Google Pixel: Complete Release Date Timeline

The Google Pixel series stands tall among the elite smartphones, rivaling the likes of the Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy. Since its debut in 2016, Google has consistently refined and expanded the Pixel lineup, establishing it as a top contender in the Android market. Keeping track of every model can be a challenge, but we've put together a comprehensive list of all Google Pixel smartphones and their release dates. Dive into the evolution of Google's flagship phones and discover how they've evolved over the years.

How Many Google Pixel Generations Have There Been?

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

Every Google Pixel Generation in Order of Release

Google Pixel - October 20, 2016

The inaugural Google Pixel hit the market on October 20, 2016, marking the beginning of the Pixel era. This trailblazer was one of the first smartphones to adopt USB-C and boasted a 12.3 megapixel camera. Available in both Pixel and Pixel XL variants, the latter offered a larger display.

Google Pixel 2 - October 17, 2017

Just a year later, on October 17, 2017, the Google Pixel 2 was released. It featured significant camera upgrades, including optical image stabilization. However, it stirred some controversy by removing the headphone jack, though it did improve upon Bluetooth issues seen in its predecessor.

Google Pixel 3 - October 18, 2018

The Google Pixel 3, launched on October 18, 2018, brought noticeable changes such as drastically reduced bezels and a higher resolution 5.5" display. It also introduced wireless charging, eliminating the need for a USB-C cable for power.

Google Pixel 3a - May 7, 2019

In 2019, Google ventured into mid-range smartphones with the Google Pixel 3a, released on May 7. Although it omitted some features from the flagship Pixel 3, it retained the impressive back camera system. Dive into our review of the Pixel 3a to see our initial impressions.

Google Pixel 4 - October 15, 2019

The Google Pixel 4, launched on October 15, 2019, focused on internal enhancements. It boasted a 90Hz refresh rate display and upgraded camera features, including a 2x optical zoom. The device also came with an increased 6GB of RAM.

Google Pixel 4a - August 20, 2020

The Google Pixel 4a, released on August 20, 2020, while omitting the 90Hz refresh rate, made significant strides in display brightness, reaching up to 796 nits. It also offered better power efficiency, extending battery life by four hours compared to the flagship model.

Google Pixel 5 - October 15, 2020

Battery life took center stage with the Google Pixel 5, launched on October 15, 2020. It featured a 4080mAh battery, delivering nearly 50% more battery life than the Pixel 4. Additionally, it incorporated increased display brightness and a fingerprint scanner, along with reverse charging capabilities.

Google Pixel 5a - August 26, 2021

The Google Pixel 5a, released on August 26, 2021, shares a similar appearance with the Pixel 5 but boasts a slightly larger 6.34" display. Despite its larger 4680mAh battery, it does not support wireless charging, unlike the Pixel 5.

Google Pixel 6 - October 28, 2021

The Google Pixel 6, launched on October 28, 2021, introduced a fresh design with cameras integrated into a bar. Despite its advanced features, it was priced $100 less than the Pixel 5. It excelled in low-light photography, and the Pro version became a favorite of the year.

Google Pixel 6a - July 21, 2022

The Google Pixel 6a, released on July 21, 2022, adjusted some features from the Pixel 6, such as reducing the refresh rate to 60Hz and RAM to 6GB. The most notable change was the main camera, dropping from 50MP to 12.2MP.

Google Pixel 7 - October 13, 2022

The Google Pixel 7, launched on October 13, 2022, offered subtle yet meaningful upgrades, including an improved fingerprint sensor and a redesigned camera bar. While it was not a revolutionary change, it was a solid upgrade for older Pixel users. We found the larger Pixel 7 Pro to be superior when compared to the standard model.

Google Pixel 7 (128GB)

0See it at Amazon

Google Pixel 7a - May 10, 2023

The Google Pixel 7a, launched on May 10, 2023, brought a 64MP main camera and retained the 90Hz refresh rate and 8GB of RAM. Despite its smaller size compared to the Pixel 7, it maintained similar screen dimensions and battery life, with the Pixel 7 supporting faster 20W charging.

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 introduced the innovative Google Pixel Fold, featuring a 7.6" display when unfolded. It retained 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, released on October 12, 2023, improved upon the Pixel 7 with a peak brightness of 2000 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate. It followed closely on the heels of the unique 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

The Google Pixel 8a, launched on May 14, 2024, opted for Gorilla Glass 3 instead of Gorilla Glass Victus. It featured a 64MP main camera compared to the Pixel 8's 50MP, offering higher resolution but different depth capabilities.

Google Pixel 9 - August 22, 2024

Breaking from tradition, the Google Pixel 9 was released on August 22, 2024. It introduced Satellite SOS features, a new design, and a triple rear camera. The Pro series even boasted 16GB of RAM, a significant upgrade 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, 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. Equipped with three rear-facing cameras and 16GB of RAM, it's 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?

Anticipation is building for the Google Pixel 10 lineup, expected to include the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL. These devices are slated for a release in the Fall of 2025. Traditionally, Google has favored October launches, but with the Pixel 9's August 2024 release, an August 2025 launch for the Pixel 10 seems plausible.