Amazon has confirmed that its next Prime Big Deal Days sale event will occur on October 6th and 7th, but you don't need to wait to score an incredible Google Pixel phone deal. For a limited time, the retailer is slashing $200 off the unlocked Google Pixel 10 Pro, knocking the price of the last-gen flagship down to just $799. That makes it $100 cheaper than the base model Google Pixel 11 and $300 cheaper than the new Pixel 11 Pro!

Some folks may be hesitant to purchase a last-gen smartphone, even at a discount, but I can confidently say that the Google Pixel 10 Pro still holds its own against the best Android phones on the market. That said, there are a few drawbacks that you should consider before taking the leap. Is this Pixel 10 Pro deal right for you? Let's break it down.

• Prime Big Deal Days returns Oct 6-7: see the 20+ best early deals available now

The Pixel 10 Pro boasts a gorgeous 6.3-inch pOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, while under the hood you get 16GB of RAM, an efficient Tensor G5 chipset, and all of the versatile AI-boosted camera tech that Google is known for. The phone also got a boost to its battery life compared to its predecessor, plus you'll enjoy faster charging speeds with Qi2 magnetic charging support.

So what's the catch? Well, with Big Deal Days and Black Friday just around the corner, there's a good chance that the price of the Pixel 10 Pro will dip even further in the coming weeks. That said, there's an equally good chance that the Pixel 10 Pro will completely sell out before that time.

If you've been interested in this particular phone for a while, I'd take your chances and place the order today. The Pixel 10 Pro is a great device, after all, and the six remaining software updates ensure that the phone won't feel obsolete any time soon. If, on the other hand, you're simply looking for a great Pixel phone and you're in no hurry to make a purchase, it might be worth waiting a bit to see what the fall sale season has in store for the Pixel 11 lineup.

What you need to know

• Google's September Pixel Drop is live, hitting Pixel phones, tablets, and watches with home screen upgrades, fraud protections, and new watch gestures.
• Pixel VIPs gets a proper home-screen upgrade: one-tap calls and texts, notification badges for unread or urgent messages, and a floating nav bar to swipe between contacts.
• Scam Detection now covers more languages and regions for chat notifications, and Gboard flags suspicious messages as you type.

Google today rolled out its September Pixel Drop, which includes a new batch of updates for Pixel phones, tablets, and smartwatches. The latest release brings updated home screen tools, improved fraud protections, new smartwatch gestures, and a spellbinding audio partnership to tie it all together.

Google has been working on its VIP contact concept for some time, but this update makes it really useful. The tech giant is giving the feature a new home-screen experience, letting you call or text your favorite contacts with a single tap. New notification badges indicate unread messages or urgent messages, and a floating navigation bar lets you swipe between VIP profiles without having to dig through menus.

The update works on Pixel 6 and newer phones worldwide, provided the required Contacts and Pixel VIPs app versions are installed.

Scam Detection is also expanding to more languages and regions for chat notifications, and Gboard can now flag suspicious messages from supported chat apps directly as you type. Availability varies by country and language, so this isn’t a universal rollout just yet.

Pixel Watch gets a smaller but useful upgrade. Raise to Talk gets enhancements on Pixel Watch 4 and newer. On Pixel Watch 3 and newer, you can launch and scroll through the notification tray with a one-handed pinch gesture.

There’s also a much less serious addition: Harry Potter Audiobook Packs can change a Pixel’s wallpaper, icons, and sounds, and eligible users will receive a two-month Audible trial. The packs are good through December 31.

The fall sale season is quickly approaching, but you don't need to wait for Black Friday to score some exceptional smartphone deals. Case in point: for a limited time, Amazon is slashing 15% off the Google Pixel 10a, which was already my favorite cheap Android phone on the market.

The deal drops the price of the unlocked Pixel 10a down to just $424, no trade-in required. That said, if you do have an old or broken device lying around, Amazon is offering up to $420 (in the form of a gift card) when you process a trade. What's the point of Black Friday when the Google Pixel deals are already this good?

Typically priced around $499 for the 128GB configuration, the Google Pixel 10a is a midrange phone that punches well above its weight class. Straight out of the box, the Pixel 10a boasts a stunning 6.3-inch 120Hz pOLED display with IP68 durability and 3,000 nits of brightness, while under the hood you get Android 16, 8GB of RAM, and a 5,100mAh battery that's actually larger than what's found inside the base model Pixel 10.

At 183 grams, the Pixel 10a is also lighter than its flagship counterpart, while both phones share many of the same camera tech and software features. The Google Pixel 10a even comes with seven years of OS and security upgrades, which is a rarity for devices in this price category.

Of course, no phone is perfect. The Pixel 10a surprised us all by utilizing the last-gen Google Tensor G4 chipset instead of the newer G5, plus you don't get Qi2 charging support or as many AI features as you would with a flagship Pixel. It's also worth mentioning that, with Black Friday just around the corner, we might see some Pixel deals that drop the price of the Pixel 10a even further in the coming weeks.

With all of that being said, if you just want a great phone at a great price today, the Google Pixel 10a might be the midrange masterpiece that you're searching for. The phone is already worth a look at full price, but this Amazon discount is simply the cherry on top.

The Pixel 11 isn't notably different to its predecessor, and it doesn't even get new cameras — unlike the Pro models. That's annoying to say the least, but to its credit, Google added a decent number of software and camera features.

The one I like the most is Magic Capture; it makes taking photos of fast-moving subjects effortless, and it isn't gated to the Pro models — the standard Pixel 11 gets it too.

What is Magic Capture on the Pixel 11?

Magic Capture is a dedicated camera mode on the Pixel 11. It starts taking a video when you hit the shutter button, and then uses on-device AI models to analyze the frames and find the best still photo. That image is then turned into a high-resolution HDR photo.

Basically, the feature is designed to make it easy to take photos of fast-moving objects. If you have kids that are constantly on the move, the mode ensures you get images that aren't blurry. It genuinely makes a big difference, and having used it extensively on my Pixel 11 Pro XL, I'm glad that the feature is just as usable on the standard Pixel 11 as well.

You get a set of images when using Magic Capture, and the video that's shot is also available if you need it. The video itself isn't shot in 4K, so you don't quite get the best definition if that's what you're after — the goal with the mode is to deliver HDR photos of the best moments in the video. All of it is done on-device, and it doesn't take much time either.

How to use Magic Capture on the Pixel 11

Google needlessly made the viewfinder controls convoluted to use, and instead of having a Video mode like every other brand, it clubbed it into a toggle in the Photo mode. Magic Capture adds to that, with the mode available as another toggle within the Photo mode. This is how to access it:

1. Launch the Camera on your Pixel 11.
2. Choose Photo.
3. In the bottom row, choose the left-most toggle to enable Magic Capture.

I prefer the cameras on the Pixel 11 Pro XL (obviously), but it's good to see the Pixel 11 getting all the new software features. Also, while the camera modules haven't changed this year on the Pixel 11, the phone takes better photos thanks to tweaks to Google's camera algorithms. Then there are features like Camera Looks that go a long way in changing the look and feel of the photos.

What you need to know

• Google has officially removed the Pixel Tablet from its online store after listing it as out of stock.
• The Pixel Tablet has also disappeared from major retailers including Amazon and Best Buy.
• Google reportedly canceled plans for second- and third-generation Pixel Tablets due to sales and profitability concerns.
• Existing Pixel Tablet owners will continue receiving software updates until mid-2028 despite the lineup's end.

The Pixel Tablet is finally dead. Like, properly dead dead.

Google launched the Pixel Tablet back in 2023 as a hybrid device that could work as both a traditional Android tablet and a smart home display when placed on its charging dock. At $499, the Pixel Tablet offered a pretty interesting combination on paper, but reactions to the device were mixed after launch.

Google reportedly had plans for a second-generation Pixel Tablet in 2025 and even a third-generation model in 2027. But amid poor sales and profitability concerns, the company reportedly pulled the plug on those plans back in 2024. Despite that, the original Pixel Tablet remained available through the Google Store and retailers for quite some time. Until now.

As spotted by Jetstream, Google has officially removed the Pixel Tablet from the Google Store. The tablet was listed as "out of stock" until a few days ago, but the product page has now been removed altogether, effectively confirming that Google is done selling the device. The Pixel Tablet has also disappeared from retailers, including Amazon and Best Buy.

That means there's now no official way to buy a new Pixel Tablet. You may still be able to find remaining stock through smaller online retailers or pick one up from a reseller, but Google's own inventory is officially gone.

The good news for existing Pixel Tablet owners is that software support isn't ending anytime soon. Google is expected to continue supporting the device with updates until mid-2028. But unless Google decides to resurrect its tablet ambitions again, there won't be another Pixel Tablet waiting to replace it.

The Pixel Tablet was an interesting idea. Having one device that could work as both an Android tablet and a smart home display made plenty of sense, especially inside Google's ecosystem. Unfortunately, the idea never really took off.

So, RIP Pixel Tablet. This time, it looks like it's actually over.

If I had to pick just one reason to recommend Google's Pixel 11 series of phones, it would be for Magic Capture. This Pixel 11-exclusive Gemini feature uses AI smarts to automatically capture photos while you're recording a video with your smartphone.

It ensures the best moments are delivered in picture-perfect HDR+ detail, so you can stay in the moment instead of trying to strike the right pose. Better yet, it retains the video you captured, so you get a top-notch video recording and effortless photos from every moment.

We've seen similar auto-capture features from companies like Honor, but Google's implementation goes further than any of them have, and it does it all in an impressively simple way, too. If you've got a Pixel 11 series phone, here's what you need to know about Magic Capture (and why you need to use it immediately).

What is Magic Capture and how does it work?

Magic Capture is a new main camera mode on the Google Pixel 11 series. Google puts it alongside the main photo and video modes, which makes sense since it combines both. Once you start a Magic Capture recording, you can just focus on capturing the moment instead of worrying about getting the right photo.

After you hit stop, the Pixel 11's special version of Gemini will analyze the video locally, so it won't go to the cloud for processing. Gemini mainly captures photos based on expressions, movement, and composition. This means that if someone smiles during a Magic Capture session, for example, you can expect Gemini to create a photo of that moment.

If you tap the thumbnail in the viewfinder, you can watch this happen in real-time. Here's a video example from our hands-on time with the Pixel 11 Pro back in early August 2026.

Gemini will pick out several moments from the video and save them as a photo, but this isn't just a simple frame export of the video. During the Magic Capture session, the Pixel 11 captures several additional frames of data that are used to create a full HDR+ quality photo, which is a substantial step-up in quality versus a simple frame export.

Plus, since Gemini can take multiple video frames and combine them into one excellent photo, moving subjects (like kids and pets) come out crystal clear. I've been calling Pixels the best phones for parents for years, and this levels up that expectation in ways even I didn't foresee.

I've constantly been blown away by using Magic Capture over the past month on my Pixel 11 Pro Fold because of its ability to save those moments I absolutely would have missed if I were just taking regular photos. It's the kind of AI-powered technology that I've been dreaming about, and it's dead simple to use, at that!

What are the downsides of Magic Capture?

While Magic Capture is truly amazing, it does have a few downsides. Namely, you won't get full-resolution video or photos from the captures. That doesn't mean they look bad, but it's worth noting that you'll lose a little quality when you use the feature. Here's how the numbers run:

As you can see, the photos are nearly full quality, but the resolution will vary. By default, Magic Capture automatically crops and rotates captured images to make them look better. This results in a slightly lower-resolution photo, but only because it's cropped and/or rotated. If you wish, you can disable this option in Magic Capture settings to get the full-resolution frame.

Magic Capture only records in 1080p+ quality at 30FPS, so if you're used to 4K60 video, you'll be disappointed with the results. The aspect ratio is also a little funky for a video — it's much closer to 4:3 than 16:9 — but it's not the end of the world. Just expect that videos won't take up the whole screen on your phone or a TV, and you'll be fine.

How to use Magic Capture on a Pixel 11

While some camera modes require you to select a main mode and then swipe over to a sub-mode, Magic Capture is one tap away at all times. Here's how to use it:

1. Open the Camera app on your Pixel 11.

2. Tap the Magic Capture button at the bottom of the viewfinder. It's the button to the left of the camera icon at the very bottom of the camera viewfinder.

3. Tap the white shutter button to start a Magic Capture session.

4. Film anything you'd like to capture, and Gemini will automatically identify moments to turn into photos.

5. Tap the red stop button when you're done filming.

And that's all there is to it! Tap the photo thumbnail in the viewfinder or open your Google Photos app to view the results of the Magic Capture session. Since Magic Capture relies on a local Gemini agent to process the photos, it may take a few seconds to begin generating photos from each session.

The simplicity and overall quality are why Magic Capture is so amazing to me, and it's exactly why Pixel 11 owners should start integrating Magic Capture into their daily routines. Happy capturing!

I've always enjoyed using Pixels, and that hasn't changed in 2026. I switched over to the Pixel 11 Pro XL from the Find X9 Ultra, and while Google doesn't have the best cameras or battery life, the 11 Pro XL is meaningfully different to its predecessor — something I realized after two weeks of use.

I have all major phone releases of 2026 on hand, but it's the Pixel 11 Pro XL that houses my SIM card. I obviously like Google's vision of Android, but the 11 Pro XL excels in a lot of other areas, so I'm outlining five reasons why the phone is now my daily driver.

There's a lot to like with the software

I'm not a big fan of AI in general, and Google's insistence of shoving AI-assisted features into every nook and cranny of its software is a bit tedious. That said, Proactive Intelligence does a good job providing contextual information, and Rambler in particular has made me use voice dictation again — I like just how easy it is to take notes. There's no doubting that the Pixel 11 Pro XL has the best on-device AI suite of any phone.

Even if you don't plan on using any of these AI features, there's a lot to like with the software. The interface is clean and modern, and you get extensive customizability when it comes to styling it to your tastes. I get that not everyone's a fan of the Material you aesthetic, but I like the vibrancy of the UI, and it's great to see Google constantly roll out new features.

The hardware is actually good

It's annoying that Google's Tensor efforts have focused so heavily on the NPU that it ignores baseline performance, but the Tensor G6 is better than previous models. It still isn't quite as fast as the latest-gen Qualcomm and MediaTek rivals, but it is better in day-to-day multitasking, and there is a noticeable difference in the overall fluidity. The G6 still struggles with visually-demanding games, but in all other scenarios, it is a pretty reliable platform.

The 6.8-inch OLED panel, on the other hand, is one of the best around. It has great colors and gets brighter than most phones I used in 2026, and it held up astonishingly well in India's punishing heat. The 11 Pro XL doesn't have high PWM dimming — unlike Chinese phones — so if you're sensitive to it, you should get the Find X9 Pro or Vivo X300 Pro.

Cameras are better than I thought

While earlier Pixels had the best cameras, that hasn't been the case for a while now. Thankfully, the Pixel 11 Pro XL makes amends in this area, and the new sensors combined with camera tuning tweaks deliver much better photos and videos.

Image quality in general is better than last year, and while the 11 Pro XL may not be as good as the Find X9 Pro or Vivo X300 Pro, it stands above the S26 Ultra and iPhone 17 Pro. I like Camera Looks a lot as it gives me plenty of flexibility in tailoring my photos.

