The Google Pixel lineup stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the likes of the Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy, renowned for its excellence among Android smartphones. Since the inaugural model hit the market in 2016, Google has consistently refined and enhanced the Pixel series. If you're curious about how Google has evolved its flagship phones over the years, now's the perfect time to dive in and see the journey of innovation.

How Many Google Pixel Generations Have There Been?

To date, there have been **17 distinct Google Pixel generations**. This tally encompasses the mainline series without differentiating between Pro or XL models, but includes separate entries for the a-series and the innovative Fold models.

Every Google Pixel Generation in Order of Release

Google Pixel - October 20, 2016

The Google Pixel debuted in October 2016 as the inaugural model, pioneering the use of USB-C and boasting a 12.3-megapixel camera. It came in two variants: the standard Pixel and the larger-displayed Pixel XL.

Google Pixel 2 - October 17, 2017

The Google Pixel 2, released in October 2017, introduced significant enhancements, including optical image stabilization for the camera. It notably ditched the headphone jack but improved on Bluetooth connectivity.

Google Pixel 3 - October 18, 2018

With the Google Pixel 3, launched in October 2018, Google slimmed down the bezels around the display, boosting the resolution by 12.5% and introducing a 5.5-inch screen. Wireless charging was also a new addition, allowing for cable-free power-ups.

Google Pixel 3a - May 7, 2019

In 2019, Google entered the mid-range market with the Google Pixel 3a, a budget-friendly counterpart to the Pixel 3. While it omitted some features, it retained the flagship's impressive rear camera. Our review of the Pixel 3a highlights its value and performance.

Google Pixel 4 - October 15, 2019

The Google Pixel 4, launched in October 2019, focused on internal upgrades, including a 90Hz display refresh rate and a camera system with 2x optical zoom. The device also saw an increase in RAM to 6GB from the previous 4GB.

Google Pixel 4a - August 20, 2020

The Google Pixel 4a, released in August 2020, sacrificed the 90Hz refresh rate but improved display brightness to a peak of 796 nits, an 83% increase over the Pixel 4. It also boasted better power efficiency, offering up to four additional hours of battery life.

Google Pixel 5 - October 15, 2020

Battery life took center stage with the Google Pixel 5, launched in October 2020, featuring a 4080mAh battery for nearly 50% more longevity per charge than the Pixel 4. It integrated the Pixel 4a's display brightness and added reverse wireless charging.

Google Pixel 5a - August 26, 2021

The Google Pixel 5a, released in August 2021, closely resembles the Pixel 5 but offers a slightly larger 6.34-inch display and a bigger 4680mAh battery. However, it lacks the wireless charging capabilities of its predecessor.

Google Pixel 6 - October 28, 2021

The Google Pixel 6, launched in October 2021, introduced a distinctive camera bar design and debuted at $100 less than the Pixel 5. It brought significant camera improvements, especially in low-light conditions, and the Pro version was highly favored that year.

Google Pixel 6a - July 21, 2022

The Google Pixel 6a arrived in July 2022, trading the 90Hz refresh rate for a 60Hz display and reducing RAM from 8GB to 6GB. The most notable difference is the 12.2MP main camera compared to the 50MP on the Pixel 6.

Google Pixel 7 - October 13, 2022

Launched in October 2022, the Google Pixel 7 offered modest upgrades, including an improved fingerprint sensor and a redesigned camera bar. It was a solid choice for those upgrading from older Pixel models, with the Pixel 7 Pro being our preferred model.

Google Pixel 7a - May 10, 2023

The Google Pixel 7a, released on May 10, 2023, features a 64MP main camera, retains the 90Hz refresh rate, and has 8GB of RAM. Despite its smaller size compared to the Pixel 7, it offers similar battery life but slower charging.

Google Pixel Fold - June 20, 2023

The Google Pixel Fold, launched in June 2023, marked a significant shift with its 7.6-inch foldable display. It retained many beloved camera features from the Pixel 7 Pro and introduced unique angles for photography using the foldable design.

Google Pixel 8 - October 12, 2023

The Google Pixel 8, released on October 12, 2023, boasted a peak brightness of 2000 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate, offering substantial improvements over the Pixel 7 series.

Google Pixel 8a - May 14, 2024

The Google Pixel 8a, launched on May 14, 2024, switched to Gorilla Glass 3 for its display. It features a 64MP main camera, differing from the Pixel 8's 50MP setup, which affects the depth of the captured images.

Google Pixel 9 - August 22, 2024

Breaking tradition, the Google Pixel 9 launched in August 2024, introducing Satellite SOS, a fresh design, and a triple rear camera. The Pro version boasts 16GB of RAM, a significant leap forward.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold - September 4, 2024

The latest addition, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, released on September 4, 2024, features a taller and thinner foldable display. It includes OLED screens, with the outer display at 6.3 inches and the inner at 8 inches, and is equipped with three rear cameras and 16GB of RAM.

When Is the Google Pixel 10 Coming Out?

The Google Pixel 10 series, including the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL, is anticipated to launch in Fall 2025. While October has traditionally been Google's release month, the August launch of the Pixel 9 suggests a potential shift to August 2025 for the Pixel 10.