It's finally here: Prime Day 2026 is live, showcasing some of the best tech deals this side of Black Friday. This year's sale is particularly notable for Google fans, as the retailer is slashing prices on many of the best Pixel devices ever built, from phones and wearables to wireless earbuds.

Needless to say, I've dropped a selection of my favorite Google Pixel deals from Prime Day 2026 into this guide. Just remember that the majority of the best Amazon offers will be exclusive to Prime members. Haven't signed up yet? No worries: Amazon is offering a 30-day free trial that lets you enjoy all of the benefits of a Prime membership without paying a dime. You can even cancel at any time, which means you can sign up today, do a bunch of Prime Day shopping, and delete your account with zero hassle.

Prime Day quick links

• Phones: major savings on Pixel, Samsung, and beyond
• Wearables: up to 50% off Garmin, Galaxy Watch, and Fitbit
• Tablets: Galaxy Tab, Kindle, and Amazon Fire tablets from $50
• Chromebooks: discounts on ASUS, HP, and Lenovo
• Smart Home: up to 60% off Alexa devices
• Headphones/earbuds: huge discounts on Beats, Sony, and more
• Smart TVs: cheap smart TVs from $69.99

Google Pixel deals

Prime Day FAQ

When is Prime Day 2026?

Amazon has officially confirmed that Prime Day 2026 will be begin on June 23rd and run through June 26th. This means that you have four full days to take advantage of the members-only sale event.

Do I need to be a Prime member to shop during Amazon Prime Day?

Although select discounts may be available to the general public, the vast majority of deals during Prime Day are exclusive to Amazon Prime members. Haven't joined yet? Sign up for Amazon's 30-day free trial to enjoy all of the benefits of a Prime membership without paying a cent. The cost of a membership is $14.99 per month once the trial period is up, but you can cancel at any time with zero hassle.

Schools are out for the summer, which means it's only a matter of time before back-to-school shopping is underway. Prime Day is the perfect way to get a head start, and I'm taking advantage of it by upgrading my younger brother's aging smartphone to the Google Pixel 10, which is currently on sale.

The Pixel 10 isn't yet a year old, and it originally launched at $799 with plenty of notable upgrades over its predecessor. A rather steep 31% discount gets you a pretty sweet deal on the Pixel 10, bringing it down to just $549. For a high school kid, that's a pretty reasonable price for a new smartphone, especially one as good as the Pixel 10.

• Prime Day returns June 23-26: see the full list of deals

✅Recommended if: You want a fun AI phone with a great camera, first-class software support, and iPhone features like AirDrop support and Qi2 magnetic charging.

❌Skip this deal if: You prefer larger smartphones or don't want to miss out on features reserved for the Pixel 10 Pro.

I've been using the Pixel 10 on and off since it launched last year. While I've been pleased with previous base model Pixels, the Pixel 10 is by far the best Google has produced. It comes with a triple-camera setup that includes a 50MP primary sensor and a 5x telephoto camera that delivers some pretty impressive zoom shots.

The Tensor G5 may not be the fastest chip on the block, but it's more than enough for a high school teen. My brother is 16 years old and has been using a OnePlus Nord for years. While he's not too concerned about having the latest smartphone, it's probably time for him to upgrade. He mostly just plays games and watches videos, but I think he would get a kick out of the improved camera and fun AI features.

And because he tends to keep smartphones for a long time, the seven-year upgrade promise means he can keep the Pixel for years to come and still get many of the latest features and security updates. His OnePlus phone stopped getting updates years ago, making his need for a new phone even greater.

For anyone looking to upgrade their high schooler before the 2026-27 school year begins and not wanting to spend an arm and a leg, the Pixel 10 fits the bill pretty well. Alongside the recent update to Android 17, the Pixel 10's newest features basically turn it into the iPhone of Android. RCS makes messaging effortless with high-quality images and other features; AirDrop support makes sharing media simple and quick, and Qi2 support means you can use many of the same MagSafe chargers and accessories.

So even if you're an iPhone family, a Pixel 10 means your high schooler doesn't have to miss out.

What you need to know

• A recent leak suggests Google is working on a new memory-based feature for Pixel phones, known as "Audio Memory."
• While reports claim it would capture music you've heard, it might also keep its ears open for "important conversations" and transcribe them.
• Google has a few "memory" features for its AI, such as Personal Intelligence and "personal context" in the Gemini app.

