Google Pixel 10 Review: Setting New Standards for Flagship Smartphones

google has unveiled the affordable Pixel 10, boasting enhanced cameras, speedier processors, and high-end software, stepping out from the shadows of its pricier professional counterparts to redefine expectations for flagship phones in the base model category.

The standard Pixel 10 is priced at £799 (€899/$799/$1,349) – the same as last year’s Pixel 9 – positioning it strategically below the £200 mark of the 10 Pro while competing effectively with rivals from Samsung and Apple.

The design closely mirrors that of the Pixel 9, featuring some new striking colors and the essential third camera situated in a distinctive tablet-shaped bump at the back. The satin aluminum and glass finish conveys high-quality craftsmanship, distinguishing it from the plethora of uniform smartphones. The 6.3-inch OLED display is sharp, exceptionally bright, and fluid with a 120Hz refresh rate.

The glass back conceals another noteworthy upgrade: QI2 wireless charging and compatibility with magnetic accessories. Google has developed its own pixelsnap, an accessory QI2 is an open standard also compatible with a variety of Apple’s Magsaf accessories, such as chargers, wallets, grips, and stands that attach to the back of the phone.

Specifications

• Screen: 6.3in 120Hz FHD+ OLED (422ppi)

• Processor: Google Tensor G5

• RAM: 12GB

• Storage: 128 or 256GB

• Operating System: Android 16

• Camera: 48MP + 13MP UW + 10.8MP 5X TELE; 10.5MP Selfie

• Connectivity: 5G, ESIM, WiFi 6E, NFC, Bluetooth 6, GNSS

• Water Resistance: IP68 (1.5m in 30 minutes)

• Size: 152.8 x 72.0 x 8.6mm

• Weight: 204g

Tensor G5

Google’s new Tensor G5 chip outperforms its previous processor by 34-38% in speed tests, marking a significant advancement for the brand, although it’s still not quite on par with Qualcomm’s flagship Snapdragon processors employed by competitors. Users will perceive a boost in speed during operation, effectively managing most tasks.

Battery longevity is commendable, providing around two days under light usage and approximately 33 hours under heavy usage, including five hours of 5G activity, with around seven hours of active screen time. Users will typically need to recharge every other day.

The Tensor G5 also features a notably faster AI processor that enhances Google’s advanced AI functions, allowing for more sophisticated on-device processing, effectively showcasing Google’s AI potential through the Pixel.

Android 16 with AI

Running on Android 16 out of the box, the Pixel 10 offers software support until August 2032. Google’s Android interface features vibrant typography, bold colors, large buttons, and lots of delightful interactions throughout. Even more subdued color combinations provide a premium experience.

The Pixels leverage some of Google’s most advanced AI technologies, including the latest version of Gemini Nano On-Device. A new voice translation feature allows for conversations simulating the caller’s voice, rather than using the default Gemini voice.

However, the standout AI feature is the Magic Cue, running locally on your device, designed to act as a small assistant to streamline your smartphone experience. It aggregates data from your Google account and phone to offer helpful suggestions when using various Google apps. For example, during a delivery inquiry, an order confirmation email appeared as a card in the phone app providing one-tap access to the order number.

If a text arrives regarding a flight’s landing time, it can automatically extract the date and time from your calendar for quick sharing. Additionally, the Weather app can suggest locations for upcoming trips from your calendar.

While these features may seem trivial, they mark an evolution in the use of AI, transitioning from flashy gimmicks to practical time-savers. Currently, Magic Cue supports Gmail, Maps, Calendars, Notes, Screenshots, Contacts, Messages, Google Photos, and more, with promising expansions in the pipeline. However, the absence of third-party app integration—such as WhatsApp—limits its utility.

Camera

The Pixel 10 features a 10.5-megapixel selfie camera and three rear cameras: a 48MP main, 13MP ultra-wide, and 10.8MP 5x telephoto, addressing prior criticisms of base model Pixel devices lacking telephoto capabilities.

Both the main and ultra-wide cameras deliver exceptional photos across various lighting scenarios, producing vivid contrast and outperforming competitors in low-light conditions. The new 5x telephoto lens captures impressive images and significantly enhances zoom capabilities, reaching up to 20x digital zoom. Although some images exhibit minor graininess when fully magnified, most users will be satisfied with the results.

Google excels in simplifying photography, ensuring good images with minimal effort. The revamped Auto Best Take mode improves upon the popular Group Shot Best Take feature, taking multiple photos and automatically blending them to ensure everyone is looking good. While most shots require little intervention, more complex scenarios with numerous subjects might see increased AI involvement.

The popular Add Me feature has been enhanced, allowing for larger and more intricate group photos, improved to accommodate more individuals and complex backgrounds. The

camera app will also implement C2PA Content Credentials in photos, detailing how images were captured and whether generative AI contributed.

One of the most noteworthy AI features is the new Camera Coach, which utilizes Gemini to guide users in configuring and framing shots for enhanced photography. Pressing a small button in the viewfinder sends the current image to Google’s servers for analysis, providing several suggested configurations. Users can select their preferred option and receive step-by-step advice on adjusting the camera for the shot. Initial tests showed promising suggestions, potentially aiding those wishing to elevate their photography skills.

In summary, the Pixel 10 excels in producing impressive photos and videos, with AI enhancements that add practical value.

Sustainability

The battery israted for longevity, exceeding 1,000 full charge cycles while maintaining at least 80% of its original capacity. Users have the option to repair their devices through Google, authorized service centers, or via self-repair guides and parts available online.

The Pixel 10 comprises 32% recycled materials by weight, including aluminum, cobalt, copper, glass, gold, plastic, rare earth elements, tungsten, and tin. Google will disclose the environmental impact of the device and offers a program to recycle old devices at no charge.

Price

The Google Pixel 10 is priced at £799 (€899/$799/$1,349), available in four color options.

In comparison, the Pixel 10 Pro is priced at £999, while the Pixel 9a costs £399. The Samsung Galaxy S25 and iPhone 16 both retail for £799.

Verdict

The Pixel 10 sets a new benchmark for flagship phones in the base model segment, delivering a premium experience and an impressive camera with a valuable telephoto zoom that feels like an integral part of the device.

While the exterior remains largely unchanged from last year, it offers an attractive design that stands out amid a crowd of similar smartphones. Despite not being equipped with the fastest chip on the market, it operates smoothly, with a battery that lasts between 1.5 and 2 days on a single charge.

Several new AI features provide substantial improvements, particularly Magic Cues, Auto Best Take, and other small enhancements that run seamlessly in the background. Coupled with Gemini, Google has positioned itself ahead in the realm of genuinely useful AI tools compared to competitors like Apple, without compromising the core smartphone experience.

Although it may not be the steal that Google’s budget Pixel 9a offers, the Pixel 10 stands out as one of the best smartphones available, providing excellent value for users.

Pros: 7 years of software updates, 5x telephoto lens, excellent display, Magic Cue, outstanding camera with impressive AI features, QI2 wireless charging, magnetic accessory support, great battery life, ideal size, quick fingerprint sensor, and facial recognition capabilities.

Cons: The lack of a physical SIM card slot in the US, reduced performance compared to flagships, and less secure facial recognition compared to Face ID.