Google Pixel: Complete Release Date Timeline

The Google Pixel lineup stands shoulder to shoulder with the Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy as some of the most popular smartphones globally. Since its debut in 2016, Google has established the Pixel as a top-tier choice among Android smartphones. Keeping track of each model's evolution can be quite the challenge, but we've got you covered with a comprehensive list of every Google Pixel smartphone and its release date. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just curious about how Google has refined its flagship phones over the years, now is the perfect time to delve in!

How Many Google Pixel Generations Have There Been?

In total, there have been 17 different Google Pixel generations. This count includes the main series but does not list separate Pro or XL models individually. However, we have included distinct models like the a-series and Fold series to give you a complete picture.

Every Google Pixel Generation in Order of Release

Google Pixel - October 20, 2016

The inaugural Google Pixel, launched in October 2016, marked the beginning of the Pixel line. It was one of the first smartphones to embrace USB-C technology and boasted a 12.3-megapixel camera. Both a standard Pixel and a larger Pixel XL were available, the latter featuring an expanded display.

Google Pixel 2 - October 17, 2017

Just a year later, in October 2017, Google released the Pixel 2. This model introduced significant camera upgrades, including optical image stabilization. Notably, the Pixel 2 removed the headphone jack, yet it addressed some Bluetooth connectivity issues present in its predecessor.

Google Pixel 3 - October 18, 2018

The Google Pixel 3, released in October 2018, brought noticeable improvements. The bezels around the display were significantly reduced, and the screen resolution increased by 12.5% to a 5.5-inch display. It also introduced wireless charging, eliminating the need for a USB-C cable.

Google Pixel 3a - May 7, 2019

In 2019, Google expanded its offerings with the mid-range Pixel 3a, a more affordable counterpart to the flagship Pixel 3. Although it launched later, the Pixel 3a omitted some features but retained the flagship's impressive back camera system. For a detailed look at the Pixel 3a, you can read our review.

Google Pixel 4 - October 15, 2019

The Google Pixel 4, released in October 2019, focused on internal enhancements. It featured a 90Hz refresh rate display and numerous camera system upgrades, 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

Similar to the Pixel 3a, the Pixel 4a, released in August 2020, omitted some features from the Pixel 4 but made its own upgrades. It dropped the 90Hz refresh rate but improved display brightness to a peak of 796 nits—an 83% increase over the Pixel 4. It also became more power-efficient, offering an additional four hours of battery life.

Google Pixel 5 - October 15, 2020

Battery life was a major focus for the Google Pixel 5, released in October 2020. It featured a 4080mAh battery, delivering nearly 50% more battery life per charge than the Pixel 4. The Pixel 5 also adopted the increased display brightness from the Pixel 4a and added a fingerprint scanner and reverse charging capability.

Google Pixel 5a - August 26, 2021

Image Credit: Ars Technica The Google Pixel 5a, launched in August 2021, closely resembles the Pixel 5 but boasts a slightly larger 6.34-inch display. It has a bigger 4680mAh battery but does not support wireless charging, unlike the Pixel 5.

Google Pixel 6 - October 28, 2021

The Google Pixel 6, released in October 2021, introduced a fresh design with cameras integrated into a bar. Despite new technology, it launched at $100 less than the Pixel 5. Camera improvements allowed for better low-light photography. The Pro version was among our favorite new phones that year and remains a solid choice.

Google Pixel 6a - July 21, 2022

The Google Pixel 6a, which arrived in late July 2022, reduced the refresh rate to 60Hz and RAM to 6GB from the Pixel 6. The most significant change was the main camera sensor, dropping from 50MP on the Pixel 6 to 12.2MP on the Pixel 6a.

Google Pixel 7 - October 13, 2022

The Google Pixel 7, launched in October 2022, offered minor upgrades, refining key features. It included an improved fingerprint sensor, a redesigned camera bar, and enhanced performance. While not groundbreaking, it was a solid upgrade for those with older Pixel models. We favored 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, brought a 64MP main camera, a 90Hz refresh rate, and 8GB of RAM. Despite being smaller than the Pixel 7, it retains a similar screen size. Battery life was comparable, but the Pixel 7 recharges faster with 20W fast charging for both wired and wireless capabilities.

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

The Google Pixel Fold, released in June 2023, marked a significant shift with its foldable design. It features a 7.6-inch display when unfolded and a standard display on the outside. The Fold incorporates many of the Pixel 7 Pro's camera features and offers unique camera angles by using the phone as a stand.

Google Pixel 8 - October 12, 2023

The Google Pixel 8, launched on October 12, 2023, offered substantial upgrades from the Pixel 7, including a peak brightness of 2000 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate. It arrived shortly after the innovative Google 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, opted for Gorilla Glass 3 instead of Gorilla Glass Victus. It features an OLED display and similar performance to the Pixel 8, but the camera setup differs with a 64MP main camera on the Pixel 8a compared to a 50MP camera on the Pixel 8.

Google Pixel 9 - August 22, 2024

The Google Pixel 9, released in August 2024, broke tradition by launching earlier than the usual October timeframe. It introduced Satellite SOS features, a new design, and a triple rear camera. The Pro series even upped the RAM to 16GB, marking a significant leap forward 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 addition, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, released on September 4, 2024, builds on the 2023 Pixel Fold. It features a taller and thinner foldable display, with OLED screens on both the front and interior. The outer display measures 6.3 inches, while the inner screen expands to 8 inches. With three rear-facing cameras and 16GB of RAM, it stands as Google's premier phone currently.

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 the Fall of 2025. While Google typically favored October releases, the Pixel 9's August 2024 launch suggests that the Pixel 10 might follow suit in August 2025.