The history of the Google Pixel: Past, present and future phones compared

Since it began life, the Google Pixel series has changed significantly, becoming a major player in the smartphone market. From the original Pixel to the upcoming Pixel 9 lineup, Google’s phones have continually pushed the boundaries of innovation, software integration and camera technology. Google launched its Pixel range of smartphones back in 2016 and since then they’ve gone on to become a firm favourite for Android fans. Renowned for their excellent cameras, Pixel phones have offered the simple, uncluttered version of Android that Google always intended, prioritising user experience. Another reason for their popularity is that they’ve usually been quite affordable, just like the Nexus phones that preceded them. This has begun to change in recent years, with Google adding a Pro model, giving people the chance to opt for the premium flagship experience that rivals phones from the likes of Apple and Samsung. But the continued release of both a standard model and the ‘a’ range of budget-conscious phones makes sure there’s something for everyone. This article will explore the history of the Google Pixel series, summarising their release dates and prices, key features and brief overviews, alongside an indicator whether each is worth buying at the time of writing in 2024. Google Pixel 9 series Google Pixel 9 Launch date: Likely August 2024 Price at launch: To be announced Expected features: New Tensor G4 chip Enhanced camera system Latest Android version OnLeaks x 91Mobiles OnLeaks x 91Mobiles OnLeaks x 91Mobiles The Pixel 9 is expected to be a significant upgrade from its predecessors, with the new Tensor G4 chip being a major highlight. This chip is anticipated to bring enhanced AI functionalities, making tasks like voice recognition, photography and real-time translations more efficient and accurate. The camera system is also expected to see substantial improvements, leveraging Google’s expertise in photography to deliver superior image quality. Read more in our Google Pixel 9 guide. Google Pixel 9 Pro Launch date: August 2024 Price at launch: To be announced Expected features: Larger display with 120Hz refresh rate Enhanced camera system with better zoom Larger battery Google Google Google The Pixel 9 Pro is set to cater to users looking for a more premium experience, offering a larger display that enhances media consumption and gaming. The camera system will likely include additional sensors and improved zoom capabilities, meaning it’ll probably continue to be a top choice for photography enthusiasts. Read more in our Google Pixel 9 Pro guide. Google Pixel 9 Pro XL Launch date: Likely August 2024 Price at launch: To be announced Expected features: Extra-large display Superior battery life Enhanced camera and performance OnLeaks x MySmartPrice OnLeaks x MySmartPrice OnLeaks x MySmartPrice The brand-new Pixel 9 Pro XL is rumoured to be the largest in the series, offering an expansive display that’s ideally suited for productivity and entertainment. Its battery life is expected to be a standout feature, making it a reliable choice for power users. Read more in our Google Pixel 9 Pro XL guide. Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Launch date: August 2024 Price at launch: To be announced Expected features: Innovative foldable design High-resolution flexible display Tensor G4 chip Google Google Google The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is expected to be Google’s re-entry into the foldable phone market, offering the versatility of a compact phone that can transform into a tablet. This model aims to combine cutting-edge technology with innovative design, building on what the original Google Pixel Fold did right, providing users with a unique and flexible device. Read more in our Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold guide. Google Pixel 8 series Google Pixel 8a Launch date: May 2024 Price at launch: £499/$499 Key features: Tensor G2 chip Compact design Improved camera features Chris Martin / Foundry Chris Martin / Foundry Chris Martin / Foundry The Pixel 8a provides the essential features of the Pixel 8 series in a more affordable and compact design. It includes the Tensor G2 chip, which ensures solid performance and AI capabilities. The camera system, though slightly less advanced than the flagship models, still offers impressive photo and video quality, with features like Night Sight and improved portrait modes. The design is more streamlined, making it easy to handle while retaining a modern and stylish appearance. The Pixel 8a is aimed at users who want a powerful smartphone without the flagship price tag. Read our full Google Pixel 8a review. Retailer Price Google €549 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Google Pixel 8 Launch date: October 2023 Price at launch: $699/£699/€799 Key features: Enhanced AI features Improved camera system Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry The Pixel 8 introduced enhanced AI