Magic Capture in particular is a standout addition; it does a great job producing clean photos of fast-moving subjects, and I used it extensively in the last two weeks. While it isn't new, Add Me is a feature that gets a lot of usage.

Qi 2 continues to be a big deal

I only started using Qi 2 in earnest last year, and a lot of that had to do with the Pixel 10 Pro XL. I don't use cases in general, so to have Qi 2 magnets integrated into a phone body made using the tech all the more easy, and it's great to see Google continue this in the Pixel 11 Pro XL.

While 25W charging isn't a lot — particularly when there are phones that charge at 80W — the convenience is hard to counter. There are so many sleek Qi 2 power banks these days that I always have one on hand to use with the 11 Pro XL when I'm outdoors.

The battery life in general is good enough that I don't need to charge the phone before the end of the day, but if I'm shooting outdoors and need to top up the battery, this comes in handy. Also, it's just easier to plonk the 11 Pro XL on a Qi 2 charger on my desk (like the Nomos 245W) than plugging in a cable.

It's great to hold and use

I like Google's hardware design, and the Pixel 11 Pro XL looks clean and elegant. The new camera bar is modern, and it doesn't jut out too much from the body. Best of all, there's no wobble when using the 11 Pro XL on a table (take note, Samsung).

But in classic Google fashion, the brand doesn't have all colors in all storage sizes (outside the U.S., at least), so I got the 512GB variant in Obsidian. I much prefer the look of the Canyon model, and if you're considering getting the 11 Pro XL, that is the color to buy.

The phone has similar dimensions to its predecessor, but it is a little lighter, and the tweaks to the design make it easier to hold and use. Day-to-day durability is excellent; the phone took six tumbles — two onto a tiled surface — and came away unscathed.

I didn't use the Pixel 10 Pro XL as much as previous Pixels, and that's because other brands made bigger strides this year. Chinese brands have much better cameras — the Find X9 Pro, X9 Ultra, Vivo X300 Pro, and X300 Ultra are on another level — but the software wasn't anywhere as good to use as a Pixel. That isn't the case in 2026; ColorOS and OriginOS have gotten a visual makeover, and they combine a modern UI with extensive customizability and fluidity; they no longer feel like second-best software.

That's one of the reasons the Find X9 Pro and X9 Ultra became my most-used devices of 2026. Having said that, the Pixel 11 Pro XL is still better when it comes to the software, and I like that the cameras are no longer the limiting factor. I'm not saying that the phone is without issues; the battery doesn't last two days, and you don't get anywhere as much power as Chinese phones that use Qualcomm and MediaTek silicon. In spite of all that, the Pixel 11 Pro XL is a great choice if you value clean software and cameras that are fun to use.

I've seen a lot of Google Pixel 11 deals since the phones were first unveiled last month, but once again, Mint Mobile has surprised me with one of the best offers yet. For a limited time, the T-Mobile-owned carrier is slashing $425 off the powerful Google Pixel 11 Pro XL, and all you need to do is bundle the device with one year of wireless.

Yes, that seems like a major eligibility requirement, but considering that all of Mint Mobile's annual plans have been discounted to just $180 (or $15 per month), it's actually extremely cost-effective.

Let me put it this way. Bundle the phone with one year of the carrier's popular unlimited plan, and it'll only cost you $1,054 ($88 per month using affirm). That's a whopping $200 cheaper than the Pixel 11 Pro XL's current price at Amazon, and it comes with a full 12 months of one of our favorite unlimited plans around. It's not for everyone, but if you want a deal that gets you a powerful Android phone and a great new wireless plan, this Mint Mobile promotion is one of the most impressive offers on the web today.

✅ Recommended if: you want a powerful Android phone and some great no-frills wireless for cheap; you hate paying your phone bill and wouldn't mind purchasing a year of coverage in advance.

❌ Skip this deal if: you don't want to commit to a full year of one wireless plan in advance; you want a phone plan with premium perks; you prefer the simplicity of buying phones unlocked; you're looking for a trade-in opportunity.

If you don't need all of the fancy extras and premium perks offered by Big Three carriers, Mint Mobile's Unlimited plan is a fantastic choice. You get unlimited talk, text, and data on T-Mobile's vast 5G network, plus a free mobile hotspot and free calls to Mexico, Canada, and the UK. That's it. Just simple and effective wireless that won't break the bank.

The premium Pixel 11 Pro XL, however, is anything but simple. This is Google's answer to Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra, boasting a gorgeous 6.8-inch AMOLED display, a powerful Tensor G6 chipset, and 12GB of RAM straight out of the box. You also get some upgraded camera tech, faster charging speeds, and the new HiLight LED notification feature around the camera bar.

The Pixel 11 Pro XL may not be a dramatic upgrade from its predecessor, but it's still one of the best phones that Google has ever produced. Here is a great way to get the 2026 flagship at a solid discount (plus a year of great wireless coverage to boot).

Google Pixel 11 vs. Motorola Edge 2026: Design

Google's phones have a distinct visual identity, and I like that the Pixel 11 doesn't deviate too much from its predecessor. Google did a good job with the color choices this year; I got the Hibiscus model, and it's just fun to hold and use.

The Edge 2026 has an immediately-recognizable design as well, but it doesn't quite feel as good to hold. A lot of that is down to the plastic chassis, but the upside is that you have IP68 and IP69K dust and water resistance as well as MIL-STD-810H durability. Google provides IP68 as standard, but Motorola has the edge in this area. Another factor to consider is the weight, and the Edge 2026 is 36g lighter than the Pixel 11.

Google Pixel 11 vs. Motorola Edge 2026: Hardware and cameras

The Pixel 11 is nearly identical to its predecessor, but the Tensor G6 platform gets a lot right, and it is noticeably faster in daily use. It still isn't good at gaming, but you'll only notice this while playing visually-demanding games. Otherwise, it is reliable.

Motorola went with MediaTek's Dimensity 7450 in the Edge 2026, and it is clearly showing its age. It has ancient Cortex A78 and A55 cores, and they're not anywhere as efficient as the newer Arm cores that you get in most other phones in this category. The result is that even though the Edge 2026 has a slightly bigger 5,000mAh battery, the Pixel 11 lasts longer in regular use.

While Motorola has the edge with 68W charging, Google's decision to put Qi 2 magnets in the Pixel 11 gives it a clear advantage in my book. It's just easy to be able to charge the device using any Qi 2 charger without needing an additional case.

Also, it's annoying that the Edge 2026 has just 128GB of storage, and there's no 256GB model either — Motorola just sells one model in the U.S. The Pixel 11 comes with 256GB of storage as standard, and there is a 512GB model if you need additional storage.

The Edge 2026 has a trio of cameras, and the dedicated tele lens is good in its own right. That said, I prefer the cameras on the Pixel 11; while the physical sensors are unchanged, Google made plenty of tweaks to the tuning, and features like Camera Looks give you a greater customizability over how your photos look. There's also the fact that the Pixel 11 takes better photos with its trio of cameras, and it holds up a lot better in low-light situations.

Google Pixel 11 vs. Motorola Edge 2026: Software

The Pixel 11 debuted with Android 17, and it comes with a clean interface with a lot of unique features you don't get on other phones. While I don't use most of the AI-assisted features that Google has to offer, things like Rambler in Gboard make a big difference.

The Edge 2026, meanwhile, launched with Android 16, and with Motorola only providing two Android OS updates, it will only go up to Android 18. By contrast, the Pixel 11 will get the Android 14 update (if Google continues its numbering scheme) seven years down the line.

Motorola's software is clean and uncluttered, but it's clear that the brand needs to do more to stand out. One thing that needs to change is software updates; it just isn't enough for a $600 phone to get two Android OS updates in 2026.

Google Pixel 11 vs. Motorola Edge 2026: Which should you buy?

The Pixel 11 is priced at $899 in the U.S., which is $300 more than the Motorola Edge 2026. While that is costlier, you are getting better features in just about every area: the Pixel 11 is faster, has higher memory and storage, lasts longer, takes much better photos, and gets five additional years of software updates, which is a huge deal.

Also, Google is known to heavily discount phones a few months after launch, so if you like the look of the Pixel 11, just wait a bit until the holiday sales start (it isn't a long wait), and you won't need to pay quite as much to get your hands on the phone.

If you're on a budget and need a mid-ranger, I'd suggest looking at the Pixel 10a instead of the Edge 2026. You don't get a tele lens, but outside of that, it is a better choice than the Edge 2026, and it costs less.

The Pixel 11 brings several upgrades over the Pixel 9, but in a strange turn of events, it also brings quite a few downgrades. One thing is for sure, though: the latest Google Tensor G6 chipset is the clear winner in terms of performance and raw power.

Most importantly, if you were to step into the store to buy both phones right now, the Pixel 9 would only cost you about $549, whereas the Pixel 11 starts at $899. The price gap is significant, leading us to question which phone is better. Two generations later, and it's still unclear to Pixel 9 owners whether the Pixel 11 is worth upgrading to. I'm here to unearth the answer to this question.

Google Pixel 11 vs. Pixel 9: By the numbers

Google Pixel 11 vs. Pixel 9: Cold hard specs

Looks-wise, the Google Pixel 11 and Pixel 9 are very similar, but the former's brighter colorways and all-glass camera bar stand out distinctly. Apart from that, both Google Pixel phones are the same size, each with a 6.3-inch HDR10+ OLED display. Neither Pixel has an LTPO panel, so the variable refresh rate can't drop below 60Hz.

Disappointingly, the Pixel 11 misses out on HiLight, a standout feature of the Pixel 11 Pro and Pro XL. It also comes with Wi-Fi 6E instead of Wi-Fi 7, which is found on the Pixel 9. Google did upgrade to Bluetooth 6 on the Pixel 11, thankfully, so the Pixel 9's Bluetooth 5.3 is quite outdated by comparison.

Battery and charging are significantly better on the Pixel 11, jumping from the Pixel 9's 4,700mAh cell, 27W wired charging, and 15W wireless charging speeds to a 4,985mAh battery, 30W wired charging, and 25W wireless charging. Pixelsnap (or magnetic Qi2) is one of the best features of the Pixel 11, something the Pixel 9 lacks entirely.

Performance is a vital consideration, and the Google Pixel 11's Tensor G6 chipset crushes the Pixel 9's much older, slower Tensor G4 chip. The G6 offers 20% better power efficiency, 25% faster browsing, and 15% faster app loading compared to the Tensor G5.

Let's also not forget that all this will cost you a lot more: the Pixel 11 starts at $899 for 12GB/256GB, whereas the Pixel 9 retails for about $440 for the 12GB/128GB variant and $545 for the 12GB/256GB option.

Google Pixel 11 vs. Pixel 9: Software and AI

It is well known that, eventually, software and AI features from new Pixel phones trickle down to older models. However, this also depends on whether the phone's chipset supports those features.

Given the wide gap in raw power between the Tensor G4 and Tensor G6 chips, many of the Pixel 11's best features may not be available on the Pixel 9. Gemini's features rely on the G6's advanced architecture, so features like Rambler voice-to-text, Magic Capture, Sign Language-to-text translation, and automation via Gemini Intelligence are likely to remain exclusive to the Pixel 11. Some might come to the Pixel 10 eventually, but it is highly unlikely that the Pixel 9 will also get those features.

Both Pixels run Android 17 and are guaranteed seven years of OS and security updates. The Pixel 9 started out with Android 14, so naturally, it has fewer updates to go compared to the Pixel 11.

Google Pixel 11 vs. Pixel 9: Cameras

The Pixel 11 has a triple-camera setup, with all-new lenses compared to the Pixel 9's dual-camera setup. Pixel 11 users enjoy a 48MP primary camera, a 13MP ultra-wide camera, and a 5x telephoto sensor, with up to 30x zoom. New camera features on the device include Magic Capture, Camera Looks, Camera Coach, and Creator Suite.

Next to that, the Pixel 9's 50MP wide and 48MP ultra-wide cameras and glaring lack of any telephoto lens look pointedly plain. Although a few Pixel 10 camera features, like Camera Coach, made their way to the Pixel 9, they are a far cry from the photography and videography tools and capabilities of the Pixel 11.

Google Pixel 11 vs. Pixel 9: So should you upgrade?

The Pixel 11 offers Pixelsnap, vastly improved performance, better cameras, more base storage, better AI features, superior battery and charging specs, and solid triple cameras.

The Pixel 9, on the other hand, still has many years of software updates, and it performs well enough, with solid photography and ingress protection. It is slow by comparison and has poorer battery life and charging performance.

Whether you are a Google Pixel 9 owner or considering saving money by buying an older phone, the Pixel 11 is clearly a much better deal overall. You'll get Android 17 and the same seven-year update promise. The extra money you spend will get you a vastly more efficient processor, newer hardware, and more base storage.

If you are intent on staying in the $500 range, I suggest waiting for the Pixel 10 Pro to go on sale instead of purchasing the Pixel 9.

The preorder period may be long gone, but the Google Pixel 11 deals are just as good as they've ever been. Just in time for Labor Day weekend, T-Mobile will give you the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL for FREE when you add a line with the Experience Beyond plan, no trade-in required!

As far as simplicity is concerned, this is one of the best Pixel 11 Pro XL deals on the web, totally crushing the latest offers from Verizon and AT&T. Even if you don't want to sign up for T-Mobile's Experience Beyond plan (which is admittedly pretty pricey), the carrier is guaranteeing a $900 discount with all of its mainline unlimited plans, while the Experience More plan will still land you $1,100 off your smartphone purchase.

• See the full list of deals at T-Mobile today

Destined to rank among the best Android phones released in 2026, the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL takes the excellent foundation of its predecessor and adds a new camera system, a thinner and lighter build, and the upgraded Tensor G6 chipset. The 2026 phone also boasts a brighter display with faster charging speeds, plus you get to enjoy the new HiLight LED array. This light feature is attached to the camera bar and will glow different colors when you receive a notification or activate the phone's AI assistant.

The Google Pixel 11 Pro XL also comes equipped with all of the features you'd expect from a Pixel phone in 2026, including versatile cameras, a ton of handy software features, and seven years of guaranteed OS and security updates.

Naturally, no T-Mobile deal is complete without some fine print attached, and this Pixel 11 Pro XL offer is no exception. Like I mentioned above, you'll have to sign up for the Experience Beyond plan to receive the savings, and this plan generally starts around $100 per month for a single line. Fortunately, you can drop that price down considerably by using AutoPay and adding multiple lines.

The Experience Beyond plan also comes with a bunch of enticing perks to make up for its steep price tag. You get unlimited talk, text, and premium data on T-Mobile's legendary mobile network, plus an unlimited hotspot, international coverage in over 215 countries worldwide, and free subscriptions to both Netflix and Hulu. You even get a five-year price guarantee and access to all the same great upgrade deals as new customers.

This deal isn't for everyone, but if you've been looking for a new phone plan anyway, now's your chance to score some premium T-Mobile coverage AND a powerful Android phone all at once.

Google's newest smartphones have been out for less than a month, but that hasn't stopped retailers like Verizon from offering some pretty exceptional Pixel 11 Pro XL deals. Add a line with the Unlimited Ultimate plan, for example, and the carrier will slash a whopping $1,119.99 off the price of the phone.

