Google’s smartphone journey reaches a major milestone this year with the upcoming Pixel 10 series. As the company celebrates ten years of Pixel phones, the 2025 lineup promises to be more than just another incremental update. From groundbreaking chip manufacturing changes to exciting new features, here’s everything you need to know about what could be Google’s most significant phone release yet.
When Can You Get Your Hands on the Pixel 10?
Mark your calendars! Google has officially scheduled a Pixel event for August 20, 2025, where the Pixel 10 series will be unveiled. According to reliable sources, preorders will open the same day, with phones shipping around August 20. This continues Google’s recent shift from their traditional October launches to the summer release window that began with the Pixel 9.
For anyone planning their next phone upgrade, this timing works out perfectly. You won’t have to wait until the holidays to experience Google’s latest innovations, and the earlier release gives you more time to enjoy the new features before the next generation appears.
Four Phones to Choose From: There’s Something for Everyone
Google is sticking with the four-phone formula that worked well for the Pixel 9 series. The lineup includes the standard Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold. Each device targets different users and budgets, so whether you want a compact flagship or a large-screen powerhouse, Google has you covered.
The variety means you’re not forced into compromises. Want the latest Google features but prefer a smaller phone? The standard Pixel 10 delivers. Need maximum screen real estate for productivity? The Pro XL is your friend. Interested in the future of mobile technology? The Pro Fold offers that cutting-edge foldable experience.
What About the Pixel 10a?
Don’t expect to see the Pixel 10a alongside the main lineup. Like previous generations, the more affordable A-series phone will likely arrive in spring 2026, giving Google time to refine the technology and bring premium features to a lower price point.
Pricing That Won’t Break the Bank
Here’s some welcome news for your wallet. Early pricing leaks suggest the Pixel 10 series will maintain the same starting prices as the Pixel 9 lineup: $799 for the Pixel 10, $999 for the Pixel 10 Pro, $1,199 for the Pixel 10 Pro XL, and $1,799 for the Pixel 10 Pro Fold.
The only catch? The Pixel 10 Pro XL will likely start with 256GB of storage instead of 128GB, matching the storage configuration that was previously available only in higher-priced tiers. This actually represents better value, as you’re getting more storage for the same price.
The Biggest Change: TSMC Takes Over Chip Manufacturing
This is where things get really interesting. For the first time since Tensor chips debuted in 2021, Google is ditching Samsung as its manufacturing partner and switching to TSMC for the Tensor G5. This isn’t just a minor supplier change – it’s a fundamental shift that could address many of the performance and efficiency issues that have plagued previous Pixel phones.
Why TSMC Matters
TSMC will manufacture the Tensor G5 using its advanced 3nm N3E process, the same technology behind Apple’s A18 Pro chip. Samsung’s foundry has struggled with yield issues and thermal problems, particularly with their 3nm production. TSMC’s superior manufacturing should translate to better performance, improved power efficiency, and less heat generation.
Think of it this way: you’re getting the same foundry that makes the chips in iPhones and the most powerful Android phones. That’s a significant upgrade from the Samsung-manufactured chips that sometimes felt like they were holding Pixel phones back.
What’s New in the Tensor G5
The Tensor G5 introduces several notable changes, including a new GPU from Imagination Technologies instead of the usual ARM Mali graphics. This new GPU brings ray tracing support – a first for Google chips – and GPU virtualization capabilities.
Google is also creating a fully custom image signal processor (ISP) for the first time since the early Pixel days. This component is crucial for camera performance, potentially delivering better photos and videos from the same camera hardware.
The CPU configuration remains familiar with one Cortex-X4 core, five Cortex-A725 cores, and two Cortex-A520 cores, but the TSMC manufacturing should make everything run more efficiently.
Exciting New Features: MagSafe Comes to Android
One of the most talked-about additions is wireless charging with a twist. The Pixel 10 series will support Qi2 magnetic wireless charging, similar to Apple’s MagSafe. Leaked images show built-in magnets in the phone itself, not just in cases, allowing for more convenient wireless charging with compatible accessories.
These magnetic accessories might be called “Pixelsnaps,” and they could make wireless charging faster and more reliable by ensuring perfect alignment every time. No more fumbling around trying to get your phone positioned correctly on a charging pad.
