Every Google Pixel Generation: A Full History of Release Dates

The Google Pixel lineup is renowned as one of the top smartphone series, standing shoulder to shoulder with the likes of Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy. Since its debut in 2016, Google has consistently evolved the Pixel into a premier choice for Android enthusiasts. However, keeping track of all the models released over the years can be quite a challenge. Here's a comprehensive rundown of every Google Pixel smartphone and their release dates, perfect for those eager to trace the evolution of Google's flagship devices.

How Many Google Pixel Generations Have There Been?

To date, Google has released a total of **17 different Pixel generations**. This count encompasses various models, including the standard Pixel series as well as the a-series and the innovative Fold series, but excludes separate listings for Pro or XL variants.

Every Google Pixel Generation in Order of Release

Google Pixel - October 20, 2016

The inaugural Google Pixel hit the market in October 2016, becoming one of the earliest smartphones to embrace USB-C technology. It featured a robust 12.3-megapixel camera and was available in two sizes: the standard Pixel and the larger Pixel XL.

Google Pixel 2 - October 17, 2017

The Google Pixel 2 arrived in October 2017, bringing significant camera enhancements, including optical image stabilization. Notably, it was the first Pixel to remove the traditional headphone jack, though it improved upon some Bluetooth issues from its predecessor.

Google Pixel 3 - October 18, 2018

Launched in October 2018, the Google Pixel 3 introduced a sleeker design with reduced bezels, a 12.5% higher screen resolution, and a 5.5-inch display. It also marked the debut of wireless charging for the Pixel series, eliminating the need for a USB-C cable.

Google Pixel 3a - May 7, 2019

In 2019, Google ventured into the mid-range market with the Pixel 3a, a more affordable alternative to the Pixel 3. While it omitted certain features, it retained the flagship's impressive back camera system. You can find our detailed review of the Pixel 3a to see what we thought at the time of its release.

Google Pixel 4 - October 15, 2019

The Google Pixel 4, released in October 2019, focused on internal enhancements. It featured a 90Hz display refresh rate and upgraded camera capabilities, including a 2x optical zoom. Additionally, it boasted an increase in RAM from 4GB to 6GB.

Google Pixel 4a - August 20, 2020

Following the Pixel 4, the Pixel 4a arrived in August 2020. Though it lacked the 90Hz refresh rate, it offered significant improvements in display brightness, reaching a peak of 796 nits—a substantial 83% increase over the Pixel 4. It also boasted better power efficiency, extending battery life by an additional four hours.

Google Pixel 5 - October 15, 2020

Battery life took center stage with the Google Pixel 5, launched in October 2020. It featured a 4080mAh battery that provided nearly 50% more life per charge compared to the Pixel 4. It also incorporated the enhanced display brightness from the Pixel 4a, a fingerprint scanner, and introduced reverse charging for wireless device charging.

Google Pixel 5a - August 26, 2021

Google Pixel 6 - October 28, 2021

The Google Pixel 6, introduced in October 2021, sported a fresh new design with cameras integrated into a bar. Despite its technological advancements, it was priced $100 lower than the Pixel 5. It also brought significant camera improvements, especially for low-light photography. The Pro version was a standout new device that year and remains a formidable choice.

Google Pixel 6a - July 21, 2022

The Google Pixel 6a, launched in late July 2022, reduced the refresh rate to 60Hz and RAM to 6GB from the Pixel 6. The most notable 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 in October 2022, offered minor upgrades, refining key features like the fingerprint sensor and camera bar. While not a groundbreaking update, it was a solid choice for those upgrading from older Pixel models. We favored the Pixel 7 Pro when comparing it to the standard model.

Google Pixel 7a - May 10, 2023

The Google Pixel 7a, launched on May 10, 2023, featured a 64MP main camera and maintained the 90Hz refresh rate and 8GB of RAM. Despite being slightly smaller than the Pixel 7, it offered similar screen size and battery life, though the Pixel 7 supported faster 20W charging.

Google Pixel Fold - June 20, 2023

The Google Pixel Fold, released in June 2023, marked Google's first major innovation in the Pixel lineup in years. This foldable phone offered a 7.6-inch display when open, with a traditional display on the outside. It incorporated many beloved features from the Pixel 7 Pro and allowed for unique camera angles using the phone as a stand.

Google Pixel 8 - October 12, 2023

The Google Pixel 8, launched on October 12, 2023, improved upon the Pixel 7 with a peak brightness of 2000 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate. It ran on a G3 Tensor chip, offering solid cameras, AI features, and a bright OLED display at an affordable price.

Google Pixel 8a - May 14, 2024

The Google Pixel 8a, launched on May 14, 2024, switched to Gorilla Glass 3 from Gorilla Glass Victus. While it featured an OLED display and similar performance to the Pixel 8, its main camera boasted a higher 64MP resolution, though it lacked the depth of the Pixel 8's supporting cameras.

Google Pixel 9 - August 22, 2024

The Google Pixel 9, released in August 2024, broke tradition by launching earlier than the usual October slot. It introduced Satellite SOS features, a new design, and a triple rear camera system. The Pro series even offered up to 16GB of RAM, a significant advancement for the Pixel lineup.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold - September 4, 2024

The latest addition, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, launched on September 4, 2024, features a foldable display building on the 2023 Pixel Fold. It offers a taller and thinner screen, with OLED displays on both the 6.3-inch outer and 8-inch inner screens. It includes three rear-facing cameras and 16GB of RAM, positioning it as Google's premier device.

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, with a projected release in Fall 2025. Given the Pixel 9's August 2024 launch, it's plausible that Google might continue this trend and release the Pixel 10 in August 2025 as well.