That discount drops the Pixel 11 Pro XL down to only $5 per month for 36 months, no trade-in required! Of course, Unlimited Ultimate is also Verizon's most expensive data plan, so is this deal actually worth the price of entry? Let's break down all of the pros and cons to find out if this Verizon deal is right for you.

Buy the Pixel 11 Pro XL for 5 bucks per month during Verizon's Labor Day sale

• See my guide to the best Google Pixel 11 deals of the month

✅ Recommended if: you want to upgrade to one of the best unlimited plans in the business, regardless of cost; you're looking for a good way to get a powerful Pixel phone and an outstanding wireless plan in one fell swoop.

❌ Skip this deal if: you want to save money on your phone bill; you prefer the simplicity of buying unlocked phones; you're looking for a trade-in opportunity.

For starters, it's important to note that Verizon's Unlimited Ultimate plan generally starts around $105/month for a single line, although you can reduce that price significantly by adding multiple lines and taking advantage of promotional pricing. Add four lines with AutoPay and paper-free billing, for instance, and you can enjoy the benefits of the Unlimited Ultimate plan for as little as $57.60/month for each line.

If you can afford it, the Unlimited Ultimate plan does offer a lot of great features that make up for the steep price tag. You get unlimited talk, text, and 5G Ultra Wideband data, in addition to an unlimited mobile hotspot, 4K video streaming, and a ton of international benefits when you travel.

What about the phone?

Lightweight and thinner than ever, the Pixel 11 Pro XL is one of the best phones that Google has ever created, with a powerful Tensor G6 chipset, 12GB of RAM as standard, and a gorgeous 6.8-inch AMOLED display. You also get some upgraded camera tech, seven years of guaranteed software support, and a larger battery than previous generations, making the Pixel 11 Pro XL an absolute beast of Android performance.

Furthermore — and this is mostly a cosmetic upgrade — the Pixel 11 Pro XL features the new HiLight LED light array that borders the phone's camera bar. This little light indicator silently glows when you get a notification or use the phone's AI features, plus it can be customized to match your style.

Sure, it wasn't the massive upgrade that we were hoping for when comparing the phone to last year's model, but if you can get a good deal, the Pixel 11 Pro XL is a no-brainer for any Android enthusiast in 2026.

My take on Verizon's Labor Day deal

In conclusion, I'd really only take advantage of this deal if you can afford the wireless. This Verizon promotion makes the most sense if you've already been eyeing the Unlimited Ultimate plan and want to snag a great phone at the same time. And indeed, Unlimited Ultimate is awesome if you can afford it.

For everyone else, you'd be better off looking for a straight discount or trade-in opportunity. Some carriers (like T-Mobile) will offer some major savings if you add a line and send in an old or broken phone when purchasing the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL. Otherwise, you'll need to wait until Black Friday season kicks off if you want a good discount on the latest Pixel phones.

What you need to know

• For September's Android Drop, Google is introducing "Motion Assist," a feature to help users suffering from motion sickness while using their phone in a vehicle.
• On the Accessibility front, Gemini Live can help users find items or read fine print with "Guided Vision," delivering audio descriptions to guide users.
• Google states Motion Assist will rollout on Android 17 devices, while Guided Vision prepares a debut on Android 9 and newer.

It's September, and right on time is Google with the latest Android Drop. This month, the company is focusing on the accessibility and comfort of Android with two major updates.

Google's press release details a laundry list of new features for September; however, we're focusing on two items: Motion Sickness and Guided Vision. If you've ever tried using your phone while riding shotgun in a car, you might've put it down. Motion Sickness could affect anyone, but Google is rolling out "Motion Assist" this month to help. According to Google, Motion Assist "adds a subtle bubble overlay to your screen that moves with the vehicle."

The post states these bubbles will bridge the gap between "what your eyes see and the movement of your ride." Users can start it via the Quick Settings tile, or they can set it to automatically turn on when you're in a moving vehicle. These moving bubbles will appear on the sides of your phone to help reduce motion sickness. The automatic option states Motion Assist will activate if it detects the user in a car, bus, or train.

What's more, users will find a few customization options to make Motion Assist theirs.

A point to Accessibility

Google states Motion Assist will roll out on phones running Android 17.

The second major update is Guided Vision. The post states this feature relies on Gemini Live, meaning users will have to share their camera with the AI. After sharing, Gemini Live will provide audio descriptions of what's in front of you. Google says the AI can help with "reading fine print on a food label, ordering from a menu in a low-lit restaurant, or locating household objects." In one example, Gemini Live guides a user to a seasoning they're looking for on a shelf.

If the subject leaves your frame, Gemini Live will guide you back so it can help you appropriately.

Guided Vision is rolling out "soon" to phones running Android 9 or newer where Gemini is available. Once it arrives, users can add Guided Vision to their Accessibility shortcuts or launch it via the TalkBack menu.

Android Central's Take

I will always prefer updates like this over some "new thing" for AI. While one of these features relies on Google's AI, this is the direction I like seeing it go. A direction where it's incredibly helpful to people who may have trouble seeing or what have you. Tech should make life easier. We've got enough to worry about as it is.

What you need to know

• Google Pixel 11 Pro users on Reddit have started voicing problems with the device's recording capabilities when Video Boost is active.
• A report states statis bursts every "five seconds" emerge in recordings when this enhancement feature is active, completely ruining the end-product.
• A Google support team member has responded, curious to learn more; however, users have discovered an at-home fix for this problem.

It's the end of August, and we're all unpacking our Pixel 11 phones, but some users say there's already an issue. Reports highlight a video enhancement feature that's working in reverse.

Over the past week, reports on the Pixel Phones subreddit have emerged, highlighting a problem with Video Boost on the Pixel 11 Pro (via 9to5Google). The original poster (OP) said that after recording, they noticed "static bursts" in the audio "every five seconds." The report specifies that this has only occurred with videos recorded with Video Boost enabled.

The OP followed up with a better example, showing how egregious these static bursts are every few seconds. Users entered the thread. Some say they've encountered the same problem when Video Boost is active. Another questioned the OP, wondering about their video quality. The user was recording in FHD at 6fps, not 4K. However, another recording at 4K displayed signs of these disruptive static bursts.

Users lamented the problem, stating it's disheartening to have such a problem on top of the phone's price. The OP considered returning their device, but they stuck with it and reportedly found a fix. They say, "I went in and cleared the cache on the camera app and turned off zoom audio. No static on the videos tonight." One user found no issues at 30fps, but toggling 60fps on and off seemed to help.

Interestingly, Google is aware of the problem—or at least, the issues users have voiced. A member of the Google product support team for Pixels responded, inquiring for more information.

Video Boost is designed to help users record better videos. It works by submitting your recording to Google's Cloud services to "enhance it" before returning to your phone. When Google first introduced this for the Pixel 8 Pro, it seemed like a straightforward process. However, there appears to be some disconnect between the Pixel 11 Pro and Video Boost's original purpose. With Google chiming in, hopefully it'll look into a more permanent solution that doesn't involve extra steps from users.

These early issues are frustrating, as they're souring an otherwise well-received Pixel 11 launch. While Google has integrated some useful hardware upgrades, the company's also raised the bar significantly for Pixel AI. Of course, these are optional tools, so the final judgement is up to the end-user.

Google finally upgraded the base storage with the Pixel 11 series, among other notable upgrades and modifications. One thing remains constant, though, and that's the number of models launched. There's the basic Pixel 11, the more advanced but petite Pixel 11 Pro, and the larger-than-life Pixel 11 Pro XL.

Upgrades like increased internal memory, a faster processor, and the fancy HiLight in its RGB glory come at a cost; the Pixel 11 series starts at $100 more than the Pixel 10 series. The spike in RAM prices may also be to blame, but it doesn't matter who the culprit is. You're here to decide which of the three Pixel 11 models deserves your money the most.

So, how do you decide which Google Pixel 11 model you should buy? Each phone has something to offer and caters to a particular kind of user. Let's compare all three devices and come to a conclusion.

At a glance

The base Pixel 11

The baby Pixel 11 is the entry point to Google's 2026 flagship series. Following the across-the-board price increases, it sells for $899 with 256GB of storage and $1,019 for the 512GB variant. Both memory options come with 12GB of RAM. Unlike the Pixel 11 Pro and Pro XL, the Pixel 11 has different colorways.

The Pixel 11 supports faster 25W wireless charging than the Pixel 10. Other changes include the new Tensor G6 chipset, all the latest Gemini features, and some camera upgrades, though you still get the lowest-resolution cameras in the Pixel 11 family and no HiLight RGB light. Notably, the Pixel 11 has a slightly larger 4,985mAh battery compared to the Pixel 11 Pro's 4,850mAh.

For the price that you pay, the year-over-year upgrades aren't significant enough, making it really hard to recommend the base Pixel 11. It just doesn't make sense. You're better off purchasing the last-gen Pixel 10 at a much lower price, or adding $200 to score the Pixel 11 Pro.

The new and improved Pixel 11 Pro

The Pixel 11 Pro retails at $1,099 for the 12GB/256GB variant. Meanwhile, the 512GB and 1TB variants bump the RAM to 16GB, priced at $1,219 and $1,449, respectively. The 11 Pro shares the same charging specs as the base Pixel 11, but for some reason it has a smaller battery than the Pixel 10 Pro and the Pixel 11.

The HiLight adds a glowing dot to your Pixel 11 Pro, so you can get more info about your notifications without picking up your phone. It has the same Tensor G6 chipset and advanced Gemini features as the rest of the Pixel 11 family.

The Pixel 11 Pro and Pro XL are nearly identical in every way except for size, battery capacity, and charging speeds. This is a rare instance where you truly get two different size options for the exact same flagship phone, including identical colorways. You get the same cameras on both phones, which is a huge bonus if you want a small phone that doesn't compromise on camera quality.

Choosing between the Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL comes down to size preference, then. If you're not keen on carrying a 6.8-inch device that is an ounce heavier than the petite Pro model, there's no need to upgrade to the larger, more expensive Pro XL. You might get a smaller battery, but the smaller display should consume less power than the Pixel 11 Pro XL, which should average out the uptime to some extent. Overall, this is the ideal Pixel 11 model for most people, as it delivers the most value for money.

The specs-maxxing Pixel 11 Pro XL

Google stuffed the Pixel 11 Pro XL with features like a turkey stuffed with fillings on Thanksgiving, making it the most feature-rich model in the Pixel 11 series. Like the rest, the Pro XL starts at $100 more. The base memory variant costs $1,299 for 256GB of storage and a lower 12GB of RAM than the last-gen Pixel 10 Pro XL. The other two variants come with 16GB of RAM and are priced at $1,419 for 512GB and $1,649 for 1TB of storage.

The Pixel 11 Pro XL is equipped with all the latest features you would expect: the advanced Tensor G6 chipset with the Titan M3 security chip, Gemini's latest capabilities such as Rambler and Magic Capture, and the HiLight notification LED. The cameras have also been upgraded, elevating what was already a brilliant photography and videography experience.

Google pulled all the stops with this one, giving it the largest battery and fastest charging speed of the Pixel 11 trio. The big screen does make this the heaviest Pixel 11, though, and it has a smaller battery compared to the older Pixel 10 Pro XL. If you want the biggest, most powerful Pixel 11, this is the model to get.

What about the Pixel 11 Pro?

The Pixel 11 Pro Fold is technically part of the Pixel 11 family, but it sort of exists in its own sphere. However, if you're interested in foldables and curious about the Pixel 11 Pro Fold, we've got you covered in a separate article that discusses whether you should buy one. Just be prepared to pay a pretty penny if you do!

Google’s Pixel smartphones have never been the strongest in terms of raw power or customization, but they represent something of a consumer-friendly, accessible option for those who want an easy Android experience. The Pixel 11 is the latest representation of Google’s software and hardware coming together to showcase how far Android has come and how useful AI can be, even if we love to hate it.

I’ve been using the Pixel 11 for a few weeks now, and it feels like Google is navigating an interesting intersection between AI and social media, one that companies like Samsung are also starting to hone in on. The result is a phone that feels fresh, fun, and functional while remaining one of the best flagship options for your wallet.

It’s the small things

At first glance, the Pixel 11 looks and feels as small and pocketable as the Pixel 10. Unfortunately, the Pixel 11 is still quite thick at 8.6mm, making it chonkier than even the Galaxy S26 Ultra. It’s also pretty hefty, weighing closer to the S26 Ultra than the base S26.

On the plus side, Google made some small but welcome changes to both the design and some of the internals, which I think sort of make up for its hefty design.

For example, the camera housing doesn’t protrude nearly as much as the Pixel 10, so it lies flatter on a table than its predecessor, despite having roughly the same camera sensors. The battery is also slightly larger, although Google probably should have opted for denser silicon-carbon batteries, which likely could have helped shave off some thickness. Still, battery life hasn’t been a problem for me, and I generally get a full day of use before needing to plug in.

Fortunately, charging got a bit of a boost. The Pixel 11 still features 30W wired charging, which isn’t the fastest on the block, and I definitely find myself waiting longer than I’d like for it to charge.

Extreme Charging can help with this, although only somewhat. The hidden feature pauses apps in the background to keep the phone cooler for longer and allows for higher sustained charging speeds. Thus, I did see a 10% boost after 30 minutes of charging, bringing the phone from 0 to 50%.

Wireless charging is also much better, with seemingly stronger Qi2 magnets and faster 25W speeds, making it nearly as useful as wired charging.

The Pixel 11 gets social

AI has been Google’s main focus with the Pixel lineup, but social media is also becoming more important, as seen in the latest Android 17 features like the built-in Creator Suite and Screen Reactions. In fact, two of my favorite new Pixel 11 features are at opposite ends of social media, with one that aims to give me the perfect photos to post while another prompts me to step back from scrolling.

Magic Capture is a new built-in Camera feature that sits just to the left of Photo mode. With it, you tap the shutter button and start recording a video, while AI works in the background to automatically find the best moments and save images. This essentially automates the manual still-capture feature already available in Video mode, letting you focus on capturing the moment.

I used the feature at a party, and despite the challenging lighting, Magic Capture highlighted some great social media-worthy moments of my friends. I was also able to capture some cute images of harbor seals swimming in a waterway.

On the other hand, I know that Instagram is my biggest weakness and the main source of my procrastination. That’s why I actually appreciate what Pause Point is doing. This Digital Wellbeing feature activates when I open apps I find distracting, giving me a moment to breathe and reflect on whether I really need to open that app right now.

I enabled it specifically for Instagram, so that each time I try to open the app, it cycles through several options, prompting me to take a moment to breathe, think about what really matters to me, set a timer for the app, state how I feel while opening the app, or try another less distracting app instead.

When it’s done, I can continue to the app, but I often find myself not opening Instagram, mostly because of the friction of having to complete a task first. It’s surprisingly effective.

There’s AI too

You can find Gemini everywhere on the Pixel 11 if that’s what you want, and it actually feels more helpful than anything. When I wake up, Daily Brief pulls from my connected accounts and apps like Calendar and Gmail, keeping me abreast of upcoming events and things I need to remember.

