Here’s the thing about the Pixel 10 series: Google didn’t just polish last year’s phone and call it a day. It finally fixed the “good idea, clumsy execution” problem that haunted Tensor chips, threw magnets into the mix like it’s 2025 (because it is), and then quietly removed a couple of things we liked. Net result? A more confident Pixel line that feels ready for prime time in India—if you pick the right model.
What’s new at a glance
- Three slab phones: Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL (there’s also a Fold, but let’s stay focused). All run Android 16 with seven years of OS, security and Pixel Drop updates.
- New silicon: Tensor G5 built at TSMC (N3P)—translation: better efficiency and thermals, with a faster CPU and a much beefier on-device AI engine.
- Qi2 + magnets (Pixelsnap): Built-in magnetic wireless charging across the lineup; 25W wireless only on the Pro XL, 15W on Pixel 10 and 10 Pro.
- AI everywhere: Magic Cue (proactive info cards), Gemini Live (talk to your camera view), Camera Coach, Ask Photos editing, and new “Pro Res Zoom” on Pros up to 100×.
- India pricing & availability: Pixel 10 starts at ₹79,999; Pixel 10 Pro at ₹1,09,999; Pixel 10 Pro XL at ₹1,24,999. Pre-orders live; retail availability kicks off late August. Bank offers (HDFC) and exchange bonuses are live on Google Store India and Flipkart.
The lineup, in plain English
Pixel 10 — the “default” Pixel finally grows up
- Cameras: Now a triple setup: 48MP main (1/2"), 13MP ultrawide, and—big one—10.8MP 5× telephoto with up to 20× Super Res Zoom. Selfie stays 10.5MP.
- Display & battery: 6.3" Actua OLED, up to 120Hz; 4,970 mAh; 30W wired; 15W Qi2 magnetic wireless.
- AI bits: Magic Cue, Gemini Live, Camera Coach, Ask Photos edits.
- India use-case: One physical SIM + eSIM outside the US. (US units are eSIM-only; India models keep the hybrid flexibility.)
Pixel 10 Pro — the small phone with big-boy specs
- Cameras: 50MP main (1/1.3"), 48MP ultrawide with Macro Focus, 48MP 5× telephoto; Pro Res Zoom up to 100×; 42MP selfie. Adds 8K video and Pro controls.
- Display & battery: 6.3" Super Actua LTPO (1–120Hz), 4,870 mAh; 30W wired; 15W Qi2.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7, UWB, Thread.
Pixel 10 Pro XL — the everything phone
- Cameras: Same triple as Pro; bigger canvas for stabilization and heat.
- Display & battery: 6.8" LTPO, ~5,200 mAh; 45W wired; the only model with 25W Qi2.2 wireless.
The magnets, the modem, and the (missing) niceties
- Magnets are a good thing. Qi2 with Pixelsnap finally gives Pixels first-party magnetic chargers and MagSafe-style accessories that actually align and stay put—no more fiddly coils. The Pro XL charges faster at 25W; the others cap at 15W.
- SIM situation: In the US the Pixel 10 series is eSIM-only. In India and most markets, you get the familiar nano-SIM + eSIM flexibility. Travelers in India: breathe easy.
- Battery Share (reverse wireless) appears to be gone on Pixel 10 series—Google’s spec pages don’t list it (Pixel 9 did), and multiple reports say the Qi2 magnet stack leaves no room for the coil combo. If you relied on charging earbuds off your phone, that’s a bummer.
- Tensor G5 matters. Moving to TSMC (N3P) should finally tame heat and stability while pushing on-device AI. Early claims cite notable CPU/TPU gains (we’ll wait for independent tests, but the direction is right).
India-first buying advice (who should get what)
- Pixel 10 (₹79,999): If you want Google’s AI suite, a proper 5× telephoto and seven years of updates without going six figures, this is the sweet spot—especially with HDFC cashback and exchange deals. Just know the main sensor is smaller than the Pros, and wireless tops out at 15W.
- Pixel 10 Pro (₹1,09,999): You shoot a lot, want 8K video, 100× AI zoom, a 42MP selfie, and better ultrawide macro. Also get Wi-Fi 7/UWB/Thread for a more future-proof ecosystem.
- Pixel 10 Pro XL (₹1,24,999): You prefer big screens and faster 25W Qi2 wireless, plus the biggest battery. It’s the only model that makes the most of Google’s new magnetic chargers.
What I love (and what might annoy you)
Love:
- Seven-year update promise.
- The base Pixel finally gets a real telephoto.
- Qi2 magnets and an official accessory ecosystem.
- Tensor G5 moving to TSMC—should help battery and thermals.
Meh/Annoying:
- Reverse wireless charging looks axed.
- Charging speeds still modest vs Chinese rivals.
- Base model’s smaller sensors mean Pros remain the camera kings.
Bottom line
If you’re in India and have been waiting for Pixels to truly mature, this is the year. The Pixel 10 brings the essentials (and then some) at a saner price; the 10 Pro is the photography play; and the 10 Pro XL is for big-screen/wireless-charging diehards. Just decide how much you care about faster wireless and pro-grade camera extras—then let the magnets snap your decision into place.