Google Pixel: Complete Release Date Timeline

The Google Pixel series has established itself as a formidable competitor in the smartphone market, standing alongside giants like the Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy. Since its inception in 2016, the Pixel lineup has evolved significantly, offering cutting-edge features and innovative designs that have captured the attention of Android enthusiasts. If you're interested in seeing how Google has refined its flagship smartphones over the years, now is the perfect time to dive into the history of every Google Pixel model and their release dates.

How Many Google Pixel Generations Have There Been?

To date, there have been **17 different Google Pixel generations**. This count does not include variations like the Pro or XL models but does encompass separate series such as the a and Fold models.

Every Google Pixel Generation in Order of Release

Google Pixel - October 20, 2016

The inaugural Google Pixel was released on October 20, 2016, and it marked the beginning of Google's dedicated smartphone series. This model was among the first to embrace USB-C technology and featured a 12.3 megapixel camera. The Pixel and Pixel XL versions offered different screen sizes, catering to various user preferences.

Google Pixel 2 - October 17, 2017

The Google Pixel 2 hit the market on October 17, 2017, bringing significant enhancements to the camera with the introduction of optical image stabilization. It was notable for removing the headphone jack, a controversial move, but it addressed some of the Bluetooth connectivity issues found in its predecessor.

Google Pixel 3 - October 18, 2018

Launched on October 18, 2018, the Google Pixel 3 introduced slimmer bezels and a higher resolution display, expanding to 5.5 inches. A key feature was the addition of wireless charging, allowing users to ditch the USB-C cable for power.

Google Pixel 3a - May 7, 2019

In 2019, Google entered the mid-range market with the Google Pixel 3a, released on May 7. While it omitted some features of its flagship counterpart, it retained the high-quality rear camera system. Our review of the Pixel 3a highlighted its impressive value proposition.

Google Pixel 4 - October 15, 2019

The Google Pixel 4, released on October 15, 2019, focused on internal upgrades. It featured a 90Hz display refresh rate and improved camera capabilities, including a 2x optical zoom. The RAM was also boosted to 6GB from the previous 4GB.

Google Pixel 4a - August 20, 2020

The Google Pixel 4a, launched on August 20, 2020, sacrificed the 90Hz refresh rate but compensated with a significantly brighter display, reaching a peak of 796 nits. It also offered better power efficiency, extending battery life by four hours compared to the flagship Pixel 4.

Google Pixel 5 - October 15, 2020

The Google Pixel 5, released on October 15, 2020, prioritized battery life with a 4080mAh battery that offered nearly 50% more life per charge than the Pixel 4. It also inherited the increased display brightness from the Pixel 4a, and introduced reverse wireless charging.

Google Pixel 5a - August 26, 2021

The Google Pixel 5a, launched on August 26, 2021, featured a slightly larger 6.34" display than its predecessor. While it boasted a larger 4680mAh battery, it did not support wireless charging, unlike the Pixel 5.

Google Pixel 6 - October 28, 2021

The Google Pixel 6, released on October 28, 2021, introduced a fresh design with an integrated camera bar. Despite the advanced technology, it was priced $100 less than the Pixel 5. The camera system saw major upgrades, especially for low-light photography. The Pixel 6 Pro was a standout model that year.

Google Pixel 6a - July 21, 2022

The Google Pixel 6a, launched on July 21, 2022, reduced the refresh rate to 60Hz and RAM to 6GB compared to the Pixel 6. However, the most significant change was the main camera sensor, dropping from 50MP in the Pixel 6 to 12.2MP in the 6a.

Google Pixel 7 - October 13, 2022

The Google Pixel 7, released on October 13, 2022, offered subtle upgrades including an improved fingerprint sensor and a redesigned camera bar. It was a solid choice for those upgrading from older models, though the Pixel 7 Pro was preferred for its larger size and features.

Google Pixel 7 (128GB)

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Google Pixel 7a - May 10, 2023

The Google Pixel 7a, launched on May 10, 2023, featured a 64MP main camera and retained the 90Hz refresh rate and 8GB of RAM. Despite its smaller size compared to the Pixel 7, it delivered similar battery life but with slower charging 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 on June 20, 2023, marked Google's entry into the foldable market. It featured a 7.6" display when opened and retained many of the beloved camera features from the Pixel 7 Pro, with unique angles made possible by its foldable design.

Google Pixel 8 - October 12, 2023

The Google Pixel 8, launched on October 12, 2023, introduced a peak brightness of 2000 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate. It was a notable upgrade from the Pixel 7, offering a brighter and smoother display experience.

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, released on May 14, 2024, opted for Gorilla Glass 3 instead of Victus. It maintained an OLED display with similar performance to the Pixel 8 but featured a 64MP camera, which offered a higher pixel count but less depth compared to the Pixel 8's 50MP setup.

Google Pixel 9 - August 22, 2024

The Google Pixel 9, launched in August 2024, broke from tradition by releasing earlier than October. It introduced Satellite SOS, a new design, and a triple rear camera system. The Pro model even increased RAM to 16GB, marking a significant leap forward.

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 released on September 4, 2024. It features a taller and thinner foldable display, with OLED screens on both the 6.3-inch outer and 8-inch inner displays. With three rear-facing cameras and 16GB of RAM, it represents Google's current flagship model.

Preorder the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold 256GB

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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 anticipated to launch in the Fall of 2025. Traditionally, Google has favored October releases, but with the Pixel 9's August launch in 2024, it's possible that the Pixel 10 could follow suit in August 2025.