A report states that, after some digging, a new Pixel feature was spotted, which could let your phone "remember" what you've heard.

The report was posted by 9to5Google, stating Google is working on an "Audio Memory" feature for its Pixels. One major Audio Memory function that was discovered is "Music Recognition." This isn't a new capability for Pixels. Many of Google's phones can keep their "ears" open for music, so it can have its name available for the user. Think of it like Shazam, but it's always on.

For Audio Memory, it will function mostly the same, as it'll provide "info about songs playing nearby displays on your device's lock screen," per the leaked description. Users can tap these logged titles to bring them to Pixel's Now Playing app. However, 9to5 kept digging and found that the latest version of Android System Intelligence for the Pixel 10 held breadcrumbs about additional uses.

Reportedly, Google plans for Audio Memory to "keep track of what you hear throughout your day." This could include "your important conversations." There wasn't much else about this rumor, as it's still early. However, the publication assumes this feature (if enabled) would transcribe conversations you're having to "generate notes."

How broad its coverage will be is still unknown. As the post notes, there's a chance that this could only apply to phone calls.

Pixel "Memory"

"Remembering" has become commonplace for Google and its AI services. Last year, the company updated Gemini with "memory" that leveraged the user's "personal context." The latter concerns old chats you've had with the AI. If you were talking about new shoes or a place to travel to this summer, and you're asking about it again, Gemini would "remember" old conversations for better answers.

What joined this was "Temporary Chats," which let users ask quick, one-time questions that it doesn't want affecting Gemini in any way. Users can turn off Gemini's memory for your personal context. It seems wise to believe Google would produce something similar for Audio Memory, especially since having your phone "always listening"—or remembering—might not sit well. On the other hand, we have Personal Intelligence.

This has been talked about quite a bit these past few months. Gemini can use the user's photos, emails, and more to understand their interests. When you ask a specific question about a date you need to remember, Gemini would, for example, dip into your emails for you. We still need to see Google's true intentions with Audio Memory, but it might sit on a "useful" front like these other memory-based features.

Android Central's Take

I could really see Audio Memory useful for people who frequent meetings or for reporters. It's like always having your Recorder app active. If I were to hazard a guess, I'd figure Google would go this route. Transcriptions and all. It's still early, so maybe I'm way off base.

With stable Android 17 finally rolling out to Pixel devices, there are a ton of new features for us to try out. During The Android Show, Google highlighted new social-media-focused features, and now we're finally getting a look at some of them, which aim to enhance your experience creating content for apps like Instagram.

One such feature is screen reactions, a new built-in capability that removes some of the effort that would normally require a third-party app or fancy app techniques. And I admit, for a relatively simple feature, it's quite ingenious, and I'm surprised Google had the wherewithal to launch it with Android 17.

Screen Reactions is a surprisingly effective feature

If you're on Instagram or TikTok, then you've probably seen them. Many of my favorite content creators react to news, images, or other videos by inserting a small floating video of themselves. Reaction videos like this are quite effective, as they let viewers see both the original content and the reaction, and sometimes the reaction is better or funnier than the original.

I'm a casual social media user, but I have dabbled in making Reels every now and then. However, given my limited knowledge of creating social media content, this type of reaction video has always eluded me. And I know there are built-in functions to help create these types of videos, like a virtual green screen, but I've not wanted to take the time to figure it out, though I'm sure it's a fairly easy process.

Now, I don't have to figure it out. Because Screen Reactions is built into the screen record function on my Pixel 10, creating this type of reaction video just takes a few taps, without futzing with different app methods to achieve the same effect. And you can edit the clips on-device or put finishing touches in Instagram or TikTok. It's not perfect, but it feels like it just lowered the barrier to entry for anyone wanting to create content on social media.

How to use Screen Reactions on your Pixel 10

1. Swipe down from the top of your screen to open the Quick Settings menu.

2. Tap the Screen Record button. You may need to edit your Quick Settings menu and add the button if it's not already there.

3. Toggle on Show selfie camera. This will automatically turn on the Record microphone option.

4. Tap the color palette icon to enable a color background. Tap any color to show the background or tap it again to turn it off.

5. Tap Start to begin recording.

6. When you're done, tap the live notification and tap Stop to end recording.

7. You can go straight to recording another clip, delete the clip you just recorded, or edit the clip to your liking using Google Photos editing features.