Gemini Intelligence also makes it easy to do things like order Uber Eats just by using my voice, and it helps when I least expect it. For example, a friend of mine texted me to ask if I was busy this weekend. Before I could respond, Gemini prompted me to check my calendar, which revealed I was planning to go to a festival.

In another message, a friend asked what my team name is for an upcoming 5K I'm planning to run. Gemini suggested a previous team name I used during my last 5K, which just so happens to be the name I'm using for this new run.

It all happened without leaving Google Messages, which is the kind of frictionless AI interaction that I can appreciate.

Rambler is also surprisingly useful, and it picks up the nuances of speech quite well, adding the appropriate punctuation and even quotation marks when it detects that I'm quoting something. It also separates my text into paragraphs at the right moments, and I haven't had to correct it once.

This is all powered by the Tensor G6, which prioritizes AI performance over anything else. Day-to-day use is fine, although don’t expect the Pixel 11 to be a gaming powerhouse. It also doesn’t sport the same vapor chamber as the Pixel 11 Pro, so it does get quite warm when gaming.

What about the cameras?

The Pixel 11 has the same camera layout as its predecessor, so there’s not much difference here. Compared to the Pixel 10, images from the Pixel 11 are largely the same but tend to lean toward the warm side, resulting in somewhat more vibrant images.

This is also the case when compared to the Pixel 11 Pro, which takes cooler photos. However, the Pro also benefits from slightly better imaging capabilities, and images at any zoom level tend to have more detail than on the Pixel 11.

Should you buy the Pixel 11?

The Pixel 11 costs $100 more than its predecessor, and while $899 isn’t cheap, you’re now getting double the base storage, faster charging, and the latest Tensor chip. Sure, it misses out on things like HiLight, which would have been really great to have, and there are still no Pro Camera features. However, you get most of the AI features, the same base 12GB of RAM as the Pixel 11 Pro, and the same charging specs, but for much less.

If you can go without those Pro features, the Pixel 11 feels like the one to buy.

Last year's Pixel 10 Pro Fold debuted a few surprising firsts for a foldable. It was the first foldable with IP68 water and dust resistance, and the first with Qi2 magnets inside. And while those were certainly cool, the thick and heavy build was a bit off-putting, and the cameras were more than a little disappointing.

This year, Google is slimming everything down, dropping the weight, and upgrading plenty more. While the cameras aren't quite as good as those on the non-folding Pixel 11 Pro models, the rest of the experience is solid and offers a more compelling package than those phones, with better multitasking.

The price increase isn't as offensive as the rest of the Pixel 11 Pro series. While it's $100 more than the Pixel 10 Pro Fold's launch price, it retains 16GB of RAM, the same storage capacity, and offers better overall specs — not just a better processor. That's a solid upgrade, but increased competition in the space makes this a harder decision than ever.

Pixel favorites you'll love

The best part of choosing the foldable Pixel 11 is that you don't have to miss out on any of the best Pixel 11 features. It's got Pixel Satellite SOS, Pixel VPN, and the Pixelsnap Qi2/MagSafe magnets built in, all of which are some of the best reasons to get a Pixel.

It also comes with a handful of really excellent Pixel Fold-exclusive features, such as additional options in the camera viewfinder. If you've got kids, you're going to love Made You Look, a feature that uses the front display (while the phone is unfolded) to show silly animations, so you can get a perfect picture of your kids grinning, not sulking.

The Pixel 11 Pro Fold is also the best at multitasking in the Pixel family (though it's not as good as the Motorola Razr Fold). That's not just because of the large inner display, which feels like a small tablet, but also because of features like the pinnable taskbar, 90:10 split, and the new dock, which lets you easily manage floating app windows as if it were a laptop.

And all my favorite new Pixel 11 features are here too, including Live Translate for Video, Rambler (the Gboard voice-to-text upgrade everyone is raving about), Creator Suite, and Magic Capture (which I detail below).

Some genuinely good upgrades this year

Google also improved quite a few things between the Pixel 10 Pro Fold and the 11. Both displays are now LTPO OLEDs with the same 3600 nit brightness levels as the other Pixel 11 Pro models. That's a big step up from last year, when the Pixel 10 Pro Fold used the base Pixel 10's dimmer LTPS display.

I genuinely love the size and aspect ratio of the Pixel 11 Pro Fold when compared to other tall book-style foldables, but the sides are too flat for their own good. This makes it harder to open than it should be; something you don't want on a folding phone!

The phone is nearly 1mm thinner this year, but the back half is thinner than the front. It looks really weird if you compare them, but a thin case (from a brand like Thinborne or Pitaka) mostly fixes the issue.

At the least, Tensor G6 delivers some truly solid new AI features. My favorite new feature (that's Pixel 11-exclusive) is Magic Capture, a camera mode that automatically saves photos while recording video.

It's a perfect use of AI to capture wonderful moments you might otherwise miss, and it means you get great photos and video every time you use it.

For this review, I compared the cameras on the Pixel 11 Pro Fold with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8, Motorola Razr Fold, and Honor Magic V6. I found the main camera was fine enough, but dynamic range isn't the best, and the lovely texture detail from the Pixel 11 Pro/XL's cameras isn't here, so fine detail is softer than I'd like.

Likewise, the improvements to the portrait mode on the Pixel 11 Pro/XL don't appear to be present on this phone, as the cutouts around the subject are quite messy, similar to the Pixel 9 and 10 series.

The ultrawide camera is also decent but took an easy third place among the four foldables I tested. Details are soft and edge warping is pretty bad, but it has nice exposure that verges slightly on the darker side.

Telephoto camera processing is a little more raw than the competition, and I can see people liking this a lot. It creates a more "lens-like" appearance at the expense of detail, but that more natural look is a good one. Zoom maxes out at 30x while Honor and Razr go much further, but you may not care much.

Front-facing camera resolution is excellent, but dynamic range can be an issue. Like the main camera, the portrait mode is messier than the non-folding Pixel 11 Pro models, leaving annoying artifacts around the edges of subjects.

But many of the same old problems

Unfortunately, while there are a ton of improvements this year, many of the same old Pixel problems still exist on this phone. Tensor G6 might be 15% faster than G5, for instance, but it's still around 30% slower than rivals. That gap widens even further to around 50% slower in gaming, which is further worsened by the lack of support for newer Vulkan features, meaning several games will disable advanced graphics settings on this phone.

The PWM dimming rate on this phone is still abysmal compared to any non-Samsung foldable (meaning Motorola, Honor, Xiaomi, Vivo, etc.), making it impossible to use for anyone who is flicker-sensitive. Charging speed is also quite slow. Even the new Extreme Charging feature doesn't save it. And the only way you're getting Google's promised "30+ hour battery life" is if you barely use it during that time.

Lastly, I've found that HiLight and Gemini Proactive Assistance — two of the Hallmark Pixel 11 features — aren't very useful for me. I rarely saw Proactive Assistance give me any help, and HiLight feels mostly like a waste of space on the back since you can't customize it at all. The LED just illuminates for calls and texts, or when talking to Gemini. Definitely a disappointment.

The Pixel 11 Pro Fold is definitely a good phone, but in a year with rising prices, increased competition, and eroded trust after plenty of bad software updates, it's tough to recommend unless you really love a specific feature like Magic Capture or the new Creator Studio tools.

Google Pixel 11 Pro vs. Pixel 9 Pro: Design and display

It wasn't until I dug out the Pixel 9 Pro that I realized just how little has changed with Google's phones in the last two years. The Pixel 9 Pro has nearly identical dimensions to the Pixel 11 Pro, and while the latter is 5g heavier, that isn't immediately noticeable.

In fact, other than the new design around the camera bar, there isn't an easy way to distinguish both phones — they're that similar. This is a good thing, as it solidifies Google's visual identity and ensures models are consistent between generations.

To give you a little bit of contrast, there aren't any design similarities between last year's Find X8 Ultra and the 2026 Find X9 Ultra; they could be made by different brands. While a constantly-changing design is interesting in its own way — I have no idea what the Find X10 will look like — that isn't an issue with Pixels; Google clearly has its design language dialed in, and it isn't going to change that anytime soon.

Anyway, the Pixel 11 Pro is a standout small flagship, and the Pixel 9 Pro is the same. I like the smaller design, and while I inevitably gravitate to larger phones, there's no denying that there's an audience that wants a smaller device with high-end internals, and other than the 6.3-inch panel size and smaller battery, the Pro devices are unchanged from their Pro XL siblings.

The 6.3-inch OLED panel is great in its own right; both phones have good color vibrancy and class-leading brightness figures. The only difference is that the 11 Pro gets brighter in outdoor use, but other than that, they're identical. Also, both devices get IP68 dust and water resistance, and they're built to last.

Google Pixel 11 Pro vs. Pixel 9 Pro: Hardware and cameras

The Tensor G6 powering the Pixel 11 Pro is faster and does a better job overall, but it's still not set up for any intensive gaming, and at this point, it's clear that it just isn't a priority for Google. That said, it is reliable in everyday use, and the device itself has good fluidity. The same is true on the Pixel 9 Pro as well, and I still don't see any issues with the device in regular tasks.

Similarly, battery life is about the same, but the 11 Pro gets Qi 2.2 integration, going up to 25W — the 9 Pro is limited to standard 12W Qi charging. Connectivity is the same on both devices, and while the 11 Pro is using a new modem, I don't see much of a difference in daily use.

The Pixel 11 Pro has a new camera, and it takes slightly better photos and videos. But like previous years, the best features are software-related: Camera Looks lets you change the tonality of the photos to a significant degree, and I like the feature quite a bit. There's also Magic Capture, which automatically takes the best photo while shooting a video, and it makes a lot of sense if you have kids that are constantly moving.

Google Pixel 11 Pro vs. Pixel 9 Pro: Which should you buy?

There is a lot to like in the Pixel 11 Pro, and the new software features go a long way in differentiating the phone. That said, Google is likely to bring most of these to older Pixels — including the Pixel 9 Pro — so you're not really missing out on much there.

Other than that, I don't see many differences to the Pixel 9 Pro. It's still a fabulous phone two years after its launch, and if you're using the device, there's no reason to get the Pixel 11 Pro.

While Google provided a modicum of upgrades with the rest of the Pixel 11 models this year — the Pixel 11 Pro, 11 Pro XL, and 11 Pro Fold have new camera modules, brighter OLED panels, and faster charging — the standard Pixel 11 is basically unchanged to its predecessor.

So, I'll make this easy: don't buy the Pixel 11 if you're using a phone that's less than two years old. Most of the new features revolve around the software, and those will trickle down to older models anyway, so you're not getting a whole lot that's new with the Pixel 11.

Yes, the new Tensor G6 is a little faster, but it is still hobbled when it comes to gaming, and in my usage, I didn't see much of a difference between the Pixel 11 and Pixel 10. There is better fluidity on the Pixel 11, but that alone doesn't justify an upgrade. Annoyingly, you still don't get decent thermal management on the device — that is limited to the Pro models.

I like the Hibiscus color that Google introduced this year, and the Pistachio model is similarly vibrant. The overall design hasn't changed, but the camera bar looks a little cleaner this year, and it is a little better to hold. On that note, I like the size of the Pixel 11; the 6.3-inch OLED panel gives you enough real estate, but it's much better to use one-handed.

The base Pixel 11 now comes with 256GB of storage, but you're paying $899 — $100 more than last year — so it evens out. There isn't a whole lot new with the battery either. The Pixel 11 has a slightly bigger 4,985mAh battery, and it uses the same 30W USB PD charging tech. There's 25W Qi 2.2 integration this time, and this is a decent benefit to using modern Pixels — you don't need to use a case to charge the phone with a Qi 2.2 charger.

It has the same trio of cameras as last year, including a 48MP main camera, 13MP wide-angle, and 10.3MP tele lens with 5x optical zoom and OIS, and it takes slightly better photos thanks to a new ISP and tuning changes, it isn't a huge difference to the Pixel 10. Google's new Camera Looks feature gives you greater control in customizing the look and feel of the resultant photos, and I like it quite a lot.

The Pixel 11 only makes sense if you're using an older phone and want to upgrade this year, or if you have a carrier deal that gets you the phone without paying an additional fee. Outside of that, I don't see a need to buy the device.

If anything, the Pixel 10a is a better choice if you just need a phone that nails the basics, and you don't necessarily want a dedicated tele lens. There's a reason the Pixel A series sells a lot more than the numbered devices; you're getting a lot of the same features at roughly half the price, and there's no way to beat that kind of value.

Google's 2026 phone lineup is here, but if you were hoping to snag the best Pixel 11 deals, you better act fast. From now through August 27th at 11:59pm PST, Amazon will give you a free $100 gift card when you buy the base model Google Pixel 11 on its website. Go with the Pixel 11 Pro instead and your gift card balance will increase to $200. No trade-in required, no strings attached!

We've seen a lot of Pixel 11 deals since the phones were unveiled earlier this month, but few offers have been this straightforward. The only tricky part now is grabbing the deal before it expires. Once this free gift card promotion ends, it's gone for good. 

It's your last chance to get a free Amazon gift card with the purchase of a Google Pixel 11

• See the top deals available at Amazon today

Unlike some smartphone releases, the Google Pixel 11 is more about careful refinement than dramatic transformation. The device takes the stellar foundation of last year's Google Pixel 10 and adds a new Tensor G6 chipset for faster performance, twice the base storage, and an upgraded camera system. You also get faster charging and Android 17 straight out of the carton.

The 2026 flagship also keeps a lot of the specs that make Google Pixel phones so desirable, from the AI-boosted camera tech to the seven years of guaranteed OS and security upgrades. 

Indeed, this offer from Amazon may not be as flashy as the many carrier deals and trade-in opportunities that are floating around right now, but if you value simplicity, here is an easy way to get a powerful Pixel device and some free spending money without all of the pesky fine print. 

Once upon a time, Pixels pioneered fast charging standards, shipping with 18W chargers in the box, leaving most other smartphone companies in the dust. But over the years, as phone charging standards have evolved, Pixels have remained alongside Samsung and Apple phones as the slowest-charging smartphones on the market.

The Pixel 11 series charges noticeably more slowly out of the box than the Pixel 10, even with the same charger, but a hidden setting fixes the issue if you meet certain conditions. It's called Extreme Charging, and it's the first time we've seen Google directly address this problem with a unique, non-hardware-based solution.

All four Pixel 11 models support Extreme Charging, although not every model uses it as effectively. During our testing, only the Pixel 11 Pro XL truly benefits from the setting, while the other Pixel 11 Pro phones show a much smaller difference in charging time. Here's how to use it to help alleviate battery anxiety if your phone suddenly runs low on battery.

What is Extreme Charging?

Extreme Charging is a new Pixel 11 family feature that enables the fastest charging that Google's hardware supports. In addition to charging at the highest supported wattage, Extreme Charging pauses many apps while charging.

This ensures that your Pixel isn't getting extra hot while charging (since charging and running lots of apps at once can have that effect) and also means your phone can charge much faster.

Extreme Charging needs to be enabled every time you plug the phone in and when it's below 50%, but once enabled, it's a 1-tap action. To get the most out of Extreme Charging, ensure you're using one of the best fast chargers, preferably at least a 45W model with 21V PPS. You can also use Google's official charger to ensure full compatibility.

