Home News Google Pixel Release Dates: A Complete History

Google Pixel Release Dates: A Complete History

by Owen Apr 04,2025

The Google Pixel lineup stands tall among the best smartphones globally, rivaling the likes of Apple's iPhone and Samsung's Galaxy series. Since the debut of the first Pixel in 2016, Google has continuously refined its flagship Android smartphones, making each iteration more appealing. Below, we've curated a comprehensive list of all Google Pixel smartphones and their release dates, perfect for those eager to trace the evolution of this iconic series.

How Many Google Pixel Generations Have There Been?

To date, Google has launched a total of 17 different Google Pixel generations. This count excludes variations like Pro or XL models but includes distinct series such as the a and Fold lines.

Curious about your phone upgrade habits? Join the discussion on our platform to share and compare your experiences!

Every Google Pixel Generation in Order of Release

Google Pixel - October 20, 2016

Google PixelThe inaugural Google Pixel launched in October 2016, pioneering the use of USB-C in smartphones and boasting a 12.3 megapixel camera. Both the standard Pixel and the larger-displayed Pixel XL were available.

Google Pixel 2 - October 17, 2017

Google Pixel 2The Google Pixel 2, released in October 2017, enhanced the camera with optical image stabilization. Notably, it was the first Pixel to ditch the headphone jack, though it improved Bluetooth connectivity from its predecessor.

Google Pixel 3 - October 18, 2018

Google Pixel 3The Google Pixel 3, unveiled in October 2018, featured slimmer bezels and a higher-resolution 5.5" display. It introduced wireless charging, eliminating the need for a USB-C cable for power.

Google Pixel 3a - May 7, 2019

Google Pixel 3aIn May 2019, Google introduced the mid-range Pixel 3a, a more affordable alternative to the Pixel 3. While it made some compromises, it retained the flagship's impressive camera system. Check out our detailed review of the Pixel 3a for more insights.

Google Pixel 4 - October 15, 2019

Google Pixel 4The Google Pixel 4, launched in October 2019, focused on internal upgrades with a 90Hz display refresh rate and camera enhancements like 2x optical zoom. It also bumped up the RAM to 6GB from the previous 4GB.

Google Pixel 4a - August 20, 2020

Google Pixel 4aThe Google Pixel 4a, released in August 2020, omitted the 90Hz refresh rate but offered significant display brightness improvements, reaching 796 nits. It also boasted better power efficiency, extending battery life by four hours compared to the Pixel 4.

Google Pixel 5 - October 15, 2020

Google Pixel 5Battery life took center stage with the Google Pixel 5, released in October 2020, which featured a 4080mAh battery, offering nearly 50% more life per charge than the Pixel 4. It also incorporated enhanced display brightness and a reverse charging capability.

Google Pixel 5a - August 26, 2021

Google Pixel 5a

Image Credit: Ars Technica
The Google Pixel 5a, arriving in August 2021, sports a slightly larger 6.34" display and a 4680mAh battery. Unlike the Pixel 5, it does not support wireless charging.

Google Pixel 6 - October 28, 2021

Google Pixel 6The Google Pixel 6, released in October 2021, introduced a fresh design with a camera bar and launched at a $100 lower price than the Pixel 5. It enhanced low-light photography and was celebrated for its value, especially the Pro version.

Google Pixel 6a - July 21, 2022

Google Pixel 6aThe Google Pixel 6a, launched in July 2022, reduced the refresh rate to 60Hz and RAM to 6GB. Its main camera is a 12.2MP sensor, significantly smaller than the 50MP on the Pixel 6.

Google Pixel 7 - October 13, 2022

Google Pixel 7The Google Pixel 7, released in October 2022, offered minimal yet meaningful upgrades like an improved fingerprint sensor and a redesigned camera bar. While not a revolutionary update, it was a solid choice for those upgrading from older models.

Google Pixel 7 (128GB)

Google Pixel 7 (128GB)

0See it at Amazon

Google Pixel 7a - May 10, 2023

Google Pixel 7aThe Google Pixel 7a, released on May 10, 2023, boasts a 64MP main camera, retaining the 90Hz refresh rate and 8GB of RAM. Its battery life matches the Pixel 7, though the 7a supports faster charging with 20W capabilities.

Google Pixel 7a

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

Google Pixel FoldThe Google Pixel Fold, launched in June 2023, introduced a foldable design with a 7.6" screen when open and a standard display when closed. It retained the beloved camera features of the Pixel 7 Pro and offered unique camera angles using its foldable design.

Google Pixel 8 - October 12, 2023

Google Pixel 8The Google Pixel 8, released on October 12, 2023, featured significant upgrades including a peak brightness of 2000 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate. It followed shortly after the innovative Pixel Fold.

Google Pixel 8 Review
8

Google Pixel 8

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

Google Pixel 8aThe Google Pixel 8a, launched on May 14, 2024, switched to Gorilla Glass 3 for its display. It features a 64MP main camera, differing from the Pixel 8's 50MP, which impacts depth and overall photo quality.

Google Pixel 9 - August 22, 2024

Google Pixel 9The Google Pixel 9, released in August 2024, shifted the release schedule from October. It introduced Satellite SOS, a new design, and a triple rear camera. The Pro series upped the RAM to 16GB.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Review
8

Google Pixel 9 Pro

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

Google Pixel 9 Pro FoldThe latest in the Pixel line, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, released on September 4, 2024, features a taller and thinner foldable display. With OLED screens on both the 6.3-inch outer and 8-inch inner displays, along with three rear cameras and 16GB of RAM, it's Google's premier offering.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Preorder

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, including the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL, is anticipated to launch in Fall 2025. While Google traditionally opts for October releases, the August 2024 release of the Pixel 9 suggests a possible shift to August for the Pixel 10 lineup as well.

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