Let’s crank this one up to 11, Google.
The Google Pixel 10 signifies a complete decade of Pixel devices. It symbolizes Google’s transition from primarily being a service and software provider to a company that offers a comprehensive range of products, featuring outstanding hardware.
While the Pixel 11 may not appear for several months, there have already been hints regarding its potential, from discussions on design to expectations for the next generation of Tensor processors. The Pixel 11 has the potential to be a significant release for Google.
Google Pixel 11: What we know thus far
Last year, Google overhauled the Pixel’s “friendlier” design, replacing it with what many describe as “sleek” and “clean.” Some of us at Android Central aren’t too fond of the clear iPhone design tendencies of this generation; an interview Bloomberg conducted with Google’s Senior Vice President of Devices & Services, Rick Osterloh, adds to this discussion.
In the interview, Bloomberg disclosed that Google intends to refresh Pixel designs every 2-3 years, which aligns perfectly with the patterns we’ve observed from the company previously. Pixels 1-3 shared a cohesive design language, Pixels 4-5 appeared similar to each other, and Pixels 6-8 possessed unique design features that marked clear generational distinctions.
This leaves the Pixel 11’s design somewhat uncertain. With Google confirming that designs last 2-3 years, we might be on the brink of yet another significant redesign in just a year, or we may have to wait another year to witness changes. Regardless, some sort of adjustment is expected next year, even if it isn’t a complete design overhaul.
SIM vs eSIM
As part of this year’s design modifications, the U.S. models now feature “even cleaner” lines due to the absence of a physical SIM tray. Many users have voiced their frustration over this change, while others remain indifferent. Regardless of personal views on physical versus digital, the absence of a physical SIM card slot is a notable drawback for some users.
It is highly improbable that Google will revert to including a physical SIM slot in U.S. models of the Pixel 11. One reason for this is that the company successfully removed the mmWave “pill” from the Pixel 10’s frame by relocating it to where the physical SIM tray is on some international models.
Carriers like Verizon utilize mmWave in the U.S. for their 5G networks, making it unlikely this will change with the Pixel 11. On the other hand, many smartphone users worldwide depend on physical SIMs due to their convenience while traveling, the non-requirement of internet for activation, the ability to easily use prepaid phones and carriers, and various other advantages over eSIM.
A new Tensor chip
The Tensor G6 is the processor expected to power the Pixel 11, and it is speculated that this will mark a significant advancement for the company’s in-house chips. Tensor G5 is Google’s first Tensor chip not produced by Samsung, resulting in a substantial 35% performance boost over the sluggish Tensor G4 found in the Pixel 9 series.
Tensor G6 is rumored to shift to an even more efficient 2nm manufacturing process, suggesting it could be more competitive in performance with Qualcomm’s chipsets than ever before. Tensor has often lagged behind by as much as four years compared to other phones, and although Tensor G5 competes with one-year-old models, Tensor G6 may finally reach the performance level of devices from 2026.
Furthermore, Google is reportedly exploring the integration of numerous health-related features within Tensor G6 for monitoring breathing, sleep apnea, gait analysis, and more. Additionally, Tensor G6 is said to be capable of efficiently generating video through AI algorithms, so all the impressive new photo capabilities we witnessed this year may evolve into exciting new video features for the Pixel 11.
What we hope to see
This year brought another display specification upgrade for the Pixel 10, which included a new accessibility feature aimed at assisting PWM-sensitive users like myself. The drawback, if you’ve been following display technology, is that Google’s new setting doesn’t sufficiently address the needs of sensitive users.
The Pixel 10 presents users with the option between 240Hz and 480Hz PWM rates; however, PWM-sensitive users require PWM rates in the thousands of hertz, rather than the hundreds. Our hope is that Google’s new setting is merely the beginning and that the Pixel 11 and future models can rival phones such as the OnePlus 13 and Honor Magic 7 Pro, which offer PWM rates as high as 4320Hz (not a mistake).
Additionally, we are eager for improved native video recording quality on the Pixel 11. During the Pixel 10 launch, Google highlighted the outstanding video quality of the Pixel 10 and how it surpasses other Android smartphones. While we commend Google for its advancements, it