How fast is Extreme Charging?

For most Pixel 11 models, Extreme charging makes little to no difference. I have all three Pixel 11 Pro models in my possession and have drained each to 0%. I then plugged them into a supported 45W Anker charger (like this one) and tapped the Extreme Charging button to enable it (more on how to find it below).

I then set a 15-minute timer and recorded the charging percentage at the end of the timer. After a second 15-minute timer, I recorded that charging percentage. This test is identical to our in-house battery-charging test used for all smartphone reviews. Android Central's Derrek Lee also performed the same test with his Pixel 11 and the 67W Dual Port charger.

The results were fascinating, but it's clear that the Pixel 11 Pro XL is the only Pro model that genuinely benefits from Extreme Charging. The other models see a small boost after 15 minutes, and a larger difference is noticeable after 30 minutes, so there is some benefit to Extreme Charging for the rest of the Pixel 11 models, but nothing compared to the Pro XL.

How to enable Extreme Charging on a Pixel 11

Extreme Charging is only available on Pixel 11 phones when your phone's battery is under 50%. Once your battery is low enough, plug it into a compatible 30W, 45W, or even faster charger, then follow these steps:

1. When your phone's battery is under 50%, plug it into at least a 30W charger.

2. Open system settings by tapping the Settings icon in your app drawer, or swiping down on the status bar twice, then tapping the gear icon at the bottom of the screen.

3. Scroll down to and tap Battery & charging.

4. Scroll down and tap Extreme Charging Mode.

5. Tap the button to turn on Extreme Charging.

You must enable Extreme Charging every time you want to use the feature, but don't worry. You don't have to go through all that nonsense again. Once you enable the option in system settings, a handy shortcut appears on your lock screen whenever your phone is plugged into a charger and the battery is under 50%.

1. When your phone's battery is under 50%, plug it into at least a 30W charger.

2. On the lock screen, tap the Use Extreme Charging button at the bottom of the screen.

Additionally, you could enable the Extreme Charging tile in Quick Settings by following these steps:

1. Swipe down on the status bar twice. That's the area at the top of the screen with the clock and battery/connection icons.

2. Tap the pencil icon below the grid of quick toggle buttons to open the edit menu.

3. Scroll down to Extreme Charging and tap the plus button next to it to add it to the Quick Toggles collection.

4. Scroll back up and resize the Extreme Charging button to your liking.

This gives you multiple ways to enable Extreme Charging the next time you plug it in, making it easy to get the fastest charging possible on your Pixel 11 Pro XL.

It has been a year of iterative updates for book-style foldables (as my Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra review points out), and the Pixel 11 Pro Fold is no different. Google went with a slightly thinner design and shaved 19g from the weight, but it did so by decreasing the battery size. Then there's the price: the Pixel 11 Pro Fold starts at $1,899, a $100 increase over its predecessor.

There are some upgrades though. The Pixel 11 Pro Fold is powered by the new Tensor G6, it is faster in daily use, and the foldable finally has a new main camera; in my limited testing, it took better photos in just about every scenario.

Ultimately, does the Pixel 11 Pro Fold do enough to justify an upgrade? I think so. I used the Pixel 10 Pro Fold extensively over the course of the last year, and the 11 Pro Fold addresses several pain points. It's easier to hold and use, takes better photos, has better durability, and while I was initially worried about the smaller battery, the phone managed to last just as long as the 10 Pro Fold, so this hasn't proven to be a problem.

I'm highlighting the things that stood out in my week-long usage of the Pixel 11 Pro Fold. This should give you a better indication as to what you're getting with Google's latest foldable, and whether it's worthy of an upgrade.

Intelligent software

While Google's claims of delivering an Intelligent OS are nebulous at best, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold comes with plenty of new software tricks that make a difference. Gemini Intelligence has a suite of decent features, and Rambler is my favorite — it takes your dictation and polishes it into structured text, and it made me want to actually use voice dictation.

Bubbles multitasking is great, and the floating windows mode provides greater flexibility when using the inner panel. The UI in general is clean and uncluttered, and I like the customizability of the quick tiles, ability to tweak colors throughout the interface, and all the unique software extras that come as standard on Pixels, like Now Playing. Another thing Google got right is the fluidity; the 11 Pro Fold feels better than its predecessor when using both next to one another.

Better durability

The Pixel 11 Pro Fold is heavier than other foldables, but the upside is that it is built to last. With an IP68 rating, you're getting a device that's guaranteed to withstand dust and water ingress, and that is a big deal.

Notably, the 11 Pro Fold is the only foldable in the U.S. that delivers this guarantee — the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra and Moto Razr Fold get IP48, and while they do a good job against water, they don't prevent dust from getting into the hinge.

I know just how well IP68 resistance holds up in real-world use, and there's no doubt that the added durability absolutely makes a difference when using it at the beach or near the pool.

It's magnetic

Battery life is in line with the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, even though the 11 Pro Fold has a smaller 4,800mAh battery. Annoyingly, you get the smallest battery of any book-style foldable, and I really want Google to do better in this area.

The 11 Pro Fold lasts an entire day with medium use, but I had to plug in the foldable by the evening on most days. Thankfully, this is where the built-in Qi 2.2 tech makes a big difference. The 11 Pro Fold has 25W Qi 2.2 charging, and as the magnets are integrated into the chassis, you don't need any accessories to use a Qi 2.2 charger or power bank — unlike the Galaxy Z Fold 8.

Bright spots

The Pixel 11 Pro Fold gets brighter than previous generations, and the inner and outer OLED panels are among the best you'll find in this category. There are no issues with either screen when it comes to brightness or color vibrancy, and the slightly wider 6.5-inch cover panel is a delight.

The only problem with the inner screen is that there's no anti-reflective coating, so you will notice glare while using it outdoors. This is something the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra does a lot better, and Google needs to go the same route next year.

Usable cameras

In my opinion, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold doesn't do much to justify the Pro moniker when it comes to the cameras. Vivo's X Fold 5 and the OPPO Find N6 are still my go-to choices if you need a foldable with great cameras, but these aren't available in the U.S.

The 10 Pro Fold measures favorably against the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra and Moto Razr Fold, but it's annoying that Google chose to limit its latest camera tech — like Instant Night Sight and 120x zoom — to the Pixel 11 Pro and 11 Pro XL. The way I see it, the 11 Pro Fold is the costliest device in Google's portfolio, so it should get the best cameras, but that's clearly not the case.

Ultimately, deciding to get the Pixel 11 Pro Fold comes down to preference. I like it better than the Z Fold 8 Ultra and Razr Fold because of the software and durability, but there's no doubting that they are faster, last longer, and lighter. The 11 Pro Fold may not be the best foldable if you go by the numbers, but it is the one that I enjoy using the most.

Mint Mobile has finally announced its Google Pixel 11 deals, and they're no joke. Whether you want the base model Pixel 11 or the gargantuan Pixel 11 XL, you can save a ton of cash when you sign up for Mint, especially if you bundle the phone with some wireless service in bulk.

Pair the purchase of the base model Pixel 11 with one year of the Unlimited plan, for instance, and you'll get $275 off the phone AND 50% off the wireless. In other words, you're getting a full 12 months of T-Mobile-powered mobile coverage and a brand new flagship phone for just $804 (or $67 per month when you use affirm). Considering that the retail cost of the Google Pixel 11 starts at $899, you're essentially getting a full year of unlimited talk, text, and data for free with the purchase of the phone.

I'd argue that the base model device offers the best value here, but there are similar deals available for the Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL. Regardless of the Google phone you choose, if you were looking to get a new phone and a new wireless plan in one fell swoop, Mint Mobile's offers are unmatched.

Mint Mobile is an approachable MVNO carrier owned and operated by T-Mobile. It utilizes a unique buy-in-bulk plan system that lets you purchase wireless in 3, 6, and 12-month increments of time. The annual Unlimited plan, which is easily the best value, gives you 12 months of unlimited talk, text, and data on T-Mo's vast 5G network, plus you'll get a free mobile hotspot and calls to Mexico, Canada, and the UK at no additional cost.

Sure, you miss out on some of the premium perks offered by more-expensive unlimited plans, but if you just want cheap and straightforward wireless coverage, Mint Mobile is one of the best providers around.

The Pixel 11 deals described here are only available for new customers, but if you've been looking for a good time to switch phone plans, this might be it.

More Google Pixel 11 deals at Mint Mobile

Which Google Pixel 11 should I choose?

It depends on what you want in a smartphone. The base model Google Pixel 11 takes the stellar foundation of its predecessor, the Pixel 10, and adds a new processor, faster wireless charging, and an upgraded camera system. You also get Android 17 straight out of the box, in addition to the standard features you'd expect in a Pixel phone, such as a vibrant AMOLED display and seven years of OS/security upgrades guaranteed.

Going with the Google Pixel 11 Pro gets you all of the above alongside an upgraded camera system, brighter display, and the new HiLight LED light array around the camera bump. Do you prefer larger phones? The Pixel 11 Pro XL adds a 6.8-inch AMOLED display and a larger battery than the rest of the flagship lineup.

It took me a while to like the Pixel 10 Pro Fold; I didn't like that Google basically retained the same feature-set as the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and just added a bigger battery and IP68 ingress protection. At 258g, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is one of the heaviest foldables — only my Huawei Mate XT is heavier, and that's basically a tablet that folds down to a phone.

The heft notwithstanding, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold has other issues: the cameras are underwhelming compared to the Vivo X Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, battery life is average, and cellular connectivity isn't quite as stable as I'd like. But having used the foldable on and off for the better part of a year now, I will say that it is much better to use than its specs would suggest, and the software continues to be among the best around.

Software matters

Google's software is why I used the Pixel 10 Pro Fold instead of other foldables. I like the bright colors and customizability that's available in Material You, and Google does a great job with the interface in general, delivering a clean UI without any clutter. And with the 10 Pro Fold, Google optimized the software a little better, and there's better fluidity than in previous generations, which makes a noticeable difference when navigating the interface.

Magic Cue is one of my favorite additions, and I like that it pulls up any contextual detail without me having to dig for it. Whether that's sharing waybill details when calling DHL about recent deliveries or surfacing reservation details, it is genuinely useful. Google does a good job bringing most Gemini features to other phones, but there are a few exclusive to Pixels, like Magic Cue.

The software has gotten better with Android 17, and Bubbles multitasking is easily my favorite feature. It's annoying that it won't be coming to other phones, but the floating windows mode makes it easy to maximize the real estate of the 8-inch inner panel, and I use it constantly. Other foldables do a great job with multitasking in general — ColorOS' Open Canvas is the gold standard — and while Google should have stolen the feature, it's good to see some progress in this area.

Shining bright

I also like the size of the cover screen; the 6.4-inch panel is slightly wider than its predecessor, and it's the ideal size. While Google had its share of screen-related issues in the past, I didn't see any problems with the outer or inner panels in the year I used the Pixel 10 Pro Fold. Both panels are among the brightest in the category, and they have good color vibrancy.

After a year of unfolds, the crease hasn't deformed, and the hinge articulation is just as smooth as the day I set up the device. A lot of that has to do with IP68 dust and water resistance. While I didn't submerge the foldable in water, dust ingress is a constant problem on these devices, and thankfully, I didn't have to worry about that in the slightest.

Not quite point-and-click

With plenty of tuning updates over the course of the year, the cameras on the Pixel 10 Pro Fold still don't pass muster. It has been a regular source of frustration with the foldable, and in a year where other brands made huge strides in this area — the X Fold 5 and Find N6 have outstanding cameras — the 10 Pro Fold is distinctly second-best.

I carry two phones, and for most of the last 12 months, the secondary phone was the iPhone 17 Pro, so I had an alternative whenever I needed to take photos. That doesn't make it any less annoying that a $1,799 foldable can't take reliable photos or videos.

Rounding out

The 10 Pro Fold is heavy enough as it is, so I didn't bother with a case. The foldable took its share of tumbles, but it is unscathed. There are some scratches that have accumulated over the course of the year, but on the whole, the Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection did its job. If anything, I don't put a case on any phone that has Victus 2, and it's proven to be reliable — at least in the way I use my devices.

While I didn't think much of the design, the rounded corners definitely make a difference. They make holding the 10 Pro Fold a little easier, and there's enough thickness at the sides to open the inner screen. This is an issue on the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and the Z Fold 8 Ultra, and not just because they're thinner — the X Fold 5 and Find N6 are just as easy to unlock as the 10 Pro Fold. I'm chalking it up to the way Samsung designs its foldables.

I'll admit that the Pixel 10 Pro Fold doesn't have the best internals. It's continually annoying that Google prioritizes other areas like the TPU instead of CPU and GPU performance, and this means the Tensor G5 isn't suited for playing demanding games.

That said, it held up a lot better than I imagined. While I test visually-intensive games as part of a review, I don't play high-end games on my phone all that much, and the ones I actually play the most — Balatro, Ball x Pit, and CloverPit — run without any issues. There is some overheating with gaming sessions lasting over an hour, but that's the case with every foldable, and not unique to the Pixel 10 Pro Fold.

Another bugbear is connectivity. The Exynos modem that Google went with isn't as good at maintaining a signal, so I frequently saw cellular connectivity issues while at home.

The single biggest annoyance with the Pixel 10 Pro Fold proved to be the cameras. Other than that, the foldable was better than I imagined. Thankfully, I didn't run into many software bugs; outside of Magic Cue getting disabled by an update, I didn't notice any problems. I know that's an outlier considering the thousands of messages on Google's troubleshooting pages, but it hasn't been much of an issue in my usage.

While I enjoyed using the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, I wouldn't necessarily recommend the foldable. There isn't a single feature that truly stands out, and while that's not a bad thing, it doesn't make for an exciting phone.

Look, I generally prefer Google's software and don't mind some of the annoyances that come along the way, but it may not be what you're looking for in a device that costs over $1,700 — particularly when there are better all-round choices available.

If you're a Pixel fan and are considering a foldable, I'd suggest getting the 11 Pro Fold; I'm switching to it now, and it addresses a lot of the 10 Pro Fold's issues around imaging. And if you don't have a brand allegiance and just want to try out a book-style foldable, the Moto Razr Fold continues to be fabulous.

Google Pixel 11 Pro XL vs Pixel 9 Pro XL: Design and display

Honestly, there isn't much of a difference between both phones. Google retained similar dimensions over the last two years, and the result is that the Pixel 9 Pro XL is nearly the same size and weight as the Pixel 11 Pro XL.

This is easily noticeable while holding the phones next to each other. If anything, I like the in-hand feel of the Pixel 9 Pro XL. Google sent me the all-matte Obsidian model of the 11 Pro XL, and it is dull. I like the matte texture, but the phone itself doesn't look exciting, and I would've preferred the vibrant Canyon model instead.

The one key difference is that the camera bar on the Pixel 11 Pro XL doesn't jut out as much, so it looks a little more elegant. Both phones have the same IP68 dust and water resistance, so they're equally good at weathering anything to do with daily use.

