Google Pixel: Complete Release Date Timeline

The Google Pixel lineup stands tall among the best smartphones in the market, rivaling the likes of the Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy series. Since its inception in 2016, Google has consistently elevated the Pixel, establishing it as a top-tier Android smartphone. Keeping track of each model's evolution can be a challenge, but we've made it easy for you by compiling a comprehensive list of every Google Pixel smartphone and its release date. If you're curious about how Google has refined its flagship phones over the years, now is the perfect time to dive in!

How Many Google Pixel Generations Have There Been?

In total, there have been **17 different Google Pixel generations**. This count excludes variations like Pro or XL models but includes distinct series such as the a and Fold lines.

Every Google Pixel Generation in Order of Release

Google Pixel - October 20, 2016

The Google Pixel marked the debut of the Pixel series in October 2016. It was one of the earliest smartphones to adopt USB-C technology and boasted a 12.3-megapixel camera. Both the standard Pixel and the larger Pixel XL were introduced, with the XL featuring a bigger screen.

Google Pixel 2 - October 17, 2017

Just one year later, in October 2017, the Google Pixel 2 hit the market. This model saw significant upgrades to its camera, including optical image stabilization. Notably, the Pixel 2 eliminated the headphone jack, though it did improve upon some Bluetooth issues from its predecessor.

Google Pixel 3 - October 18, 2018

The Google Pixel 3, launched in October 2018, introduced several user-friendly changes. The bezels around the display were significantly reduced, leading to a higher resolution and a shift to a 5.5-inch display. It also brought wireless charging to the lineup, allowing for cable-free power-ups.

Google Pixel 3a - May 7, 2019

In 2019, Google entered the mid-range market with the Pixel 3a, a more affordable alternative to the flagship Pixel 3. While it omitted some features, it retained the flagship's impressive rear camera system. You can read our detailed review of the Pixel 3a to learn more about its initial reception.

Google Pixel 4 - October 15, 2019

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

Google Pixel 4a - August 20, 2020

Following the trend of the Pixel 3a, the Pixel 4a, launched in August 2020, skipped some features of the Pixel 4 while making significant improvements. The 90Hz refresh rate was dropped, but the display brightness was boosted to a peak of 796 nits, an 83% increase over the Pixel 4. It also offered better power efficiency, adding an extra four hours of battery life compared to the flagship.

Google Pixel 5 - October 15, 2020

Battery life was a key focus for the Google Pixel 5, released in October 2020, with a 4080mAh battery offering nearly 50% more life per charge than the Pixel 4. It incorporated the enhanced display brightness from the Pixel 4a and added a fingerprint scanner. A unique feature was reverse charging, allowing the Pixel 5 to charge other devices wirelessly.

Google Pixel 5a - August 26, 2021

Image Credit: Ars Technica
The Google Pixel 5a, released in August 2021, closely resembles the Pixel 5 but sports a slightly larger 6.34-inch display. It boasts a larger 4680mAh battery but lacks the wireless charging feature, meaning it can't charge other devices like the Pixel 5.

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 the technological advancements, it was priced $100 less than the Pixel 5. The camera system was significantly improved, particularly in low-light conditions. The Pro version was a standout and remains a solid choice.

Google Pixel 6a - July 21, 2022

The Google Pixel 6a arrived later than usual in July 2022. It reduced the refresh rate from 90Hz to 60Hz and RAM from 8GB to 6GB. The most notable change was the main camera, which dropped to 12.2MP from the 50MP on the Pixel 6.

Google Pixel 7 - October 13, 2022

The Google Pixel 7, released in October 2022, offered subtle upgrades. It featured an improved fingerprint sensor, a redesigned camera bar, and enhanced performance. While not groundbreaking, it was a solid update for those with older Pixel models. We preferred the larger Pixel 7 Pro 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, introduced a 64MP main camera while retaining the 90Hz refresh rate and 8GB of RAM. It's slightly smaller than the Pixel 7 but maintains a comparable screen size. Battery life was similar across both models, but the Pixel 7 supported faster 20W charging for both wired and wireless capabilities.

### Google Pixel 7a

8A slightly more budget-friendly version of the Pixel 7, the Pixel 7a offers the same powerful processor, impressive AI features, and capable cameras. See it at Best Buy### Google Pixel Fold - June 20, 2023

The Google Pixel Fold, introduced in June 2023, marked a significant departure for the Pixel lineup. This foldable phone boasts a 7.6-inch display when open and a standard outer display for normal smartphone use. It incorporated many of the Pixel 7 Pro's camera features, with the unique design allowing for versatile camera angles using half the phone as a stand.

Google Pixel 8 - October 12, 2023

The Google Pixel 8, released on October 12, 2023, offered substantial upgrades over the Pixel 7 series. Key features included a peak brightness of 2000 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate. It was launched just months after the innovative Google Pixel Fold.

### Google Pixel 8

12Powered by the G3 Tensor chip, you'll enjoy robust cameras, intelligent AI functions, and a vibrant OLED display at 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 both models share an OLED display and similar performance, the main camera on the Pixel 8a is a 64MP, compared to the 50MP on the Pixel 8, resulting in higher pixel count but less depth due to the supporting cameras and sensors.

Google Pixel 9 - August 22, 2024

Breaking from tradition, the Google Pixel 9 was launched in August 2024. This shift suggests a new release strategy might be in place. The Pixel 9 introduced Satellite SOS features, a new design, and a triple rear camera. The Pro series even upped the RAM to 16GB, marking a significant advancement for the Pixel lineup.

### Google Pixel 9 Pro

0With its elegant design, exceptional cameras, quality display, and extensive software support, the Pixel 9 Pro stands out as a top-tier smartphone. See it at AmazonSee 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, was released on September 4, 2024. Building on the 2023 Pixel Fold, 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's currently Google's premier foldable device.

### Preorder the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold 256GB

0See it at Amazon

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 seems plausible.