Once you're done with each clip, you can edit them together in the Google Photos app or use a third-party app such as Instagram and TikTok to add finishing touches.

Things to keep in mind

Screen Reactions is a cool feature, but it's not perfect, and there are some limitations worth noting. The first thing you should know is that it only works when screen recording is set to record the entire screen; it won't work if you just want to record a specific app. That means anything that appears on the screen will be captured in the recording, including when you adjust the volume, open the notification shade, tap the live notification to stop the recording, etc.

It makes sense why it would be the entire screen, as your reaction could very well involve using your phone and diffing into its settings or switching to multiple apps, but it's just something to keep in mind.

My first instinct was to try recording a Screen Reaction on a full-screen Reel to get cleaner video with fewer Instagram UI elements. For some reason, Reels won't appear if you try this method; you'll just see a black screen and your selfie video. TikTok's Clear Display does work, however, so that may be an alternative, or you could just download the Reel or TikTok if that option's available.

Another downside of Screen Reaction recording the entire screen is that you'll also see your screen recording status icon in the notification shade. I don't know about you, but this looks kind of tacky, and I wish there were a way to leave this out of the recording. It's probably the one way Instagram or TikTok's green screen effects are better than the built-in function.

Perhaps an updated version of Screen Record could include an option to hide these extra on-screen elements from the recording, ensuring the video looks as clean as if you recorded it with Instagram or TikTok's tools.

It would also be nice if stopping the recording wasn't a two-step process of taping the live notification at the top of the screen and then the stop button. Google should place a stop or pause button somewhere more accessible so I'm not reaching in front of the selfie camera to stop recording.

Still, despite some quirky and questionable UI choices, I think this is a great feature that takes away much of the complications of making a reaction video for social media. If you have a Pixel smartphone, you should give it a try. I can't wait to see how other OEMs implement this feature when Android 17 rolls out to other Android phones.

What you need to know

• Google detailed its June security patch for Pixel phones shortly after Android 17 and its Pixel Drop went live.
• The company is still focused on fixing lingering display problems, as well as battery charging issues that weren't quite solved in May.
• Android 17 brings a few new features for Pixels, but it also bolsters security and threat detection.

Google's busy week continues as a new security patch is rolling out for its Pixels, carrying a series of fixes for the latest software.

Android 17 launched this week, and Pixels are receiving a June Drop loaded with features. Now, a June security patch has been detailed with a substantial number of fixes for Pixel phones. The update is rolling out for Pixel 6 and newer devices, marked as vCP2A.260605.012 for global units. Google's extensive patch notes clue us into several "Display & Graphics" issue fixes that have plagued Pixel phones for the past few months.

The two fixes that apply only to the Pixel 10 series in this category involve a strange "white flickering dot" and "graphical errors" during standard operations. A third graphics fix concerns the Pixel 8 series, Pixel Fold, and the Pixel Tablet. Google says it's rolling out a solution for a device freeze occurring when connected to an external display.

The Pixel camera has been an issue for Pixel users recently, too. The Pixel 9 and 10 series are receiving a fix for a system crash. Fixes for camera app freezes and crashes are also included in this patch. On the flip side, Pixel battery and power consumption problems have continued to plague Google. This month, a slow wireless charging speed issue should be fixed, alongside a fix for failed wireless and wired charging drivers "during device setup."

Unstable audio was another focus for Google that's now being fixed, alongside two problems impacting app crashes and Backup settings.

A laundry list

As usual, this Pixel patch is rolling out gradually to users. We might not all see it at the same time, so be on the lookout for it to hit your phone soon.

We've gone back-to-back now with patches aimed at critical charging and display problems for Google's Pixels. In May, slow wireless charging issues were a primary concern for the company. At the time, users reported experiencing slowed speeds between 75% and 80% battery. Curiously, this same issue was credited for the issues affecting Pixels in June, too, meaning the problem wasn't completely eradicated.

Hopefully these fixes clean up whatever's remaining. Fuzzy, frozen, and strange display artifacts were problematic for the Pixel 10 series in May.

On the bright side, Google's June patch joins the huge Pixel Drop. Android 17 is finally here, and the company has started rolling out the new OS and these new Pixel features to users. "Bubbles" and the "Bubble Bar" are two new features for Pixels and folds, offering a new way to easily multitask between apps. "Screen reactions" lets you place a selfie video of yourself over a screen recording to simulate a green screen without the extra gear.

