Google Pixel Generations: Release Date History

The Google Pixel lineup of smartphones stands tall alongside the Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy series, cementing its reputation as one of the best Android smartphones available. Since the launch of the inaugural model in 2016, Google has continually refined and enhanced the Pixel series, making it challenging yet fascinating to track the evolution of each model. Below, we've meticulously compiled every Google Pixel smartphone along with their release dates, offering a comprehensive look at how Google has elevated its flagship phone lineup over the years.

How Many Google Pixel Generations Have There Been?

In total, there have been **17 different Google Pixel generations**. This count encompasses the main series but does not include separate listings for Pro or XL models. We have, however, included the 'a' series and the innovative Fold series in this tally.

Curious about how often people upgrade their phones? Check out our interactive poll below!

Every Google Pixel Generation in Order of Release

Google Pixel - October 20, 2016

The Google Pixel, launched in October 2016, marked the debut of the Pixel line. This pioneering smartphone was among the first to adopt USB-C technology and boasted a robust 12.3-megapixel camera. It was available in both Pixel and Pixel XL variants, the latter featuring a larger display.

Google Pixel 2 - October 17, 2017

Released in October 2017, the Google Pixel 2 brought significant upgrades, particularly in the camera system with the addition of optical image stabilization. This model famously eliminated the headphone jack, but addressed some Bluetooth issues present in the original model.

Google Pixel 3 - October 18, 2018

The Google Pixel 3, launched in October 2018, showcased a sleeker design with reduced bezels, resulting in a higher resolution and a 5.5" display. It also introduced wireless charging, eliminating the need for a USB-C cable for power-ups.

Google Pixel 3a - May 7, 2019

In 2019, Google introduced the mid-range Pixel 3a, a cost-effective alternative to the flagship Pixel 3. While it omitted some features, it retained the flagship's impressive back camera system. Dive into our review of the Pixel 3a to see our initial thoughts on this model.

Google Pixel 4 - October 15, 2019

The Google Pixel 4, launched in October 2019, focused on internal enhancements, including a 90Hz display refresh rate and camera system upgrades like a 2x optical zoom. The RAM was also increased to 6GB, up from 4GB in the Pixel 3.

Google Pixel 4a - August 20, 2020

The Google Pixel 4a, introduced in August 2020, skipped the 90Hz refresh rate but boosted display brightness to a peak of 796 nits, an 83% improvement over the Pixel 4. It also offered enhanced power efficiency, providing an extra four hours of battery life compared to the flagship.

Google Pixel 5 - October 15, 2020

Launched in October 2020, the Google Pixel 5 prioritized battery life with a 4080mAh battery, delivering nearly 50% more battery life than the Pixel 4. It also incorporated the Pixel 4a's increased display brightness and added reverse charging capabilities.

Google Pixel 5a - August 26, 2021

Google Pixel 6 - October 28, 2021

The Google Pixel 6, launched in October 2021, introduced a fresh design with cameras integrated into a bar. Despite its advanced technology, it was priced $100 less than the Pixel 5. The camera system saw major improvements, particularly in low-light photography. The Pro version was a standout device that year and remains a strong contender.

Google Pixel 6a - July 21, 2022

The Google Pixel 6a, arriving in July 2022, scaled back the refresh rate to 60Hz and RAM to 6GB compared to the Pixel 6. The most notable change was the main camera sensor, which dropped from 50MP to 12.2MP.

Google Pixel 7 - October 13, 2022

The Google Pixel 7, launched in October 2022, offered a modest upgrade with enhancements to the fingerprint sensor, camera bar design, and overall performance. While not groundbreaking, it was a solid choice for those upgrading from older Pixel models. We favored the Pixel 7 Pro in our comparisons.

Google Pixel 7a - May 10, 2023

The Google Pixel 7a, released on May 10, 2023, brought a 64MP main camera, retaining the 90Hz refresh rate and 8GB of RAM. It's slightly smaller than the Pixel 7 but offers similar battery life, with faster charging capabilities thanks to 20W wired and wireless charging.

Google Pixel Fold - June 20, 2023

Google shook up the Pixel lineup with the 2023 Pixel Fold, featuring a 7.6" display when open and a standard display when closed. It incorporated many of the Pixel 7 Pro's camera features and offered unique camera angles using the foldable design as a stand.

Google Pixel 8 - October 12, 2023

The Google Pixel 8, launched on October 12, 2023, upgraded to a peak brightness of 2000 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate. It followed closely on the heels of the innovative Pixel Fold.

Google Pixel 8a - May 14, 2024

The Google Pixel 8a, launched on May 14, 2024, opted for Gorilla Glass 3 on the display instead of Gorilla Glass Victus. While it shares an OLED display and similar performance with the Pixel 8, it features a 64MP main camera compared to the Pixel 8's 50MP, offering a higher pixel count but less depth.

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 included a substantial 16GB of RAM.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold - September 4, 2024

The latest addition to the Pixel line, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, was launched on September 4, 2024. It features a taller and thinner foldable display, with OLED screens on both the front (6.3 inches) and interior (8 inches). Equipped with three rear-facing cameras and 16GB of RAM, it stands as Google's premier phone currently.

When Is the Google Pixel 10 Coming Out?

Anticipation is building for the Google Pixel 10 lineup, expected to include the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL, with a projected release in Fall 2025. While Google has traditionally favored October launches, the August 2024 release of the Pixel 9 suggests a possible shift to August 2025 for the Pixel 10 series.