features and continued to improve on Google’s camera technology. The AI enhancements allowed for smarter photo processing and new features like automated scene detection and improved portrait modes. The camera system was further refined, providing even better photo and video quality. The design was sleek and modern, with a refined look that built on the design language of previous Pixel models. The Pixel 8 also featured a high-refresh-rate display, providing smooth and responsive interactions. Overall, the Pixel 8 offered a balanced and powerful smartphone experience. Read our full Google Pixel 8 review. Retailer Price €583 View Deal €583 View Deal Google €799 View Deal €563.66 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Google Pixel 8 Pro Launch date: October 2023 Price at launch: $999/£999/€1,099 Key features: Best-in-class camera Top-tier performance Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry The Pixel 8 Pro offered the best-in-class camera and top-tier performance, making it a flagship contender. The camera system included advanced sensors and lenses that provided exceptional photo and video quality, with features like 8K video recording and advanced image stabilisation. The performance was powered by the latest Tensor chip, ensuring smooth and responsive interactions even with demanding tasks. The display was larger and had higher resolution, featuring a 120Hz refresh rate for an immersive viewing experience. The design was premium, with a glass back and metal frame, giving it a high-end feel. The Pixel 8 Pro represented the pinnacle of Google’s smartphone technology. Read our full Google Pixel 8 Pro review. Retailer Price €756 View Deal €756 View Deal Google €1099 View Deal €819.24 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Google Pixel Fold series Google Pixel Fold Launch date: June 2023 Price at launch: £1,749/$1,799 Key features: Foldable design Triple camera system on the rear Powered by Google’s Tensor G2 chip Jim Martin / Foundry Jim Martin / Foundry Jim Martin / Foundry The Google Pixel Fold was Google’s first foray into the foldable smartphone market. It featured a sophisticated hinge mechanism and a high-quality flexible display that allows users to switch between a compact phone mode and a larger tablet-like experience. The main display boasts vibrant colours and a high refresh rate, making it perfect for media consumption and multitasking. On the other hand (or side of the phone), a smaller external screen allows you to perform quick, everyday tasks such as checking text messages, mail or the calendar. The camera system is designed to deliver excellent photo and video quality, consistent with Google’s reputation for exceptional camera performance. The Tensor G2 chip ensures smooth performance and leverages advanced AI features to enhance user experience. Read our full Google Pixel Fold review. Retailer Price Google 1,90 € View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Google Pixel 7 series Google Pixel 7a Launch date: May 2023 Price at launch: £449/$499 Key features: Budget-friendly Tensor-powered phone Improved camera and display Dominic Preston / Foundry Dominic Preston / Foundry Dominic Preston / Foundry The Pixel 7a offered significant improvements in camera and display quality while maintaining an affordable price. It featured the same Tensor G2 chip as the Pixel 7, providing excellent performance and AI capabilities. The camera system was upgraded, delivering better photo and video quality, especially in low-light conditions. The display was also improved, offering higher resolution and a smoother refresh rate. The Pixel 7a’s compact design made it easy to handle and its build quality was robust, ensuring durability for everyday use. This made the Pixel 7a an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers who wanted a high-performing phone. Read our full Google Pixel 7a review. Retailer Price Google €509 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Google Pixel 7 Launch date: October 2022 Price at launch: $599/£599/€649 Key features: Improved Tensor G2 chip Enhanced software features Chris Martin / Foundry Chris Martin / Foundry Chris Martin / Foundry The Pixel 7 built on the success of its predecessor with an improved Tensor G2 chip and enhanced software features. The new chip provided better performance and efficiency, enabling new AI and machine learning capabilities. The software experience was also refined, with smoother interactions and new features that made the phone even more user-friendly. The camera system continued to impress, with enhancements that improved photo and video quality. The design was sleek and modern, with a refined look that built on the bold design language introduced with the Pixel 6. Read our full Google Pixel 7 review. Retailer Price €439 View Deal €534 View Deal €534 View Deal Google €649 View Deal €443.91 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Google Pixel 7 Pro Launch date: October 2022 Price at launch: $899/£849/€899 Key features: