Google Pixel: Complete Release Date History

The Google Pixel lineup of smartphones stands alongside the Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy series as some of the most popular and best smartphones available today. Since its inception in 2016, Google has continuously refined and expanded the Pixel series, making it a top choice among Android enthusiasts. Keeping track of every model can be quite a challenge, which is why we've put together a comprehensive list of every Google Pixel smartphone, complete with their release dates. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just curious about the evolution of Google's flagship phones, this is the perfect time to dive in and see how the Pixel has evolved over the years!

How Many Google Pixel Generations Have There Been?

In total, there have been 17 different Google Pixel generations. This count does not include separate listings for Pro or XL models, but we have included 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 Google Pixel marked the inception of the Pixel line, launching in October 2016. It was among the first smartphones to embrace USB-C and boasted a 12.3-megapixel camera. Available in both standard and XL versions, the latter featured a larger display, catering to users who preferred a more expansive screen.

Google Pixel 2 - October 17, 2017

Released a year later in October 2017, the Google Pixel 2 brought significant enhancements, particularly to the camera system with the addition of optical image stabilization. Notably, this model controversially removed the headphone jack, though it did improve on some Bluetooth issues from its predecessor.

Google Pixel 3 - October 18, 2018

The Google Pixel 3 introduced noticeable changes, including drastically reduced bezels around the display, resulting in a higher resolution and a 5.5-inch screen. It also pioneered wireless charging, eliminating the need for a USB-C cable for power.

Google Pixel 3a - May 7, 2019

In 2019, Google ventured into the mid-range market with the Google Pixel 3a, a more affordable counterpart to the flagship Pixel 3. While it omitted some features, it retained the impressive back camera system. You can read our detailed review of the Pixel 3a to see what we thought when it first hit the market.

Google Pixel 4 - October 15, 2019

The Google Pixel 4 focused heavily on internal upgrades, increasing the display's refresh rate to 90Hz and enhancing the camera system with a 2x optical zoom. It also boasted an upgrade in RAM, moving from 4GB in the Pixel 3 to 6GB.

Google Pixel 4a - August 20, 2020

Similar to the Pixel 3a, the Google Pixel 4a omitted certain features from the Pixel 4 but made significant improvements elsewhere. It dropped the 90Hz refresh rate but improved display brightness to a peak of 796 nits and enhanced power efficiency, offering an additional four hours of battery life compared to the flagship model.

Google Pixel 5 - October 15, 2020

The Google Pixel 5 prioritized battery life with a 4080mAh battery that delivered nearly 50% more battery life per charge compared to the Pixel 4. It also incorporated the increased display brightness from the Pixel 4a, added a fingerprint scanner, and introduced reverse charging, enabling users to wirelessly charge other devices.

Google Pixel 5a - August 26, 2021

Image Credit: Ars Technica

The Google Pixel 5a closely resembles the Pixel 5 but features a slightly larger 6.34-inch display. It sports a larger 4680mAh battery, though it lacks the wireless charging feature found in the Pixel 5, preventing it from charging other devices.

Google Pixel 6 - October 28, 2021

The Google Pixel 6 made waves upon its October 2021 launch with a fresh design featuring a camera bar. Despite incorporating new technology, it was priced $100 less than the Pixel 5. It also offered major camera improvements, particularly in low-light settings. The Pro version was one of our favorite new phones that year and remains a solid choice.

Google Pixel 6a - July 21, 2022

The Google Pixel 6a, released in late July 2022, cut the refresh rate from 90Hz to 60Hz and reduced RAM from 8GB to 6GB compared to the Pixel 6. The most significant difference was the main camera sensor, dropping from 50MP in the Pixel 6 to 12.2MP.

Google Pixel 7 - October 13, 2022

The Google Pixel 7, launched in October 2022, brought minimal but refined upgrades, including an improved fingerprint sensor, a redesigned camera bar, and better performance. Though not a revolutionary update, it was a solid choice for those upgrading from older Pixel models. We found the larger Pixel 7 Pro to be more appealing compared to the standard model.

Google Pixel 7 (128GB)

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Google Pixel 7a - May 10, 2023

The Google Pixel 7a, launched on May 10, 2023, brought a 64MP main camera, a 90Hz refresh rate, and 8GB of RAM. Though slightly smaller than 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 slightly more affordable 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, launched in 2023, marked a significant shift in the Pixel lineup. This foldable phone featured a large 7.6-inch display when unfolded, with a standard display on the outside. It incorporated many of the beloved camera features from the Pixel 7 Pro and offered unique camera angles using half the phone as a stand.

Google Pixel 8 - October 12, 2023

The Google Pixel 8, released on October 12, 2023, was a notable upgrade from the Pixel 7 with a peak brightness of 2000 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate. It followed the launch of the unique Google Pixel Fold by just a few months.

Google Pixel 8

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 on the display. While it shares similar performance and an OLED display with the Pixel 8, it features a 64MP camera compared to the 50MP on the Pixel 8, resulting in a higher pixel count but less depth due to supporting cameras.

Google Pixel 9 - August 22, 2024

The Google Pixel 9, launched in August 2024, broke from tradition by releasing earlier than the usual October timeframe. It introduced Satellite SOS features, a new design, and a triple rear camera setup. The Pro series even featured 16GB of RAM, a significant leap for the Pixel lineup.

Google Pixel 9 Pro

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 to the Pixel line, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, features a foldable display that builds on the 2023 Pixel Fold. It offers a taller and thinner design, with OLED displays on both the front and interior screens. The outer display measures 6.3 inches, while the inner screen reaches 8 inches. With three rear-facing cameras and 16GB of RAM, it's Google's premier phone currently.

Preorder the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold 256GB

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When Is the Google Pixel 10 Coming Out?

It is anticipated that Google will release the Google Pixel 10 lineup, including the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL, sometime in Fall 2025. Historically, Google has favored October releases, but with the Pixel 9 launching in August 2024, there's a possibility that the Pixel 10 could follow suit in August 2025.