Interestingly, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is when we saw the Actua display tech, and Google is using a continuation of the same this year as well. The 11 Pro XL gets brighter, but the 9 Pro XL does a terrific job as well, and the panel has vibrant colors and has zero issues in outdoor use.

Google Pixel 11 Pro XL vs Pixel 9 Pro XL: Hardware and software

The Pixel 11 Pro XL runs Google's latest 3nm Tensor G6, and it is using new cores and is noticeably better in everyday use than the Tensor G4-powered 9 Pro XL. It has better efficiency as well, and even though both phones have similarly-sized batteries, my Pixel 11 Pro XL is lasting a few hours longer on average.

Where I see the biggest advantage is Qi 2.2 integration in the Pixel 11 Pro XL; having these magnets built into the phone means I can use any Qi 2.2 charger or power bank and get 25W charging, and it genuinely makes a big difference. Look, I didn't care about this at all in the past as wireless charging was limited to 12W — as is the case on the Pixel 9 Pro XL — but with 25W, it's close enough to the standard 45W USB PD charging standard that I use it all the time now.

Other than that, there honestly isn't much to differentiate both phones. While the Pixel 11 Pro XL has a little more power, it still isn't a gaming phone by any measure, so if that's what you're after, you should look at Pixel 11 Pro XL alternatives. It's a similar story with the software; both phones get seven years of software updates, and outside of a few extras that are exclusive on the Pixel 11 Pro XL, the software is identical.

Google Pixel 11 Pro XL vs Pixel 9 Pro XL: Cameras

Both phones have a similar set of cameras: a 50MP main camera, 48MP telephoto lens with OIS and 5x optical zoom, and 48MP wide-angle lens. While the auxiliary lenses are unchanged between both, the Pixel 11 Pro XL has a new 50MP camera with better light intake, and it does a better job in taking photos and videos in challenging scenarios.

However, the best part about using Pixels is the camera software; Google introduced Camera Looks this year, and it gives you much greater control in tailoring the look of the photos.

There's also Magic Capture, which automagically gives you the best shot each and every time. If you have little children that constantly move about, this mode is definitely handy.

Google Pixel 11 Pro XL vs Pixel 9 Pro XL: Which should you buy?

The Pixel 11 Pro XL is $100 costlier this year, and while it has some new features, the fundamentals are pretty much unchanged from the Pixel 9 Pro XL. Honestly, with the 256GB model coming with 12GB of RAM instead of the 16GB that was standard for the last two years, I'd argue that you're getting less for your money. If you're using the 9 Pro XL and are mulling an upgrade, I'd wait — I don't see enough of a change to make the move.

If you're on an older phone and are considering an upgrade, however, the Pixel 11 Pro XL could be a good choice — unless you can get a good deal on the 9 Pro XL. While Google launched the 9 Pro XL two years ago, the phone is built to last, and it will get regular updates and new features for at least another five years.

The Google Pixel 11 Pro and Pro XL are two very full-featured smartphones. If you're a new Pixel user, you're going to spend days sifting through all the available options and features to find your favorites, but before you begin that long (but fun!) journey, you should focus on securing the freebies that come with every Pixel 11 phone.

I'm specifically talking about the 6-month Gemini Pro subscription that comes for free with your Pixel 11. In the past, I was always prompted to activate this trial during the first-time setup when I got a new Pixel, but this year was different. I had to hunt for the offer to make sure it still existed and, thankfully, it does!

With the Pixel 9 and 10 series, Google offered a full year of Gemini Advanced (now known as Google AI Pro), but the Pixel 11 series lowered that to 6 months. Still, it's hard to argue with 6 free months of Google's AI Pro service, which is roughly a $120 value you get just for owning a Pixel 11.

What is Google AI Pro?

Google renamed Gemini Advanced to Google AI Pro in 2025, and with it came a slew of new tools and benefits compared to the free Gemini model and the Google AI Plus subscription. Here's everything Google AI Pro gets you in 2026:

• 4x higher usage limits in the Gemini app
• 1,000 Google Flow credits (Google's creative studio)
• Gemini 3 Pro in Google Search
• Access to the Jules coding agent with higher limits
• Google Antigravity (Google's agentic development platform)
• 5x higher limits on Gemini Notebook (formerly NotebookLM)
• Gemini in Gmail, Docs, and more
• Google Home Premium (30 days of event history for your Nest devices)
• Gemini in Chrome
• YouTube Premium Lite
• 5TB of cloud storage

There's a lot included with Google AI Pro, but I find only a few things particularly useful. Google Home Premium and YouTube Premium Lite are easily my favorite two features. Subscribing to those features by themselves would normally run you $18 a month, so you can already see how good of a value the Google AI Pro subscription is at the normal $19.99 a month rate.

I don't use the vast majority of the advanced Gemini features here, like Jules, Flow, Antigravity, or Notebook, but those would all be incredible values for anyone who might want to take advantage of everything Gemini offers.

How to activate your free Google AI Pro subscription

Now that you understand why Google AI Pro is worthwhile (and why a free 6-month trial is such a great deal), here's what you need to do to activate the trial:

1. Open the Gemini app. You can find it in your app drawer.

2. Click the menu button in the top-left corner, then tap the settings gear at the bottom next to your account name.

3. Tap the Start trial button underneath the "Manage subscription" button.

4. Make sure the screen says "With your Pixel 11, you get 6 months for $0," then tap the blue Start trial button.

Beginning a Google AI Pro trial starts a subscription through Google Play, so the next screen will ask you to select a payment method for when the trial ends. Don't worry, you're not going to pay anything right now; Google just wants to set up the subscription so that it cycles through the credits you get with your Pixel 11.

Remember, you can always cancel the subscription before the trial ends if you don't want to pay anything by the listed payment start date.

1. Verify that "6-month free trial" is listed under the "Starting today" section on the subscription screen.

2. Note the starting date for payments. I recommend asking Gemini to set a reminder for this date so you can cancel the subscription if you'd like.

3. Select the payment method you want to use when the trial ends, then hit Subscribe.

4. Congrats! Now you have Google AI Pro for the next 6 months for free!

Now, when you open the Gemini app, you can select from more advanced Gemini models (plus, use Gemini a lot more before you hit the daily limit), use new Gemini tools in Google apps like Gmail and Google Drive, watch YouTube videos ad-free, see 30 days of smart home history (and make advanced queries in the Google Home app), and lots more. Have fun!

Google got a lot right with the Pixel 11 Pro XL; it has better cameras, a cleaner design, brighter OLED panel, and is faster in just about every scenario. And with Google focusing on Gemini Intelligence, there's a lot of great AI-assisted software features that make the phone stand out.

That said, there are plenty of annoyances as well — if anything, the decrease in RAM and battery size along with the underwhelming GPU make the Pixel 11 Pro XL a downgrade in many ways. So if you're a Pixel user and are looking to switch, there are plenty of great choices available. I used all phones launched in the last 12 months, so all the options listed here are devices I used extensively.

Annoyingly, the two phones I consider to be the best choices — the Find X9 Pro and Vivo X300 Pro — aren't available in the U.S., but they are sold in plenty of western countries, including the U.K. The U.S. phone market is distinctly lackluster compared to most regions, and that's down to the chokehold carriers have in the country. That makes getting a hold of the best phones harder, and in some cases, it's just not worth the hassle. Having accounted for all of that, these are the six phones I suggest buying instead of the Pixel 11 Pro XL.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

I don't like using Samsung phones, but there's no doubting that they're immensely popular. The Galaxy S26 Ultra isn't too different to the Pixel 11 Pro XL in that it is also mostly unchanged to its predecessor, but you get faster internals powered by Qualcomm.

Outside of the silicon, the S26 Ultra is very similar to the Pixel 11 Pro XL; both phones have cameras that are at the same level, battery life is largely identical, and you get the same IP68 ingress protection. The biggest difference is with the software: Samsung's One UI 9 doesn't look anything like what you get on Pixels, and it has a lot of extras that are tied into Samsung's ecosystem.

Look, if you like Samsung's software and want all the unique extras that you get — and Galaxy AI — then the S26 Ultra continues to be a solid choice. It'll get the same seven years of software updates, and has a strong ecosystem of wearables and connected devices.

Redmagic 11S Pro

If you intend to play games on your phone or need a device that's just about the fastest available today, you should get the Redmagic 11S Pro. The 16GB/512GB model of the phone costs $899 in the U.S., which is $520 less than what you'd pay to get an equivalent Pixel 11 Pro XL. Now, the Redmagic 11S Pro's cameras are decidedly average, and they don't measure up to what Google is offering. But given the price difference, you may as well just get a dedicated camera if you're interested in taking a lot of photos and videos (I'm partial to the OM-D E-M10 Mark IV).

Other than that, the Redmagic 11S Pro is a beast. It doesn't have a cutout, so you get an all-screen design that I like quite a bit — it's one of the main reasons why I like using these phones. And I get that the design may be a little ostentatious (it is a gaming phone, after all), but the cameras sit flush with the body, and I like the in-hand feel. Oh, and there's legitimate liquid cooling on the device, and it holds up to marathon gaming or Netflix binge sessions without breaking a sweat.

You also get a huge 7,500mAh battery that lasts up to two days, better connectivity than the Pixel 11 Pro XL in any situation, the best Qualcomm silicon available today, a vibrant OLED, and an IPX8 ingress protection.

The software is pretty good too! Redmagic cleaned up its act two years ago, and you get a plain interface that doesn't have any overt styling, but with great optimization and a good range of customizability. The only issue is that the phone will get just two Android OS updates, which is pitiful next to Google and Samsung. But if you're okay with that limitation, the Redmagic 11S Pro is a great choice.

POCO F8 Ultra

Okay, POCO doesn't sell the F8 Ultra in the U.S., but you can easily get it via resellers on Amazon for $889. That's the 12GB/256GB edition, and it is close to what the phone costs in the U.K. (£599 ($818)). The F8 Ultra has a trio of 50MP cameras, and they're great; you get good photos in any lighting condition, and the versatility of the lenses means you get usable shots from 0.6x to 10x without any issues.

Then there's the design. POCO went with a unique denim finish, and it makes holding the F8 Ultra decidedly different (but in a good way). The texture feels great, and the phone is lighter than the Pixel 11 Pro XL in spite of having a bigger 6,500mAh battery. There's 100W fast charging as well, and as it uses a standard USB PD profile, you can use any 100W GaN charger with the phone.

Oh, and the F8 Ultra has the best onboard sound of any phone I tested in the last two years. It is tuned by Bose, and there's a dedicated woofer unit that adds a lot of character to the sound. The software is decent as well, and you don't get much in the way of AI. The UI is relatively modern, and while there is a lot of bloatware out of the box, it can be easily uninstalled. The phone will get four Android OS updates, which is decent in this category.

iPhone 17 Pro

If you're looking to switch away from Android altogether, the iPhone 17 Pro is the way to go. I use it as my secondary phone, and while battery life isn't as good as a Pixel, you get good software features, guaranteed stability, and a strong ecosystem of accessories.

Switching to an iPhone is easier than ever, but it isn't just about buying another device — you'll also need to think about your digital purchases. If you're like me and bought hundreds of apps and pay for subscriptions via the Play Store, you will need to set up all of that again on the App Store, and that's daunting. That's one of the reasons why moving to a different mobile OS is difficult; you're basically starting from scratch if you haven't used iOS in the past.

The upside is that the iPhone 17 Pro isn't usually plagued by software issues, and as a daily driver, it's one of the most stable phones around.

OPPO Find X9 Pro

The Find X9 Pro is my second-favorite phone of 2026 — only bettered by its even costlier sibling, the Find X9 Ultra — and it is a fantastic phone. The cameras are on another level entirely, the MediaTek Dimensity 9500 platform is noticeably faster than the Tensor G6, and you get a massive battery.

Now, a big limitation with Chinese phones in the past was the software, but that isn't an issue in 2026. ColorOS 16 has a modern design, plenty of great features, and it's just as good to use as the Pixel Launcher. In fact, it is the Android skin I used the most in 2026, and features like AI Bill Manager are genuinely useful.

The Find X9 Pro costs £1,099 ($1,500) in the U.K., and that's the 16GB/512GB model — the equivalent Pixel 11 Pro XL is £1,419 ($1,936!). Additionally, you get the Watch X3 bundled with every phone, which is pretty great in its own right.

Vivo X300 Pro

The X300 Pro is the only phone that has the same caliber of cameras as the Find X9 Pro. Vivo did a great job with the phone in general, and I really like the design — even though the camera housing is gigantic. The phone costs €1,089 ($1,274) for the 16GB/512GB edition, so you're not paying as much as the Pixel 11 Pro XL (€1,329 ($1,553)).

What I like the most about the X300 Pro is that Vivo brought its excellent OriginOS software to global regions. The UI is clean and highly customizable, and it makes using the X300 Pro a delight. It doesn't quite get as many updates as the Pixel 11 Pro XL, but Vivo guarantees five Android OS updates.

Which should you buy?

If you just need one recommendation and don't mind going the reseller route, I'd suggest getting the POCO F8 Ultra — it is a pretty good all-rounder. The Find X9 Pro and Vivo X300 Pro are costlier and harder to get in the U.S., and while they have better cameras, you're ultimately paying too much.

The Redmagic 11S Pro is also a solid choice if you need something with plenty of raw power. And if you want the closest feel to a Pixel and are interested in buying a broader ecosystem of devices, then the Galaxy S26 Ultra or the iPhone 17 Pro are your go-to choices in the U.S.

Google's newest smartphones are finally available in stores, but if you missed the preorder period, fear not: there are still quite a few impressive Pixel 11 deals worth checking out today. 

Head to Verizon, for instance, and you can get the base model Google Pixel 11 for 100% free when you add a line with the Unlimited Welcome, Unlimited Plus, or Unlimited Ultimate plans. No trade-in required!

• See my complete guide to the best Google Pixel 11 deals on the web

I wouldn't call the Pixel 11 a dramatic upgrade from its predecessor, but Google did introduce a few thoughtful improvements that make the base model a worthwhile purchase in 2026. The phone comes equipped with the new Tensor G6 chipset, an upgraded camera system, and considerably faster wireless charging than the Google Pixel 10. The new model is also a few grams lighter than the 2025 flagship, despite the fact that the Pixel 11 actually comes with twice the base storage.

Aside from those upgrades, the Google Pixel 11 is largely indistinguishable from the 10. You get the same AMOLED display size and brightness, the same 12GB of RAM, and the same seven-year OS upgrade guarantee.

If you already own the Pixel 10, in other words, don't feel compelled to upgrade right away. But if you've never bought a Google phone before, the Pixel 11 is a great starting point — particularly when it's paired with an excellent Verizon deal like this one. 

Need more power?

More Google Pixel 11 series deals

The preorder period has come to an end, but there are still a few Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold deals hanging around if you know where to look. From trade-in opportunities to free gift cards, keep reading for all of the best Pixel 11 Pro Fold deals on the web (so far).

The long-awaited Pixel 11 Pro Fold comes equipped with the new Tensor G6 processor, 16GB of RAM as standard, and one of the most advanced camera systems ever built into a foldable phone. It's also thinner and lighter than its predecessor while sporting a new reinforced hinge and IP68 durability straight out of the box.

