The anticipation for the Pixel 10 series is building, even though its release is still months away. Recent leaks concerning the Tensor G5 processor have provided interesting details, but the latest exclusive information sheds light on the camera capabilities of the Pixel 10 lineup. Notably, it appears that the camera setups for the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 XL will mirror those of the existing Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL. This news may disappoint photography enthusiasts, as many were hoping for significant upgrades in camera technology.
The Pixel 9 series has already demonstrated impressive photographic capabilities, capturing stunning images that have satisfied many users. However, Google's approach to camera innovation has historically been slow and methodical, a trend that continues with the Pixel 10 series. Although the Pixel 6 introduced a refreshed camera hardware design, the Pixel 9 series only saw minor improvements in its selfie camera. While Google may be methodically maximizing the potential of its existing hardware, this stagnation could leave the Pixel series lacking in comparison to competitors like OPPO and Xiaomi.
As I reflect on my experiences with the OPPO Find X8 Pro and Xiaomi 15 Ultra, I notice a growing gap between these flagship Chinese devices and the latest Pixels. This divide isn't just about the number of lenses or the flexibility they offer; it also concerns the quality of the lenses and sensors. The larger pixels found in these competing models help produce excellent photos under various lighting conditions. Their telephoto lenses and periscope zoom capabilities further enhance their versatility, offering features that the Pixel series lacks, such as natural portrait-oriented shots.
The current flagship Pixels feature a 5x (125mm) periscope that feels too long for typical portrait photography. This reliance on aggressive algorithms to enhance ultrawide and zoom exposures may not be enough to compete with offerings from OPPO and Xiaomi. If the Pixel 10 series continues this trend of hardware stagnation, it may struggle to maintain its appeal among serious mobile photographers.
In the past, Google distinguished itself by delivering exceptional photography capabilities at competitive prices. However, with the Pixel 9 Pro and the anticipated Pixel 10 Pro expected to be priced similarly to their rivals, the unique proposition is diminishing. While Pixels continue to produce great photos, the most discerning photographers are increasingly looking towards brands like OPPO and Xiaomi for their advanced features and capabilities.
Despite the challenges, Google remains competitive with major players like Apple and Samsung. The Pixel 10 Pro and XL are likely to hold their own against the upcoming Galaxy S25 Ultra and iPhone 17 Pro Max. However, the introduction of the OnePlus 13 this year, which boasts an impressive camera setup at a lower price point of $899, further complicates the market for the Pixel 10 series.
While there are whispers of potential enhancements in the Pixel 10 series, such as support for 4K 60fps HDR video, these features feel more like a move to catch up rather than lead the market. Even if camera capabilities aren’t the sole reason to love Pixels, the lack of hardware innovation is concerning. The anticipated Tensor G5 processor appears to offer minimal performance upgrades over its predecessor, which could hinder its appeal for gaming and next-gen applications.
Charging capabilities have also been a longstanding issue within the Pixel lineup, and recent adjustments to the 9 Pro XL’s power options seem unlikely to meet the expectations of consumers looking for significant improvements. Although Google intends to enhance its AI functionalities—including new AI camera features—these cannot replace the fundamental need for high-quality photography hardware.
As someone deeply invested in mobile photography, I find myself disappointed with the Pixel 10 series. The stagnation in hardware innovation has led me to consider sticking with the Pixel 9 Pro for the foreseeable future. The Pixel series seems to be transitioning into an era of iterative updates rather than groundbreaking advancements, akin to the evolution seen in the iPhone and Galaxy lines.
While software improvements are beneficial—ensuring seven years of feature support for recent models—the lack of hardware innovation is a significant drawback. The divide between mobile and mirrorless photography remains a relevant issue, and Google’s past role in bridging this gap is now in jeopardy. It is disheartening to see the Pixel series cede its leadership in mobile photography to brands like OPPO and Xiaomi. As we look ahead, we can only hope that the Pixel 11 series will reignite our enthusiasm with substantial innovations for photography enthusiasts.