Android Central's Take

Extensive fixes can often follow Google's Pixel Drops. I feel like it's more now considering Android 17 is here, and any lingering issues from the last minutes of testing are getting fixed with it. Here's to smooth sailing for any users with Pixels affected by crashes and bugs.

What you need to know

• Google's June Pixel Drop brings a few new features to its Pixel phones and folds, such as "Screen reactions" that integrates selfie videos with screen recordings in Android 17.
• Another Android 17-based feature is "Bubbles," giving Pixel users new ways to hop between apps, which is also known as "Bubble Bar" on Folds.
• Google expands several features to more Pixel phones and users in more countries, alongside an "Emergency Detection" update for Pixel Watch.

Google's Pixels are updating this week as a massive June Drop heads to the brand's phones and watch.

A shared press release breaks down the June Pixel Drop, which will begin rolling out today (June 16) to Pixel phones and the Pixel Watch. What makes this more exciting is that Android 17 is officially here, and it's rolling out to Pixel phones. This is important for the Pixel Drop, as Google highlights "Screen reactions." Google says selfie videos are now integrated with your screen recordings, meaning users can create a "green screen without needing other apps."

This is becoming available on all Pixel phones and folds with Android 17.

Elsewhere, "Bubbles" are the newest feature rolling out to all Android 17 Pixel phones and folds. With Bubbles, users can "turn apps like your browser, calendar, and Gemini into floating bubbles over your main screen." However, eligible Pixel Folds are getting a "Bubble Bar." This is a new UI that brings organization to users' phones, enabling quick access from one bubble to another.

This month's Pixel Drop involves a few notable feature expansions, too. Conversational photo editing in Google Photos is rolling out to Pixel devices in Germany, the UK, France, Spain, and Italy. Now, users in these countries can lean on Gemini to make quick photo edits without having to dive into the tools themselves (Pixel 6 and newer). Voice Translate is expanding to the Pixel 10a, while Quick Share's compatibility with AirDrop extends to the Pixel 9a and 8a.

Manual Call Screen lets users avoid unwanted interactions by telling their phone's Call Screen to answer for them. This feature is headed to India in June. Google says users in the country can expect it on the Pixel 10 series, including the Pixel 10 Pro Fold.

Magic Cue's contextual suggestions while you're operating your phone expand to "additional messaging apps." However, Google states this feature is still mainly supported on the Pixel 10 series. Lastly, we're seeing "Take a Message" appear on Pixel 6 and newer phones in "more markets." For India, this is restricted to the Pixel 10 series. Google adds that this expansion is joined by "Custom Greetings," enabling users to record an outgoing message when you've missed or declined a call.

Your device will still provide real-time transcriptions.

Pixel AI

Google's AI has taken a bit of a backseat in June's Drop, but there are two updates you should know about: Gemini Omni and Lyria 3. Gemini Omni took the stage during I/O 2026, giving us a pretty good preview of the AI's video editing and generative capabilities. Today, Google says Gemini Omni is rolling out on "all devices with the Gemini app for Gemini Pro users." Users can chat with Gemini, telling it what they'd like it to create, and it will provide a "high-quality" result.

Lyria 3 is an AI built around music using your text prompts or submitted images. Users can tell Gemini the style they're going for, as well as vocals and tempo. This is rolling out to all Android 17 Pixel phones and folds.

Pixel Watch comes in clutch

Emergency Detection is the next step for user safety for Google's Pixel Watch. It states that its June Drop will integrate emergency sharing into major features, such as Car Crash, Fall, and Loss of Pulse detection. Google says that if your Pixel Watch detects a "severe event," it will contact emergency services and alert your chosen contacts. Users will find in-depth customization tools for who gets alerted if a severe event is detected, and for which type of event.

Users can expect this feature to begin rolling out on the Pixel Watch on June 16 and beyond.

Android Central's Take

Google's Pixel Drops are always interesting to sift through and see what's new. Many of these features hold a bit more excitement since they coincide with Android 17's launch. Bubbles are a pretty interesting way to manage your apps. It's basically another multitasking tool that's a bit easier to manage. The expanded features is also a plus for users awaiting them, especially that Quick Share/AirDrop expansion.

What you need to know

• School is out, and Google's rolling out a parental control update for parents with kids who have phones, as we prepare to download Android 17.
• In the Settings menu, these controls bring a daily limit, app limits, and downtime schedule.
• Parents can also select a rating limit for apps on the Play Store, so if you want the highest restriction, "E" for everyone is ideal.

