Google Pixel: Complete Release Date Timeline

The Google Pixel lineup stands tall alongside the Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy series as one of the most popular and best smartphone options available today. Since the first Google Pixel hit the market in 2016, Google has continually refined and enhanced its flagship Android smartphones. If you're curious about the evolution of the Pixel series over the years, you're in for a treat. Below, we've detailed every Google Pixel smartphone along with their release dates, offering a comprehensive look at how these devices have evolved.

How Many Google Pixel Generations Have There Been?

In total, there have been **17 different Google Pixel generations**. This count includes the mainline Pixel series and the specialized models like the a-series and the Fold series, but does not differentiate between Pro or XL variants.

Every Google Pixel Generation in Order of Release

Google Pixel - October 20, 2016

The Google Pixel marked the inception of the Pixel line, launching on October 20, 2016. It was among the first smartphones to adopt USB-C technology, featuring a robust 12.3 megapixel camera. The lineup included both the Pixel and the larger Pixel XL, catering to different screen size preferences.

Google Pixel 2 - October 17, 2017

Just a year later, on October 17, 2017, the Google Pixel 2 hit the market. This model introduced significant camera enhancements, including optical image stabilization. Notably, it was the first Pixel to remove the headphone jack, though it did address some Bluetooth connectivity issues from its predecessor.

Google Pixel 3 - October 18, 2018

The Google Pixel 3, launched on October 18, 2018, brought noticeable changes such as slimmer bezels and a higher resolution display, increasing by 12.5% to a 5.5" screen. It also introduced wireless charging, freeing users from 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 on May 7. While it omitted some features from the flagship Pixel 3, it retained the acclaimed back camera system. For a detailed perspective, you can check out our review of the Pixel 3a.

Google Pixel 4 - October 15, 2019

The Google Pixel 4, launched on October 15, 2019, focused on internal upgrades. It boasted a 90Hz display refresh rate and camera enhancements, including a 2x optical zoom. The RAM was also boosted to 6GB from the 4GB in the Pixel 3.

Google Pixel 4a - August 20, 2020

Following in the footsteps of the Pixel 3a, the Google Pixel 4a, launched on August 20, 2020, made some trade-offs while still improving on key areas. It dropped the 90Hz refresh rate but increased display brightness to a peak of 796 nits, an 83% jump over the Pixel 4. It was also more power-efficient, offering an additional four hours of battery life.

Google Pixel 5 - October 15, 2020

Battery life took center stage with the Google Pixel 5, released on October 15, 2020. It came equipped with a 4080mAh battery, offering nearly 50% more battery life per charge than the Pixel 4. It also integrated the increased display brightness from the Pixel 4a and added a reverse charging feature.

Google Pixel 5a - August 26, 2021

Image Credit: Ars Technica The Google Pixel 5a, launched on August 26, 2021, closely resembles the Pixel 5 but features a slightly larger 6.34" display. It boasts a 4680mAh battery but does not support wireless charging, unlike the Pixel 5.

Google Pixel 6 - October 28, 2021

The Google Pixel 6, released on October 28, 2021, introduced a fresh design with an integrated camera bar. Despite its advanced technology, it was priced $100 less than the Pixel 5. Camera improvements allowed for better low-light photography, and the Pro version was highly acclaimed.

Google Pixel 6a - July 21, 2022

Launched on July 21, 2022, the Google Pixel 6a cut some features, including reducing the refresh rate to 60Hz and RAM to 6GB. The most significant change was the main camera sensor, dropping to 12.2MP from the Pixel 6's 50MP.

Google Pixel 7 - October 13, 2022

The Google Pixel 7, released on October 13, 2022, was a subtle yet effective upgrade. It featured an improved fingerprint sensor, a redesigned camera bar, and enhanced performance. While not a groundbreaking update, it was a solid choice for those upgrading from older Pixel models. We favored the larger Pixel 7 Pro in our comparisons.

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, maintaining the 90Hz refresh rate and 8GB of RAM. Though slightly smaller than the Pixel 7, it offered comparable battery life, with the Pixel 7 supporting faster 20W charging.

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

Google shook up the Pixel lineup with the Google Pixel Fold, launched on June 20, 2023. This foldable device features a 7.6" display when open and a traditional screen when closed. It incorporated many of the Pixel 7 Pro's camera features and allowed for unique camera angles using the foldable design.

Google Pixel 8 - October 12, 2023

The Google Pixel 8, released on October 12, 2023, brought a peak brightness of 2000 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate. It was a notable upgrade from the Pixel 7 line, coming shortly after the innovative 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, switched to Gorilla Glass 3 from Gorilla Glass Victus. While maintaining similar performance to the Pixel 8, it featured a 64MP main camera compared to the 50MP on the Pixel 8, though with less depth due to its camera setup.

Google Pixel 9 - August 22, 2024

Breaking tradition, the Google Pixel 9 was released in August 2024. It introduced Satellite SOS features, a new design, and a triple rear camera system. The Pro series upped the RAM to 16GB, marking a significant advancement for the Pixel line.

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 in the Pixel lineup, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, launched on September 4, 2024, features a foldable display with a taller and thinner design. Both the outer 6.3-inch and inner 8-inch screens use OLED technology. With three rear cameras and 16GB of RAM, it stands as Google's premier phone.

Preorder the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold 256GB

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When Is the Google Pixel 10 Coming Out?

The Google Pixel 10 lineup, expected to include the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL, is slated for release in Fall 2025. Traditionally, Google has favored October for these launches, but with the Pixel 9's August 2024 release, an August 2025 launch for the Pixel 10 is a possibility.