh rate and 8GB of RAM. Despite its smaller size, it maintained similar battery life to the Pixel 7 but supported faster charging with 20W capabilities.
8A slightly more budget-friendly and streamlined version of the Pixel 7, the Pixel 7a offers the same powerful processor, impressive AI features, and decent cameras. See it at Best Buy
In 2023, Google shook up the Pixel lineup with the Google Pixel Fold, featuring a 7.6-inch display when unfolded. It incorporated many of the camera features from the Pixel 7 Pro and allowed for unique camera angles by using the phone as a stand.
The Google Pixel 8, released on October 12, 2023, improved upon the Pixel 7 with a peak brightness of 2000 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate. It was a significant upgrade, following closely on the heels of the innovative Google 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
The Google Pixel 8a, launched on May 14, 2024, opted for Gorilla Glass 3 instead of Gorilla Glass Victus. It featured a 64MP main camera, contrasting with the 50MP camera on the Pixel 8, offering higher pixel count but less depth due to the supporting cameras.
Breaking tradition, the Google Pixel 9 launched in August 2024, bringing Satellite SOS features, a new design, and a triple rear camera. The Pro series upped the ante with 16GB of RAM, marking a significant leap forward.
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
The latest in the Pixel lineup, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, was released on September 4, 2024. It features a foldable display with OLED screens on both the 6.3-inch front and the larger 8-inch inner screen. With three rear-facing cameras and 16GB of RAM, it stands as Google's premier offering.
0See it at Amazon
The Google Pixel 10 lineup, including the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL, is expected to be released in Fall 2025. Traditionally, Google has favored October launches, but with the Pixel 9 released in August 2024, an August 2025 release seems plausible.
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