The Google Pixel series of smartphones stands alongside the Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy lineups as some of the most sought-after devices in the market. Since the debut of the original Google Pixel in 2016, Google has consistently evolved its flagship Android smartphones, bringing innovative features and enhancements with each new generation. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or simply curious about the evolution of the Pixel lineup, this comprehensive list of every Google Pixel smartphone and their release dates will serve as your ultimate guide.
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.
AnswerSee ResultsEvery Google Pixel Generation in Order of Release
Google Pixel - October 20, 2016
The inaugural Google Pixel launched in October 2016, marking a significant milestone as one of the earliest smartphones to embrace USB-C technology. This model also boasted a 12.3-megapixel camera, setting the stage for Google's focus on photography. Both the Pixel and Pixel XL variants were released, with the latter featuring a larger display.
Google Pixel 2 - October 17, 2017
Just a year later, in October 2017, the Google Pixel 2 was introduced, bringing notable enhancements to the camera system, including optical image stabilization. A bold move was the removal of the headphone jack, though Google addressed Bluetooth issues from the original model to ensure a smoother experience.
Google Pixel 3 - October 18, 2018
The Google Pixel 3, launched in October 2018, introduced a sleeker design with significantly reduced bezels, resulting in a higher resolution and a larger 5.5-inch display. Wireless charging was another welcome addition, allowing users to power up without the need for a USB-C cable.
Google Pixel 3a - May 7, 2019
In 2019, Google ventured into the mid-range market with the Google Pixel 3a, released in May. While omitting some features from its flagship counterpart, it retained the impressive back camera system. Our review of the Pixel 3a provides insights into its performance and value.
Google Pixel 4 - October 15, 2019
The Google Pixel 4, launched in October 2019, focused on internal enhancements, upgrading the display to a 90Hz refresh rate and improving the camera system with a 2x optical zoom. RAM was also boosted to 6GB, up from the 4GB in the Pixel 3.
Google Pixel 4a - August 20, 2020
The Google Pixel 4a, released in August 2020, offered a cost-effective alternative to the Pixel 4, sacrificing the 90Hz refresh rate but enhancing display brightness to a peak of 796 nits—an 83% increase over its predecessor. It also boasted improved power efficiency, extending battery life by four hours.
Google Pixel 5 - October 15, 2020
Battery life was the highlight of the Google Pixel 5, launched in October 2020, with a 4080mAh battery providing nearly 50% more life per charge than the Pixel 4. It also inherited the increased display brightness from the Pixel 4a and introduced a fingerprint scanner and reverse charging capabilities.
Google Pixel 5a - August 26, 2021
Image Credit: Ars Technica The Google Pixel 5a, launched in August 2021, featured a slightly larger 6.34-inch display and a bigger 4680mAh battery compared to the Pixel 5. However, it did not support wireless charging, distinguishing it from its predecessor.
Google Pixel 6 - October 28, 2021
The Google Pixel 6, introduced in October 2021, debuted a new design with an integrated camera bar and was priced $100 less than the Pixel 5. It brought significant camera improvements, particularly in low-light photography. The Pro version was a standout model of the year and remains a robust choice.
Google Pixel 6a - July 21, 2022
The Google Pixel 6a, launched in late July 2022, adjusted some specs from the Pixel 6, such as reducing the refresh rate to 60Hz and RAM to 6GB. The most notable change was the main camera, dropping from 50MP to 12.2MP.
Google Pixel 7 - October 13, 2022
The Google Pixel 7, released in October 2022, offered minor upgrades, including an improved fingerprint sensor and a redesigned camera bar. While not a revolutionary update, it was a solid choice for users with older Pixel models. The larger Pixel 7 Pro was favored over the standard model in our comparisons.
Google Pixel 7 (128GB)
0See it at Amazon
Google Pixel 7a - May 10, 2023
The Google Pixel 7a, launched on May 10, 2023, brought a 64MP main camera and retained the 90Hz refresh rate and 8GB of RAM. Slightly smaller than the Pixel 7, it offered similar battery life but faster 20W charging capabilities.
Google Pixel 7a
8A slightly cheaper and toned-down 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 June 2023, marked a significant shift in the Pixel lineup with its foldable design. Featuring a 7.6-inch display when open and a standard exterior display, it incorporated many of the Pixel 7 Pro's camera features and offered versatile camera angles using the phone's unique folding capability.
Google Pixel 8 - October 12, 2023
The Google Pixel 8, introduced on October 12, 2023, offered a notable upgrade with a peak brightness of 2000 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate, shortly after the debut 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
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. While maintaining similar performance and OLED displays, the key difference was the 64MP camera, contrasting with the Pixel 8's 50MP but offering a higher pixel count.
Google Pixel 9 - August 22, 2024
Breaking from tradition, the Google Pixel 9 was launched in August 2024, introducing Satellite SOS features, a new design, and a triple rear camera. The Pro series even boasted 16GB of RAM, a substantial leap forward for the Pixel lineup.
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 family, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, launched on September 4, 2024, features a taller and thinner foldable display, with OLED screens on both the 6.3-inch exterior and 8-inch interior. Equipped with three rear cameras and 16GB of RAM, it stands as Google's current premier offering.
Preorder the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold 256GB
0See it at Amazon
When Is the Google Pixel 10 Coming Out?
Anticipation is high for the Google Pixel 10 lineup, expected to include the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL. While traditionally released in October, the shift to an August launch for the Pixel 9 suggests that Google might unveil the Pixel 10 lineup in August 2025.
