Google Pixel 10 Series Hands On The Base Model Takes Center Stage
The Pixel 10 marks a major milestone as the tenth generation of Google smartphone. This year, alongside the new Tensor G5 chip, the company has delivered upgrades that position the base model as the potential star of the entire family.
The standard Pixel 10 Now with a dedicated zoom for the first time
Visually, the standard Pixel 10 is familiar with its matte aluminum frame and 6.3 inch OLED 120Hz screen, now brighter at 3,000 nits. The real story is inside. The Tensor G5 chip promises a 34 percent faster CPU and a 60 percent faster TPU. The battery has grown to 4,970mAh, which is even larger than the Pro models.
The most significant upgrade is the new camera system. For the first time ever, the base Pixel includes a dedicated telephoto lens, a 10.8MP sensor with 5x optical zoom. This joins the existing 48MP main and 13MP ultrawide cameras. This addition is a huge value, eliminating the need to upgrade to a Pro model for a zoom lens. This hardware gives it an advantage over rivals like the standard Galaxy S25, offering a bigger battery, longer zoom, and faster charging, all while matching its seven year update promise. The main question remains whether the Tensor G5 can finally match the raw performance of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chips. The phone starts at $799.
Pixel 10 Pro and Pro XL Even better specs and some Pro only camera tricks
The Pro models, starting at $999 and $1,199, feature shiny frames and different color options. Their Super Actua displays are brighter at 3,300 nits, and they come with up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. A quirk is that the Pro XL supports 45W wired charging while the smaller Pro remains at 30W.
Their camera hardware retains the same resolutions, but Google has introduced new software features. The standout is Pro Res Zoom, an AI powered enhancement that allows for sharp digital zoom up to 100x from the 5x optical lens, all processed on device. The Pro models also gain the ability to shoot portrait mode photos in full resolution.
New software, camera and AI features
The launch is packed with new AI and software tools. Magic Cue surfaces helpful information like addresses and reservations directly inside apps like Gmail and Messages. Daily Hub provides a centralized view of your day’s reminders and appointments, while Pixel Journal acts as a digital diary.
For photography, new voice commands allow for complex image edits using natural language. Best Take has been improved to analyze up to 150 frames to ensure everyone in a group shot is smiling, creating a composite from the best expressions if needed. The entire Pixel 10 line also supports the C2PA standard for content credentials to denote AI generated or altered images. A new Camera Coach feature will offer step by step instructions to help users frame better shots.
Pixelsnap Finally official Qi2 support
A major upgrade for the entire series is the official adoption of the Qi2 wireless charging standard, which Google is branding as Pixelsnap. This brings MagSafe style magnetic charging and accessories to Pixel phones. The Pro XL supports up to 25W wireless charging, while the standard and Pro models are limited to 15W. Google will offer its own line of Pixelsnap accessories, including a charging mount and a ring stand.
Early thoughts
The Pixel 10 line represents a significant step forward. The addition of a telephoto lens to the base model is a huge win for consumers, making it a much more complete package. The new Pro Res Zoom feature is impressive for long distance photography, though its real world limits need testing. While the charging discrepancies between Pro models are frustrating, the overall package is compelling. The Tensor G5s real world performance, especially in gaming, remains a key area to watch. As a whole, the Pixel 10 family appears to be the most well rounded Google has ever made. The phones are available for pre order now with sales beginning on August 27.