At $1,899 for the 256GB configuration, the Pixel phone is also pretty expensive, which is why the following deals are so essential. Keep reading for the best offers so far, and don't forget to check back later: I'll keep adding new deals to this list as they go live.

Quick links

• The best Google Pixel 11 and Pixel 11 Pro deals
  
• Verizon: Up to $1,100 off with trade-in, new line
• T-Mobile: $900 off with most plans
• Amazon: free $350 gift card with purchase
• Best Buy: free $350 gift card with purchase
• Google Store: Up to $1,000 off with trade-in

Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold deals

FAQ

How much does the Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold cost?

The Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold starts at $1,899 for the 256GB configuration. That's obviously not cheap, but I was delighted to see that the foldable phone didn't receive a price increase this year (unlike some 2026 phones). All Pixel 11 series devices also come with six free months of the Google AI Pro plan.

How does the Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold compare to other foldable phones?

The Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold is being presented as the ultimate multitasking device, coming complete with the new Tensor G6 processor, 16GB of RAM, and useful productivity features like Split Screen and Drag & Drop.

You get two gorgeous Super Actua displays that are 20% brighter than last year's Pixel 10 Pro Fold, plus an upgraded hinge, scratch-resistant glass, and a design that's 10% lighter than the previous generation. The Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold is also equipped with an upgraded battery that's supposed to last up to 30 hours on a single charge.

These are some bold claims from Google, but we'll need to test the phone ourselves before we can attest to their veracity. If they're accurate, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold might be the best foldable phone that the company has ever produced.

Whether you're interested in the base model Pixel 11, the powerful Pixel 11 Pro, or the super-sized Pixel 11 Pro XL, there are quite a few Google Pixel 11 deals that could make these AI-boosted smartphones cheap (or even free) if you're willing to follow a few steps.

Indeed, there aren't any "straight" discounts for the Pixel 11 series just yet — and we probably won't see any serious price drops until the holiday season rolls around — but there are plenty of trade-in opportunities and carrier deals to tide you over in the meantime.

The new generation of Pixel phones takes the stellar foundation of the Google Pixel 10 series and adds a new processor, an upgraded camera system, and a set of stylish new color variants. The Pixel 11 Pro and 11 Pro XL also feature the new HiLight LED system, a fancy light array around the camera bar that's sure to turn heads. Keep reading for all of the best Pixel 11 discounts on the web (so far).

Quick links

• Google Pixel 11 official review
• Google Pixel 11 Pro official review
• The best Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold deals
  
• T-Mobile: FREE Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro with eligible line
• Verizon: FREE Pixel 11 with eligible line
• AT&T: FREE Pixel 11 phones with trade-in, new line
• Google Store: up to $650 off with trade-in
• Mint Mobile: up to $425, plus 50% off wireless
• Xfinity Mobile: FREE Pixel 11 with trade-in, new line

Google Pixel 11 deals

Google Pixel 11 Pro deals

Google Pixel 11 Pro XL deals

FAQ

How much does the Google Pixel 11 series cost?

The base model Google Pixel 11 is set to retail for $899 / €999, while the Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL will cost $1,099 / €1,199 and $1,299 / €1,399, respectively. The 128GB storage configuration has been removed with the Pixel 11 series, which means all three phones now start with 256GB of onboard storage.

The Google Pixel 11 Pro XL is the only phone in the flagship lineup to receive a price hike this year, selling for $100 more than its predecessor.

Which Google Pixel 11 phone should I choose?

It depends on what you're looking for! If you want something compact and affordable, the base model Google Pixel 11 is a great choice, with a stunning display, Tensor G6 processor, and a seven-year software promise.

If you want the same size but more power, you can upgrade to the Google Pixel 11 Pro and get a brighter display, better cameras, and the new HiLight LED light array. Last but not least, the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL takes the foundation of the Pixel 11 Pro and supersizes it, adding a 6.8-inch display with a larger battery and up to 16GB of RAM. Despite the higher cost, it's a great choice if you like using large phones (consider it Google's answer to the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra).

No matter which device you choose, you're getting a powerful AI-boosted Android phone with an efficient Tensor G6 chipset, at least 12GB of RAM, and seven years of OS and security upgrades guaranteed.

I already own the Pixel 10. Should I upgrade to the Google Pixel 11?

This is always a tough question whenever new phones come out. On the one hand, I'm generally of the opinion that manufacturers don't need to be producing new phones every single year, particularly when most flagship releases come with seven years of OS upgrades as standard.

If you already own the Google Pixel 10, you won't see a massive upgrade with the Pixel 11. I'd only jump to the new phone if you're particularly interested in the latest and greatest Pixel experience.

If, on the other hand, you own an older device and can score a good deal through the channels listed above, then by all means go for it. After all, these phones are sure to rank among the best Android phones ever built, so you won't be disappointed.

For years, Google Pixel phones were considered to have the best smartphone cameras. That was especially true if you were taking pictures of objects in motion, like pets or kids, but things seemed to peak with the Pixel 8 Pro series. I called that camera the best in the business, but competitors have since eclipsed it.

Now that the Pixel 11 Pro is out and includes a new ISP, upgraded hardware, and a ton of new software features and enhancements, Google is coming back to claim its crown, and it's mostly successful in this task.

It begins with a little magic

Of all the new features, Magic Capture is by far my favorite. Two and a half years ago, Honor debuted a similar feature that would automatically take photos based on facial expressions and motion, and Google is redefining that feature with something a little more predictable (and user-friendly).

Magic Capture can be accessed via the third button on the bottom bar in the camera viewfinder, making it a separate main mode from photography or video recording. That's because it combines both of these modes into one, giving you a full video of your photo session, plus highlight photos chosen specifically by Gemini.

Since this is run by AI, it's not going to take photos at the same time you might want, but it's probably going to catch something unexpected you might have missed if you were taking photos manually.

During the capture session, you can change zoom levels and even take manual photos at points where you want to ensure a photo gets saved. Magic Capture can be used in portrait or landscape orientations. It's easily my favorite camera feature in years, and truly a great reason to buy a Pixel 11 Pro.

Loving that fine detail

One of my favorite things about Pixel photos is the fine detail present in places most smartphone cameras miss. Too many companies try to make pictures look "perfect" by scrubbing away all the noise, but this results in photos that look artificial or "watercolor-like." The Pixel 11 Pro rarely makes this mistake.

In the two examples above, you'll see what I'm talking about. At 1x, the iPhone 17 Pro Max and Google Pixel 11 Pro photos look nearly identical, but zoom in a bit, and you'll see some stark differences. The iPhone's noise-canceling algorithm scrubs all the texture off those bricks, making them look fake and sterile. In the Pixel 11 Pro's photos, the bricks show their natural texture, and the photos look excellent.

This also gives the Pixel 11 Pro's photos a more film-like quality than the overly digital look most smartphones aim for, making them feel more authentic.

Picture-perfect portrait

For the past several years, Google Pixel phones have had arguably the worst portrait quality among major brands. Edge blurring was a mess, and Google's software, puzzlingly, had difficulty understanding where the subject ended and the background began. This year, that's completely changed, and I'm happy to report that Google's portraits are finally competitive again.

It seems the true problem here was a combination of camera hardware and the ISP (Image Signal Processor). As you can see above, the Pixel 10 Pro's shot is a mess, with weird edge blurring and messy cutouts around my hat. The Pixel 11 Pro's shot has none of that, and it looks fantastic.

The selfie camera also looks much better this year compared to the Pixel 10 Pro's, which regularly suffered from a weird digital/pixelated look. You probably don't zoom into selfies all that much, but if you ever find youself doing it, they'll look much nicer on a Pixel 11 Pro.

Telephoto me a story

Last year, I was extremely disappointed by the Pixel 10 Pro's telephoto camera. It often snapped blurry photos — something Pixel phones historically haven't had a problem with — and the overall zoom detail failed to match that of phones like the Galaxy S25 Ultra. This year, things are more competitive, but the Pixel 11 Pro still falls short of most Chinese brand smartphones (Honor, Oppo, Vivo, Xiaomi).

Across the hundreds of photos I've taken so far for this review, I've noticed a few trends between these phones. The Honor Magic 8 Pro often captures the most detail and offers the widest usable zoom range, but it tends to slightly overexpose shots and is a bit too vibrant. The iPhone 17 Pro Max tends to be the weakest telephoto camera, and Apple's processing is a little less aggressive with sharpening.

The Google Pixel 11 Pro sits in the middle ground between these two, often delivering more detail than the iPhone but less than the Honor. It also seems to have better overall exposure values in these shots, giving it a more natural look. The iPhone tops out at 40x zoom, though, so let's take a look at what happens beyond that.

At 30x and beyond, the Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro, and Honor Magic 8 Pro all allow you to use generative AI to enhance shots. For the most part, I find that this helps provide believable detail to images, so long as you don't zoom in too far.

The Honor Magic 8 Pro's larger telephoto sensor already pulls in more detail than the Pixel 11 Pro's, giving it an advantage right off the bat. The difference in detail and overall quality between these phones is obvious in the photos above, and it's here where Google loses to Chinese OEMs who use better hardware.

But at 120x zoom, things are more competitive. Since this zoom level is a bit silly anyway, I'm not taking much stock in the performance, but it's fun to look at the differences in each company's AI algorithms. Clearly, Honor understands what a roof texture is supposed to look like, but Google apparently knows how to get other building details just right.

A good year for Pixel cameras

Magic Capture is by far my favorite new camera feature of the last several years, making photo sessions fun and effortless for everyone. It's a perfect evolution of the shot-framing feature from last year and a great example of how AI can help people in everyday situations.

Overall, the Pixel 11 Pro's camera is quite excellent, and while the telephoto performance is still a bit disappointing at times, it's better than most of the competition here in the U.S., which is likely what Google is aiming for, anyway.

Google has shown its hand by unveiling the Pixel 11 series. Now that the latest Pixel family is out in the open, it's only natural to speculate whether it can stand its own against the Samsung Galaxy S26 family.

You might already own a Galaxy S25, or maybe you have a Pixel 10 Pro. Regardless of your reasons for curiosity, I'm here to help bring to light the key details of the Google Pixel 11 Pro vs. Samsung Galaxy S26 battle. Here's how both phones compare.

Google Pixel 11 Pro vs. Samsung Galaxy S26: Hardware that delivers style and substance

The Pixel 11 Pro looks nearly identical to the Pixel 10 Pro, except for the colorful HiLight LED in the camera bar.

Much like Google's upper-tier phones, the Galaxy S26 also remains largely unchanged appearance-wise when compared to the Galaxy S25. The only difference is a slightly larger screen, from 6.2 inches to 6.3 inches, which is the same as the Pixel 11 Pro.

In addition to screen sizes, they also share an IP68 rating, and both have poor PWM rates.

The Pixel 11 Pro has a 4,850mAh battery with 30W wired charging and 25W Qi2.2 PixelSnap wireless charging. The Galaxy S26, on the other hand, has a smaller 4,300mAh battery, slower 25W wired charging, and non-magnetic wireless charging. The S26 also lacks mmWave 5G, UWB, and Bluetooth 6. It does, however, have a beastly Snapdragon processor with Vulkan support, so it easily beats the newer Tensor G6 chipset at heavy-duty tasks like gaming.

Photography is a pleasant experience with both phones, but the cameras on the S26 are old. Meanwhile, the Pixel 11 Pro has been upgraded with larger sensors that offer a wider field of view, with the main setup consisting of a 50MP main, 48MP ultrawide, and 48MP 5x telephoto lenses, and the front snapper featuring a new 42MP ultrawide lens. The S26 features a lower-specced camera setup consisting of 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP 3x telephoto, and 12MP selfie lenses.

The 11 Pro finally starts at 256GB for the base model with 12GB RAM, and comes in 512GB/1TB variants with 16GB RAM. The S26 comes in 256GB/512GB with 12GB RAM.

Unfortunately, these upgrades come at an added cost, and the Pixel 11 Pro starts at $1,099, while the S26 starts at $899.

Google Pixel 11 Pro vs. Samsung Galaxy S26: Software and AI features

Samsung and Google both promise seven years of OS and security updates for their flagships. The S26 comes with One UI 8.5 w/Android 16 installed, while the 11 Pro comes with Android 17, so you get one extra Android update with the Pixel.

Gemini is ever-present in both phones, as Samsung and Google have strengthened ties. Many AI features will be available on both phones, including Circle to Search, Gemini Live, and agentic automation.

With the death of Samsung Messages, Google Messages is the default texting app on the S26, meaning both phones get Magic Compose and other Gemini features like sticker creation.

Samsung users enjoy features like Samsung DeX, Now Nudge (the Samsung equivalent of Magic Cue/Proactive Intelligence on Pixel), AI Select, Creative Studio, Audio Eraser, Galaxy AI Eraser, and Photo Assist. Pixel users get similar features, including a desktop mode, Best Take, Camera Coach, Audio Eraser, and Magic Eraser.

The Pixel 11 Pro also debuts some new tools and Gemini features that are currently exclusive to the Pixel 11 series. This includes Instant Night Sight, Camera Look, Gemini Intelligence and its capability to handle "multi-step task" actions, Rambler with its new sign-to-text feature, location-based insights in Gemini, and Magic Capture.

Google Pixel 11 Pro vs. Samsung Galaxy S26: Which small phone is better value?

Unless you're an avid mobile gamer who runs heavy-duty games and apps all the time, the Pixel 11 Pro is the better phone for most people. Sure, it costs $200 more than the S26, but you also get a more holistic smartphone experience, superior cameras, faster charging, and one additional year of software upgrades. It also supports magnetic Qi2 and HiLight, and its customizable notifications add a unique selling point.

In his review, our reviewer Brady Snyder made an astute observation about the value of the S26, stating that he found it difficult to recommend the pricier S26 Ultra, but even then, the Ultra is better value than the S26. I echo his sentiment and only recommend the S26 with a good $150-$200 discount.

Every year, buying a Pixel feels a little bit like making a deal with Darth Vader. What started as an incredible-sounding concept slowly became less desirable. Even when something gets better, something else seems to get worse. I can almost hear Google telling me to pray it doesn't alter the deal any further.

Case in point: the Google Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL. This year, you'll get less base RAM, a slightly smaller battery, and a GPU that's still not particularly capable. But you'll also get amazing new features like Magic Capture, Creator suite, instant Night Sight, live translation for videos, and the new Rambler voice keyboard.

Are those enough to make us forget about these devices' shortcomings? In some ways, absolutely, as Pixels are designed to appeal to the masses (who often don't care as much about raw performance or other metrics), and we were initially impressed with many of the new Gemini features arriving on the Pixel 11 series during our hands-on.

However, a year with the Pixel 10 Pro and more time with the Pixel 11 Pro have shown me that Google is more focused on figuring out its next big AI toy than on putting good work into creating truly great phones.

Starting off on the wrong foot

Last year, Google removed the physical SIM tray in U.S. models, and this year brings about its own reductions. The entry Pixel 11 Pro and Pro XL models ship with 12GB of RAM to start, 4GB less than last year, and the XL is $100 more than last year on top of that. RAMageddon is certainly causing problems Google can't control, but it still feels bad to get something worse for a higher price.

