Google put a telephoto on the non-Pro Pixel and snapped in magnets like it’s 2020 Apple—about time. The Pixel 10 is the “default Pixel” again, not the consolation prize
What it is, who it’s for, caveats
A 6.3-inch flagship with a triple-camera, Tensor G5 brains, and Qi2 “Pixelsnap” for accessories. Best for: Camera-First Parents, Corporate Travelers, Social Creators. Caveats: slower charging than Chinese flagships; GPU details TBD for Mobile Gamers.
Key Specs at a Glance
- Display: 6.3" OLED, 1080×2424, 60–120Hz, up to 3000 nits (peak)
- Chipset: Google Tensor G5 + Titan M2
- RAM/Storage: 12 GB; 128/256 GB
- Cameras (rear): 48MP wide + 13MP ultrawide + 10.8MP 5x telephoto (20x Super Res)
- Front: 10.5MP with AF, 4K30/60
- Battery/Charging: 4970 mAh; ~55% in ~30 min (USB-C PPS 30W); Qi2 Pixelsnap up to 15W
- Durability: IP68; Gorilla Glass Victus 2 (front/back)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E; Bluetooth (with antenna diversity); NFC; dual eSIM; USB-C 3.2
- Software: Android 16; 7 years OS/security/Pixel Drops
- Safety: Satellite SOS, Theft Detection, Call Assist suite
Design & Build
Same recognizable visor vibe, but cleaner finishes and recycled aluminum. IP68, flat display, polished back—premium without shouting. The magnets for Qi2 are neatly integrated; cases and chargers snap on with less faff.
Display & Multimedia
Actua OLED at 6.3" hits up to 3000 nits peak, with 60–120Hz adaptive refresh and HDR. Stereo speakers + Spatial Audio are on board. It’s not LTPO-to-1Hz listed, but it’s bright enough for brutal Indian sun.
Performance & Software
Tensor G5 leans hard into on-device AI (Gemini Nano, Live, Magic Cue). Expect faster launches and more context-aware help; Google claims major CPU/TPU gains. Seven years of updates keeps it fresh well into the 2030s. Gamers: Google’s GPU story is light—watch real-world tests before declaring victory.
Cameras
The headline: telephoto on the base Pixel—finally. You get 48MP wide, 13MP ultrawide, 10.8MP 5x tele with OIS, and the usual Pixel sauce: Night Sight, Real Tone, and new Camera Coach to guide framing and modes. Video tops out at 4K60 with 10-bit HDR and expanded stabilizations. Note: Pixel 9’s main/ultrawide sensors were larger; software and G5 will need to carry low-light and detail.
Battery & Charging
4970 mAh gets the usual “24+ hours” claim; Extreme Battery Saver pushes further. Wired tops out at a claimed ~55% in ~30 minutes with a 30W PPS brick (sold separately). Pixelsnap (Qi2) 15W wireless is the big usability win—magnets = consistent alignment, fewer “is it charging?” moments.
Connectivity & Extras
Dual eSIM (no physical tray), USB-C 3.2, Wi-Fi 6E, NFC, GNSS; safety add-ons like Satellite SOS and Theft Detection. Accessories: a flood of Qi2-compatible wallets, stands, and power banks is incoming thanks to open-standard magnets.
Brand claims vs. Verified (so far)
- 24+ hr battery / 100 hr saver: brand claim—needs testing.
- “Biggest performance leap yet” (G5): brand claim backed by stated CPU/TPU boosts; third-party benchmarks pending.
Rivals to consider
- Samsung Galaxy S25: faster charging, broader service network; camera trade-offs vary.
- OnePlus 13: speed + charging king; camera consistency varies.
- iPhone 16: MagSafe ecosystem + silicon edge; AI features differ. (Context only; check local pricing.)