Google Pixel 10 Launch Event: Everything to Expect on August 20
After a developer conference focused heavily on AI, Google is shifting its attention back to hardware. The next Made by Google event is scheduled for August 20, where the company is expected to unveil a full slate of new products, including the Pixel 10 series, a new smartwatch, and more.
The event will feature a number of special guests, including Jimmy Fallon, Stephen Curry, Lando Norris, and the Jonas Brothers. While their exact role remains a mystery, it signals Google’s intention to make a significant splash with this launch.
As is typical for Google, extensive leaks have painted a nearly complete picture of the upcoming hardware. Here is a breakdown of what to expect from the Pixel 10 launch event.
The main attraction will be the new Pixel 10 lineup. Google has already confirmed the design, which continues the pill-shaped camera bump and flat display language introduced with the Pixel 9. The family is expected to include four models: the standard Pixel 10, the Pixel 10 Pro, the larger Pixel 10 Pro XL, and the foldable Pixel 10 Pro Fold.
While the screen sizes are rumored to match their Pixel 9 counterparts, the new phones are said to be slightly thicker and heavier. They will also debut in new color options. The Pixel 10 will come in Frost (blue), Lemongrass (yellow), Indigo (light purple), and Obsidian (dark gray). The Pro models are expected in Obsidian, Porcelain (off-white), Moonstone (bluish gray), and Jade (light green).
A key camera upgrade is the addition of a new 5x telephoto lens on the Pro models. The internal powerhouse will be the new Tensor G5 chip. Built on a more efficient 3nm process by TSMC, the chip may not be a massive leap in raw performance but is designed to excel at on-device AI tasks.
Reports suggest the Pixel 10, 10 Pro, and 10 Pro XL will go on sale around August 28. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold, however, alongside other accessories, may not be available until October 9. Pricing is expected to remain consistent with last year, starting at $799 for the Pixel 10 and going up to $2,149 for a top-tier Pixel 10 Pro Fold.
Google is also expected to introduce the Pixel Watch 4. Leaked renders suggest it will be slightly thicker with smaller bezels, allowing for a larger battery. It will likely retain the 41mm and 45mm size options and come in new colors, including Moonstone to match the new phones. A significant change could be a shift to a wireless charging stand, moving away from the pogo pin charger of its predecessor. It will presumably launch with Wear OS 6, which includes built-in access to the Gemini AI.
For audio, Google is not expected to update its premium Pixel Buds Pro 2, but may release them in a new color. Instead, the focus may be on a sequel to the budget-friendly A-series, likely called the Pixel Buds 2a. Details are scarce, but they will likely forgo features like active noise cancellation to hit a lower price point and may come in the new phone colors.
A major new feature rumored for the Pixel 10 is called Pixelsnap. This is believed to be Google’s implementation of the Qi2 wireless charging standard, which uses magnets for faster, more secure charging, similar to Apple’s MagSafe. The phones would include the necessary magnets and be supported by a new lineup of Pixelsnap accessories. Leaked images appear to show a Pixel phone charging on a magnetic puck, adding credibility to these rumors.
As with every Pixel launch, exclusive software features will be a highlight. Given Google’s intense focus on AI, it is a safe bet that new Gemini-powered capabilities will be a central part of the Pixel 10 experience, taking advantage of the new Tensor G5 chip.
The Made by Google event begins on August 20 at 1PM ET.