Both models feature smaller batteries and, somehow, slower charging, despite claiming otherwise. Data from our parent company's Future Labs backs up this claim (see below). Google also no longer includes a year of Gemini Pro with these phones, instead giving just six months of the service to Pixel owners.

And while Tensor G6 is supposed to be a bit more efficient, our battery tests show near-identical battery life between equivalent Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro models. Tensor G6 is most certainly faster than the G5 in many areas, but overall performance still puts this chip several years behind the competition.

To make matters worse, while the PowerVR GPU here performs better than the one in the Pixel 10, it still doesn't support the latest Vulkan API, meaning games that require Vulkan for advanced performance or graphics (like Minecraft's Vibrant Visuals setting) will give you worse visuals on a Pixel 11 Pro series phone. This is particularly disappointing because this year's GPU performs much better than last year's.

I also can't say I've found better cell coverage on these phones despite the change in modem. My calls get dropped in the same areas as the Pixel 10, while phones from Motorola and Honor (for example) hang on to the signal without issue.

And, of course, there's the display. Google loves to highlight how color-accurate and insanely bright its displays are, but the company's use of low-frequency PWM dimming continues to make its phones unusable for flicker-sensitive people year after year.

None of these things would be quite as egregious if Google weren't charging as much as Samsung or Apple, but the reality is that these are too expensive for what you get.

Experience over performance

Pixel has long focused on delivering a unique experience that trumps raw performance, and most of the new features fit that mantra. Magic Capture, a new camera mode that automatically takes pictures for you, feels like the first time the term "Magic" was correctly applied to one of Google's Gemini experiments.

It's an upgraded version of what Honor introduced two and a half years ago, and it feels truly magical to use. Open the camera, select Magic Capture, tap start, and you'll soon have a video plus truly amazing pictures to share. I've used it many times over the past week, and it never gets old.

Creator Suite is a godsend for anyone making videos for social media, as it places the script right on screen for you to read while recording, plus additional tools that help with editing. Instant Night Sight is the perfect execution of a feature Google has excelled at for years, and the difference in capture speed in low-light situations compared to any other phone on the market is truly impressive.

Hearing the Pixel real-time translate someone's voice (and language) in a video into one I understand is magic. And while Rambler isn't a Pixel 11 exclusive feature, it's still the evolution of voice typing that many have wanted for years.

Now, while I had high hopes for HiLight, the feature is mostly useless. That glowing LED on the back lights up for phone calls, messages, and when you talk to Gemini, but that's it. There's no customization, making this an inferior version of Nothing's Glyph Interface. Likewise, Gemini Proactive Intelligence didn't seem to do anything of note for me, much like last year's Magic Cue feature.

One of the highlights of this release is a set of new cameras, all of which show notable improvements over the Pixel 10 Pro series. The main camera produces very fine detail, aided by Google's willingness to include grain in the image. I rather prefer this look, as it feels a bit like looking at film rather than an image from a digital sensor. That said, the colors are often too muted for my taste.

Telephoto performance is somewhat disappointing, but it has its highlights. While I can see some improvements over the Pixel 10 Pro's poor telephoto experience, it's still not as good as most Chinese phones' telephoto cameras (although it has a slight edge over the iPhone 17 Pro series). The new 120x zoom is surprisingly effective in some scenarios, though it's not something you'll use regularly.

Google also finally seems to have figured out how to make a food portrait mode, and I can happily report that the terrible artifacts and digital noise that appeared in Pixel portrait photos for the past several years are gone. Plus, the selfie camera no longer has that awful, compressed-image look that Pixel 10 Pro selfies suffered from, so overall, a very good camera upgrade year.

Should you buy it?

I can only genuinely recommend getting a Pixel 11 Pro or Pro XL for the Magic Capture feature. Google hasn't said anything about it coming to other Pixels, which makes sense given Tensor G6's improved TPU. Aside from this one amazing feature, however, the cost of these Pixels far outweighs the benefits.

But in addition to the downgrades, Google has simply given away too many Pixel-exclusive features to other phones (such as Gemini Automation and Rambler). I can't help but feel like it cheapens what the unique Pixel experience used to be. Maybe next year, Google.

What you need to know

• A report claims that Google is preparing to exit China in 2027, moving its Pixel line production to India and Vietnam.
• This move will take everything Pixel-related (phones, watches, buds), as Google is reportedly becoming confident in this decision.
• The post also highlights that Google wants to push its Pixel shipment momentum in 2026 to 13 million units, which would be a ~8% increase at the lowest.

Changes are afoot for Google next year, as reports claim the company is preparing to move all Pixel production out of China.

Earlier this morning (Aug 18), Nikkei Asia reported that Google "plans to stop" producing its Pixel products in China by 2027 (via 9to5Google). It has been reported that Google plans to move its Pixel production to India and Vietnam. This move isn't coming out of left field. The publication states Google ran what could be considered a "trial run" of this future with the Pixel 11.

The latest flagship was produced in Vietnam, and that's supposedly given Google the confidence boost it needed to prepare the complete shift. This Pixel production move will involve Google's entire portfolio of Pixel phones, watches, and earbuds. Information obtained by Nikkei Asia suggests Google has "no burden" in making this move, as its Pixel portfolio is not sold in China. What's more, Google is reportedly actively chasing more Pixel shipment momentum in 2026 off the back of the Pixel 11 series.

The publication highlights Google's increased "expectations," with Pixel shipments forecast to rise by 8% to 10% in 2026. The company shipped roughly 12 million Pixel units in 2025, but it hopes to reach ~13 million for 2026.

Google's placement in the world

Google finds itself in an interesting position in the smartphone world. It was incredibly popular in Japan last year, right before the Pixel 10 launch, but that's not where we're headed right now. A few months ago, Omdia reported that the U.S. phone market in Q1 2026 struggled. The market dipped by 3% YoY, and that was attributed to rising memory and storage costs. Regarding Google, the company ranked fourth among top-selling phone companies, behind Apple, Samsung, and Motorola (first to third).

Google shipped 0.8 million units, accounting for 3% of the market. If we jump to Q2, the market declined by 4%; however, Samsung and Apple were the only ones to gain ground. Now, this report was more on a global scale. A scale on which Google didn't even crack the top five. It'll be worth watching if Google can reach 13 million shipped phones following the Pixel 11, given the price increases.

It's official: Google's 2026 flagship lineup has arrived, and there are already plenty of Pixel 11 preorder deals that could make the Android phones cheap (or even free) if you play your cards right.

The catch is that most of these offers require some sort of upgrade through your wireless carrier, so folks looking for a no-strings promotion may feel like they're out of luck.

Fortunately, Best Buy has you covered. From now until the phones' official release on August 20th, you can preorder the Google Pixel 11 and score up to $700 of trade-in credit AND a free $100 gift card.

That effectively makes the unlocked phone just $99, no strings attached and no confusing contract to worry about. 

Naturally, trading in an old Pixel phone will earn you the most savings, but Best Buy is also accepting devices from Samsung and Apple as part of its preorder promotion. The $100 gift card is included no matter what, which is nice if you're also looking for accessories to pair with your new smartphone.  

• Best Buy's 60th Anniversary Sale is LIVE: see the full list of deals

Sleek and versatile, the base model Google Pixel 11 comes equipped with the Tensor G6 chipset, 12GB of RAM, and a gorgeous 6.3-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. As usual with Pixel devices, you also get fantastic cameras, all of the latest AI-boosted software features, and seven years of OS and security upgrades guaranteed. It's not a dramatic upgrade from its predecessor, the Pixel 10, but if you missed last year's model, the Pixel 11 is the device to buy. 

Need a bit more power? It's worth mentioning that Best Buy is running similar deals on the Google Pixel 11 Pro and super-sized Pixel 11 Pro XL, increasing the potential trade-in discount to $1,000 and upping the gift card balance to $200 with all orders. 

Of course, this Pixel 11 preorder deal makes the most sense if you have something to trade in, but if you (like me) own a drawer full of old or broken smartphones somewhere in your home, it's worth using Best Buy's trade-in tool to see how much you can save. What do you have to lose? 

Perhaps the best part of owning a Pixel is that the phone is better a year in than on the day it launched. Google has very successfully made a name for itself in the industry with Pixel Drops, a set of quarterly updates delivered to Pixel phones alongside monthly security updates and annual operating system updates.

After a year with the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL, I can confidently say this phone is better now than it was last August, but that comes with some caveats along the way. Considering the rising prices of electronics these days, it very likely makes more sense to buy a Pixel 10 this year than a Pixel 11.

While the Pixel 11 is launching with several new features that might make Pixel 10 owners jealous, there is very little doubt in my mind that the vast majority, if not all, of these new features will come to the Pixel 10 Pro XL.

But this past year hasn't been without its problems for the Pixel 10 series, and a series of very serious, problematic software updates follows a trend Google simply shouldn't be proud of. One of the reasons I didn't recommend the Pixel 10 series last year was its bad software update track record, and Google did nothing to help that image this year. Let's explore the best and worst of the Pixel 10 after one year, shall we?

Start with the bad

I'm going to get the bad out of the way because it's really bad. Ever since the Pixel 6, Pixel phones have been a bit... buggy. Most of the time, a reboot fixes the issues, or, in a worst-case scenario, you have to wait a month or two for Google to patch them. But March 2025 marked the start of a trend in the wrong direction. I even wrote a guide on how to roll back your firmware at the time.

Somehow, the Pixel 10 series may have had the most update issues I can recall with a Pixel phone to date. For the first several months, Google continuously worked on weird graphical issues for the Pixel 10. Touch responsiveness and battery drain issues followed in January, and the patch even completely broke Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

And then the really big problems began. Google's March 2026 update seemed to finally put an end to the GPU issues users had dealt with since launch, but it also bricked many Pixel 10 units. So many users reported the problem that the initial bug report hit the maximum number of comments, while the follow-up report is now 230 comments deep as of August 10.

This very scenario is something I was concerned about going into the Pixel 10's release, and Google has done little to assuage my fears about recommending its devices. The problem mainly seems to come down to Google's update cadence. With very rare exceptions, Pixels get an OS update every month. In my opinion, this is too much and doesn't allow enough time for proper QA testing.

I wrote as much about Meta Quest headsets in April 2025, as the same kinds of issues kept popping up with every monthly software update. Quarterly or even bimonthly software updates make much more sense and would certainly give Google more time to test devices properly before rolling them out to the public.

At this point, there is zero likelihood that I would recommend Pixels to anyone, given Google's abysmal track record of software update stability. It's time for Google to take this seriously and fix a brand-killing problem.

Mellow it out a bit

Google has shied away from promoting its phones as top performers, and I said as much in my Pixel 10 Pro review. Some games are fine on this phone, while others aren't. That hasn't changed at all in a year.

But we did see some software changes toned down a bit compared to Google's initial marketing. Pixel Daily Hub was removed just a few weeks after launch, and while Google said the feature would come back better than ever, that never happened. Instead, it looks like we got Gemini Daily Brief, a feature I enjoy using every morning, but not one that's Pixel-exclusive, and it's also not quite the same as what Daily Hub was.

Google also removed Pixel Studio, the AI-generated image creation suite that shipped with every Pixel 10. Ironically, Google did this right before Apple announced an identical AI-powered image generation app for iOS 27.

Now for some better news

If you made it this far (and I'm impressed you did, to be honest), then you're about to get a lot happier about the Pixel 10's future. Let's start with Magic Cue, a feature hyped during the Pixel 10's launch that turned out to be far less exciting than most hoped for. Google put major work into the feature, and it's being relaunched as Gemini Proactive Intelligence with the Pixel 11 series and Android 17.

Google also debuted Material 3 Expressive in the Pixel 10 Pro's first big update, further improving the look and feel of Pixels, with additional apps and settings windows getting the update a few months later. Google then debuted AI-powered notification summaries in October 2025, and Pixel Theme Packs a month later.

Subsequent updates gave us custom AI-generated icons, followed by a working desktop mode and a brand new notification organizer. Then, in 2026, we got Gemini automation (albeit not a Pixel-exclusive feature), lock screen widgets, and the rather awesome Comfort View Filters to reduce visual stimulation.

Yeah, it's been a monumental year of jam-packed updates, often delivered via Pixel Drops each quarter. Assuming you weren't one of the people who experienced major problems with your Pixel 10 after an update, you were probably extremely happy with Google's support for its phones.

Which brings me back to what I said in the intro: the Pixel 10 Pro is a better phone today than it was on launch day, and that's not just because Google introduced a boatload of new features. It's also because the company wasn't shy about pulling back features that weren't worthwhile and then reintroducing them when they were improved.

Here's hoping that the problematic updates we've seen over the past year for this phone are gone and, in their place, updates we can actually look forward to installing. Otherwise, I'm not entirely convinced people will want to keep returning to the Pixel brand.

TL;DR: This T-Mobile deal will give you a free Google Pixel 11 Pro XL when you add a line with the Experience Beyond plan. You'll still have to pay for the wireless, any applicable sales tax, and the $35 activation fee. 

If you want the ultimate Pixel phone experience, the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL is the device for you. This powerful flagship was just unveiled last week with a $1,299.99 price tag, but you can already get the phone for FREE from T-Mobile when you add a line with the Experience Beyond plan.

That said, as with most carrier deals, "FREE" simply means that you won't pay the retail cost for the phone. You will still have to cover any sales tax and activation fees, not to mention the monthly cost of the phone plan. So is this Google Pixel 11 preorder deal really worth it? Let's break it down. 

• Check out my guide to the best Google Pixel 11 preorder deals

For starters, it's important to note that Experience Beyond is T-Mobile's most expensive unlimited plan, which is why the company can afford to give you a $1,299 smartphone for free when you sign up. 

The plan starts around $100/month for a single line, although you can drop that price down considerably by using AutoPay and adding multiple lines at once. Adding four lines, for instance, could drop the price of each line down to $53.75/month. 

The good news is that you get a lot of bang for your buck. In addition to unlimited talk, text, and premium data on T-Mo's vast 5G network, the Experience Beyond plan gets you an unlimited mobile hotspot, a ton of international benefits, and free subscriptions to Netflix and Hulu. You also get a five-year price guarantee. 

Is this deal right for you?

If you want one of the best unlimited plans in the business and you don't mind paying for it, definitely. For folks who can afford it, the Experience Beyond plan is a fantastic choice, especially when you get a powerful Android phone out of the deal. 

That being said, if you want to save money on your phone bill, there are plenty of other Pixel 11 deals that might be more cost-effective. For example, T-Mobile will give you the base model Google Pixel 11 for free when you add a line with "most plans" on the carrier's site, and that includes the more-affordable Essentials tier (which starts at just $55 per month for a single line). 

If you prefer the simplicity of unlocked phones, it's also worth mentioning that retailers like Amazon and Best Buy will give you a free gift card worth up to $200 when you preorder a Pixel 11 phone. Many of these stores also offer trade-in discounts if you have an old or broken phone lying around. 

In conclusion, there are a ton of ways to save money on a Google Pixel 11 ahead of the phones' August 20th release date — but if you were looking to sign up for T-Mobile's best unlimited plan anyway, now's your chance to get some great wireless and a great new phone in one fell swoop.