Advanced camera system Larger, higher-resolution display Henry Burrell / Foundry Henry Burrell / Foundry Henry Burrell / Foundry The Pixel 7 Pro continued to push the boundaries with its advanced camera system and superior display. The camera system included a new telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, providing even greater versatility in photography. The display was larger and higher resolution, featuring a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth and immersive interactions. The design was premium, with a glass back and metal frame, giving it a high-end feel. The Pixel 7 Pro also benefited from the improved Tensor G2 chip, enhancing overall performance and enabling new AI capabilities. Read our full Google Pixel 7 Pro review. Retailer Price €784 View Deal €784 View Deal €548.29 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Google Pixel 6 series Google Pixel 6a Launch date: July 2022 Price at launch: £399/$449 Key features: Affordable Tensor-powered phone Compact design Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry The Pixel 6a provided the power of the Tensor chip in a more affordable and compact package. It maintained many of the features that made the Pixel 6 successful, including excellent camera performance and AI capabilities, but in a smaller, more budget-friendly form factor. The compact design made it easy to handle and ideal for users who preferred smaller phones. Despite its lower price, the Pixel 6a did not compromise on build quality, featuring a robust design with a metal frame and plastic back. The phone also offered a smooth and responsive performance, thanks to the powerful Tensor chip. Read our full Google Pixel 6a review. Google Pixel 6 Launch date: October 2021 Price at launch: £599/$599 Key features: Original Google Tensor chip New design and improved cameras Foundry Foundry Foundry The Pixel 6 introduced the Google Tensor chip, a new design and significant camera improvements, marking a new era for the Pixel series. The Tensor chip, designed by Google, enhanced AI and machine learning capabilities, improving overall performance and enabling new features. The design was a departure from previous models, featuring a bold, modern look with a distinctive camera bar. The camera system received a major upgrade, with improved sensors and advanced photography features that delivered exceptional photo and video quality. The Pixel 6 also featured a high-refresh-rate display, providing smooth and responsive interactions. Read our full Google Pixel 6 review. Google Pixel 6 Pro Launch date: October 2021 Price at launch: £849/$899 Key features: Larger display Triple camera system Dominik Tomaszewski/ Foundry Dominik Tomaszewski/ Foundry Dominik Tomaszewski/ Foundry The Pixel 6 Pro offered a larger display and a triple camera system, making it the most advanced Pixel phone at the time. The 6.7-inch display featured a 120Hz refresh rate, providing a smooth and immersive viewing experience. The triple camera system included a telephoto lens, allowing for 4x optical zoom and improved versatility in photography. The design was premium, with a glass back and metal frame, giving it a high-end feel. The Pixel 6 Pro also benefited from the powerful Tensor chip, enhancing AI and machine learning capabilities for better performance and new features. Read our full Google Pixel 6 Pro review. Google Pixel 5 series Google Pixel 5a Launch date: August 2021 Price at launch: $449/£399/€419 Key features: Affordable 5G phone Excellent battery life Foundry Foundry Foundry The Pixel 5a offered an affordable entry into the 5G space with excellent battery life and Google’s renowned camera performance. It built on the success of the Pixel 4a 5G, with a slightly larger display and improved battery capacity, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. The phone maintained the same high-quality camera performance as its predecessors, with features like Night Sight and Portrait Mode that allowed users to capture stunning photos in various conditions. The Pixel 5a also featured a robust build quality with water resistance, making it a durable choice for everyday use. However, it was only ever available in the US and Japan. Read more in our Google Pixel 5a guide. Google Pixel 5 Launch date: October 2020 Price at launch: £599/$699 Key features: 5G connectivity Improved battery life Foundry Foundry Foundry The Pixel 5 focused on providing a balanced experience with 5G connectivity, excellent battery life and a solid camera performance. It was Google’s first phone to be built with a focus on mid-range pricing, rather than competing directly with flagship devices from other manufacturers. The Pixel 5 featured a 90Hz display, which provided smoother scrolling and better overall performance. The build quality was also enhanced, with a more durable design and water resistance. The camera system continued to impress, with features like Night Sight and Portrait Light that enhanced the photography experience. Read our full Google Pixel