Technology

Google Pixel 10: The New King of Base-Model Flagship Phones

2025-09-04

Author: Emma

A Game-Changer for Flagship Phones

Meet the Google Pixel 10, the most affordable yet feature-rich flagship phone on the market. Priced at £799 (€899/$799/A$1,349), it undercuts its Pro counterpart by £200 while offering more bang for the buck than competitors like Samsung and Apple. This phone doesn’t just keep pace; it sets a new standard for what users should expect from a base model.

Stylish Design with Enhanced Features

While the design closely resembles the Pixel 9, the Pixel 10 boasts eye-catching new colors and a significant addition: a third camera housed in a sleek pill-shaped bump on the back. The premium satin aluminum and glass body scream quality, making it a standout in today’s monotonous smartphone landscape. Plus, the 6.3-inch OLED display dazzles with its vibrant colors and slick 120Hz refresh rate.

Innovative Wireless Capabilities

The glass back isn’t just for show; it conceals Qi2 wireless charging and magnetic accessory support, enabling compatibility with a wide range of accessories, including Apple's MagSafe. Google’s upcoming Pixelsnap gadgets may add to the fun, but this phone is already primed for versatile charging and attachable accessories.

Impressive Specifications

- **Screen:** 6.3in 120Hz FHD+ OLED (422ppi) - **Processor:** Google Tensor G5 - **RAM:** 12GB - **Storage:** Options of 128 or 256GB - **Operating System:** Android 16 - **Camera:** Triple rear (48MP + 13MP ultra-wide + 10.8MP 5x telephoto) and a 10.5MP selfie camera - **Connectivity:** 5G, eSim, Wi-Fi 7, UWB, NFC, Bluetooth 6, and GNSS - **Water Resistance:** IP68 (1.5m for 30 minutes) - **Weight:** 204g These specs ensure that you’re not just buying a pretty phone but a powerhouse.

Lightning-Fast Tensor G5 Performance

Powered by the new Tensor G5 chip, expect a speed boost of 34-38% over its predecessor. While it may not quite reach the performance heights of Qualcomm’s top chip, it efficiently manages daily tasks and apps with ease. Plus, battery life is commendable, offering around two days of light usage or 33 hours of intensive use.

The Future of Android: Experience AI Like Never Before

Running on Android 16 with a commitment to software updates until August 2032, the Pixel 10 introduces an array of vibrant designs and user-friendly features. But the real star is its enhanced AI capabilities. With the Gemini Nano on-device software, features like intelligent writing, dictation, and even real-time translation come together, making the phone an AI powerhouse.

Revolutionary AI Features

One standout feature, Magic Cue, works seamlessly in the background, providing timely suggestions based on your usage. It offers quick access to important details from various apps, saving you valuable time. Imagine getting your delivery confirmation with a single tap during a call! Currently compatible with Google apps, but third-party integration is on the horizon.

Photography That Captures Every Moment

The Pixel 10 is a photography enthusiast's dream with a robust camera setup. It features a 10.5 MP selfie camera and three powerful rear cameras. The 48MP main and 13MP ultra-wide cameras excel in various lighting situations, while the new 5x telephoto lens zooms in beautifully on distant subjects. Plus, innovative features like Auto Best Take and Camera Coach make capturing the perfect shot easier than ever.

A Sustainable and Repairable Choice

Not only is the Pixel 10 designed for top performance, but it also prioritizes sustainability, utilizing 32% recycled materials. Google encourages environmental responsibility with its recycling program and transparency about the phone's ecological footprint.

The Verdict: A New Era for Flagships

The Google Pixel 10 redefines what you should expect from flagship phones at this price point. Its attractive design, fast performance, and innovative AI features make it a compelling choice. While it may not dethrone Google's budget-friendly Pixel 9a as the best bargain, it’s certainly one of the most impressive smartphones currently available—and a fantastic value.

Pros and Cons

**Pros:** - Seven years of software updates - Excellent camera with 5x zoom - Great display - Innovative AI features - Solid battery life - Fast biometric recognition **Cons:** - Face unlock less secure than competitors - Battery life not class-leading - No physical SIM card slot in the U.S.