Google unveiled the Pixel 10 smartphone lineup, Pixel Watch 4, earbuds and accessories at its "Made by Google" event in New York City on August 20. The launch highlighted wireless charging compatibility and introduced a suite of new AI tools, including Pixelsnap - Google's response to Apple's MagSafe technology - marking a significant collaboration between Android devices and Qi magnetic charging standards.
Google Pixel 10 Series Supports Wireless Charging
The next-generation smartphones will begin shipping this month, with the feature-rich Pixel 10 Pro Fold scheduled for October release.
- Pixel 10 features a 6.3" Actua display, triple rear cameras and 12GB RAM. Launching August 28 at $799.
- Pixel 10 Pro adds enhanced capabilities with 16GB RAM in 6.3" or 6.8" Pixel 10 Pro XL variants. Triple rear cameras offer 100x zoom (vs. 20x on base model). August 28 release starting at $999 for Pro and $1,199 for Pro XL.
- Pixel 10 Pro Fold combines portability and versatility with 6.4" folded screen and 8" expanded display. Multi-tasking enabled in expanded mode. October 9 availability at $1,799.
Google reinforced hinge durability for over 10 years of folding and included IP68 water/dust resistance. All Pixel 10 models support new Pixelsnap accessories.
Pixelsnap Accessories Introduce Qi Wireless Charging
While Qi2 wireless charging has been available for Apple devices since 2017 and certain Samsung phones since 2015, the Pixel 10 series marks the first major Android phones to adopt Qi magnetic charging. All Pixel 10 models - including Pro Fold - work with:
- Pixelsnap Charger with optional stand ($69.99 with stand, $39.99 without)
- Pixelsnap Ring Stand for adjustable charging position ($29.99)
- Pixelsnap Cases enable charging with case on ($49.99+)
- Pixel Flex Dual-Port 67W USB-C Fast Charger ($60)
All Pixelsnap accessories available August 28.
Gemini AI Adds Magic Cue Shortcuts and Photo Composition Guidance
All announced phones run Google's Gemini generative AI via Tensor G5 chip and Gemini Nano models.
Vice President Rick Osterloh noted AI hype often exceeds delivery, possibly referencing Apple's delayed features like iOS Intelligence. The Pixel 10 series introduces:
- Magic Cue auto-fills existing information (e.g., restaurant reservations)
- Real-time voice translation across 11 languages
- Incoming call transcription with suggested responses
- NotebookLM integration with screenshots/recorder for image suggestions
- Pixel Journal provides AI writing prompts and progress analysis
- GBoard rewriting tools with multiple style options
- AI-generated music tracks from vocal input
- AI-powered photography composition guidance
Pixel 10 series buyers get one year free Google AI Pro (available on Pro models). This bundling strategy promotes video generation and other AI tools.
Pixel Buds 2A and Pro 2 Feature Enhanced Sweat/Water Resistance
Accompanying earbuds include:
- Pixel Buds 2a (now preorderable) at $129, launching October 9
- Pixel Buds Pro 2 with adaptive audio and Gemini Live (August 28 at $229)
Pixel Watch 4 Available in 41mm or 45mm Sizes
Latest smartwatch features a curved Actua 360 display and Gemini AI integration.
Key Pixel Watch 4 improvements include:
- 50% battery life increase
- Advanced health/fitness tracking
- SOS satellite connectivity
- 15-minute fast charge for 15 hours use
- Pulse loss detection
Pixel Watch 4 starts at $349 (41mm) or $399 (45mm), shipping October 9.
