Google Pixel Generations: Complete Release Date History

The Google Pixel lineup of smartphones has become a formidable contender in the market, standing alongside giants like the Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy series. Since its inception in 2016, Google has continuously refined and expanded the Pixel series, establishing it as a top-tier choice for Android enthusiasts. If you're curious about the evolution of Google's flagship smartphones over the years, now is the perfect time to delve into the history of the Pixel line. Below, we've compiled a comprehensive list of every Google Pixel smartphone and its release date to keep you informed and engaged.

How Many Google Pixel Generations Have There Been?

In total, there have been **17 different Google Pixel generations**. This count includes the main series and special editions like the a and Fold series, but does not include separate listings for Pro or XL models.

Every Google Pixel Generation in Order of Release

Google Pixel - October 20, 2016

The Google Pixel marked the beginning of the Pixel era, launching in October 2016. This pioneering smartphone was among the first to adopt USB-C technology and boasted a 12.3-megapixel camera. It came in two variants: the standard Pixel and the larger-display Pixel XL.

Google Pixel 2 - October 17, 2017

Released just one year after its predecessor, the Google Pixel 2 hit the market in October 2017. It brought significant enhancements to the camera system, including optical image stabilization. While it controversially removed the headphone jack, it did address some Bluetooth issues from the original model.

Google Pixel 3 - October 18, 2018

The Google Pixel 3 introduced several notable changes, including slimmer bezels and a higher resolution screen, which increased by 12.5% to a 5.5-inch display. This model also debuted wireless charging, allowing users to charge their devices without a USB-C cable.

Google Pixel 3a - May 7, 2019

In 2019, Google ventured into the mid-range market with the Google Pixel 3a, a more affordable alternative to the flagship Pixel 3. While some features were omitted, the 3a retained the flagship's impressive back camera system. You can read our review of the Pixel 3a to see our initial impressions.

Google Pixel 4 - October 15, 2019

The Google Pixel 4 focused on internal upgrades, increasing the display's refresh rate to 90Hz and enhancing the camera system with a 2x optical zoom. It also upgraded the RAM to 6GB, up from 4GB in the Pixel 3.

Google Pixel 4a - August 20, 2020

Similar to the Pixel 3a, the Pixel 4a omitted some features from the Pixel 4 but made significant improvements in display brightness, reaching 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.

Google Pixel 5 - October 15, 2020

The Google Pixel 5 prioritized battery life, boasting a 4080mAh battery that offered nearly 50% more life per charge than the Pixel 4. It also incorporated the increased display brightness from the Pixel 4a and introduced a reverse charging feature, allowing users to wirelessly charge other devices.

Google Pixel 5a - August 26, 2021

Image Credit: Ars Technica. The Google Pixel 5a closely resembles the Pixel 5 but features a slightly larger 6.34-inch display. While it has a larger 4680mAh battery, it does not support wireless charging, unlike the Pixel 5.

Google Pixel 6 - October 28, 2021

The Google Pixel 6 made a significant impact with its launch in October 2021, introducing a fresh design with cameras integrated into a bar. Despite the new technology, it was priced $100 less than the Pixel 5. The camera system saw major improvements, especially in low-light photography. The Pro version was a standout and remains a strong choice.

Google Pixel 6a - July 21, 2022

Launched later than most a models, the Google Pixel 6a arrived in late July 2022. It reduced the refresh rate to 60Hz and the RAM to 6GB, but the most notable change was the main camera sensor, dropping from 50MP in the Pixel 6 to 12.2MP.

Google Pixel 7 - October 13, 2022

The Google Pixel 7 offered minimal but meaningful upgrades, including an improved fingerprint sensor and a redesigned camera bar. Launched in October 2022, it was a solid choice for those upgrading from 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, retaining the 90Hz refresh rate and 8GB of RAM. Despite being slightly smaller, it maintained a similar screen size to the Pixel 7. Battery life was comparable, but the Pixel 7a offered faster charging with 20W 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

In 2023, Google shook up the Pixel lineup with the Google Pixel Fold, featuring a 7.6-inch display when opened and a standard display on the outside. It included many of the beloved camera features from the Pixel 7 Pro and offered unique camera angles by using half the phone as a stand.

Google Pixel 8 - October 12, 2023

The Google Pixel 8, launched on October 12, 2023, brought significant upgrades, including a peak brightness of 2000 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate. It followed closely on the heels of 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

Launched on May 14, 2024, the Google Pixel 8a switched to Gorilla Glass 3 for the display, while maintaining similar performance to the Pixel 8. The main camera increased to 64MP, though it sacrificed some depth due to the supporting cameras and sensors compared to the 50MP camera on the Pixel 8.

Google Pixel 9 - August 22, 2024

Breaking from tradition, the Google Pixel 9 was launched in August 2024. 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 to the Pixel line, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, was launched on September 4, 2024. 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 is 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?

It is anticipated that Google will release the Google Pixel 10 lineup, including the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL, sometime in Fall 2025. Historically, Google has favored October for these releases, but with the Pixel 9 launching in August 2024, it's possible that the Pixel 10 might also see an August 2025 launch.