Design and Colors: Familiar Yet Fresh
Early leaks reveal the Pixel 10 family will come in several colors, including a striking Jade option for the Pro model, classic black for the Pro XL, and bright blue for the standard Pixel 10. The overall design language appears to build on the successful Pixel 9 aesthetic rather than introducing dramatic changes.
This approach makes sense – Google spent considerable effort refining the Pixel 9’s design, so why mess with success? The focus seems to be on internal improvements and new features rather than external redesigns.
Camera System: Evolution Rather Than Revolution
The camera setup will differentiate the lineup, with the Pixel 10 Pro and Pro XL sharing a “Pro” triple rear camera system, while the standard Pixel 10 and Pro Fold will feature “advanced” triple camera configurations.
The real improvements will likely come from the new custom ISP and Google’s continued AI enhancements. Better computational photography, improved low-light performance, and new AI-powered editing tools are all expected, even if the physical cameras don’t see dramatic spec bumps.
What Pixel Fans Really Want to See
Beyond the leaked features, Pixel enthusiasts have been vocal about improvements they’d like to see:
Faster Charging Speeds
Current Pixel phones charge at just 27W, which feels painfully slow in 2025. Many hope the Pixel 10 series will offer at least 50W wired charging to compete with other flagship phones. The move to TSMC’s more efficient chip could enable faster charging without overheating concerns.
Better Performance Consistency
Previous Tensor chips have struggled with sustained performance due to thermal throttling. The improved efficiency of TSMC’s 3nm process should help the Pixel 10 maintain peak performance longer.
Enhanced AI Capabilities
The new Tensor G5 includes an upgraded TPU (Tensor Processing Unit) that’s 14% faster than the previous generation, with support for on-device training and new AI features. This could enable more sophisticated AI photography, better voice recognition, and new smart features that work without an internet connection.
Potential Concerns and Realistic Expectations
Not everything about the Pixel 10 transition is guaranteed to be smooth. Some reports suggest the Tensor G5 might not offer dramatically better raw performance compared to the G4, with improvements focused more on efficiency than speed.
This is essentially Google’s first-generation transition to TSMC manufacturing, so there could be unexpected issues or growing pains as the company adapts to new suppliers and processes. Early adopters should be aware that first-generation products sometimes have quirks that get resolved in subsequent iterations.
The 10th Anniversary Significance
This year marks the tenth anniversary of the Pixel brand, which could mean additional features or design changes to commemorate the milestone. Google has a history of making their anniversary products special, so don’t be surprised if there are some surprise features announced alongside the expected specifications.
Android 16 and Software Features
The Pixel 10 series will likely launch with Android 16, which is rumored to release earlier than usual, potentially in June 2025. This gives Google more time to optimize the software for their new hardware and potentially introduce exclusive features that take advantage of the Tensor G5’s capabilities.
Competition and Market Position
The Pixel 10 enters a competitive landscape where Samsung, Apple, and Chinese manufacturers are all pushing boundaries. However, Google’s strength lies in software integration and AI features rather than raw specs. The combination of TSMC manufacturing, custom AI silicon, and deep Android integration could give Pixel phones a unique advantage that specs alone don’t capture.
Should You Wait for the Pixel 10?
If you’re currently using an older Pixel or considering switching from another brand, the Pixel 10 represents a compelling upgrade opportunity. The switch to TSMC manufacturing alone addresses many longstanding Pixel issues, while new features like magnetic wireless charging add genuine convenience.
Current Pixel 9 owners might want to wait and see how the first-generation TSMC transition goes before upgrading, unless the magnetic charging or other new features are particularly appealing.
The Bottom Line
The Google Pixel 10 series shapes up to be more than just another annual refresh. The fundamental shift to TSMC manufacturing, combined with new features like magnetic wireless charging and a custom ISP, suggests Google is serious about addressing user complaints while maintaining their focus on AI and computational photography.
While we won’t know the full story until August 20th, early signs point to this being the most significant Pixel update in years. Whether you’re a longtime Google fan or someone considering their first Pixel, the 10 series offers compelling reasons to pay attention.
The real test will be whether Google can successfully execute this transition and deliver on the promise of better performance, efficiency, and user experience. Based on the leaks and rumors so far, they seem to be on the right track.