Amid Google's already packed Tuesday with a Pixel Drop and Android 17, now the company is detailing new parental controls.

This afternoon (June 16), Google highlighted a series of parental control updates for parents managing the summer with kids who have phones. As Android 17 makes its rounds to Pixels, Google says users will find an updated selection of Android Parental Controls on phones that receive this upgrade. Located in the Settings menu, parents can "set the amount of screen time your child can spend on a device each day to help establish healthy habits."

Outside of this screen time, parents will have access to "downtime schedules." This puts a limiter on your child's device, ensuring they're not watching YouTube videos all night. Google states downtime schedules will "automatically lock the device." Google Play Store gets in on these parental controls. Parents will find age ratings similar to those for a game (remember "E" for Everyone?).

Similarly, the "Everyone" setting is the Play Store's "most restrictive" setting. Controls include "Everyone 10 Plus," "Teen," "Mature 17 Plus," "Adult only 18 Plus," and "Allow all, including unrated." As you'd imagine, this final option is the least restrictive, allowing users to see anything and everything on the Play Store.

With so many apps, parents can set limits on app usage on their child's device. Moreover, parents can block apps entirely to ensure they're never opened.

Android's parental controls advance

Google gives parents a heads-up, stating that their controls can be protected by a PIN. What's more, these controls can directly tie into Android's Family Link. This opens a new series of options, such as School Time, which helps make sure your child is focusing on their studies and not scrolling in class. Family Link also brings purchase approvals from the Play Store, location alerts, and more.

These updates should begin rolling out soon.

It's interesting to hear a reference to School Time, as it's a bit of an older feature Google introduced for parents. This gives parents the ability to control when their child's phone should lock down and for how long. Considering school is five days a week, you can decide to activate it Monday through Friday from, say, 8 AM to 2:15 PM. Through Family Link, parents can see the apps their child uses during school. Kids have the ability to see a list of what apps they can use, which parents decide beforehand.

Parents can even curate a list of contacts their kid is allowed to text or call during school hours.

What you need to know

• Google has reportedly spoken up about the bootloop issues affecting several Pixel series on its Issue Tracker.
• The company is encouraging users to submit a proper support ticket and to mention the bootloop issue, as a fix seemingly varies from device to device.
• Users in March said their devices couldn't make it past the initial "G" logo when starting, and this has continued in April and May.

Pixel users have been grappling with a stifling bootloop issue after Google's recent updates over the past few months. The company is now reportedly coming forward with suggestions for users.

There is quite a lengthy thread on Google's Issue Tracker full of reports from various Pixel users about this bootloop (via Android Authority). There are hundreds of comments from affected users, and over 400 upvotes. A silent nod that even more are having issues. Users' phones are stuck on the initial "G" logo, which always appears when turning on your phone (or during a restart). Posts mention having this issue on a Pixel 4a, Pixel 10 Pro XL, Pixel 9, and more.

The publication found a recent reply from Google that seems to offer light at the end of the tunnel.

This solution might take time, though. The company's post reads, "Thank you for your continued patience as we’ve been investigating a startup or bootloop issue following the March, April, or May software updates causing devices to freeze on the G-logo or initial boot screen and locking out and rebooting immediately after entering a PIN."

Supposedly, Google has found that narrowing down a solution varies on a case-by-case basis. Or, in this scenario, device by device. Google says the only way to reach the "best path" forward to solve this issue is to contact its support team. It encourages users to state in their ticket what their issue is: "reboot loop issue after recent software update."

Pixel troubles

We first saw reports mention Pixel booting issues early in March after Google rolled out its monthly security patch. Users mentioned the same things they've continued to mention for months: they are unable to reach their device's true experience because they can't make it past the "G" logo. Users with Pixel 10 phones and several past-gen devices were reported in March.

To make matters worse, some users received a "Cannot load Android system and data corrupt" error message when trying to boot up their phones. Strangely, users have said they've been encountering this issue in April and May's security updates. At the time, one user said their Pixel 8 wouldn't even turn on. They were able to get it to illuminate after plugging in its charger, but the bootloop quickly ensued.

Google is working on things, at least. Though it's not really clear if many users are finding a proper (or quick) solution.

What you need to know

• Google has shut down Pixel Studio image generation and now redirects users to use the Gemini app for powerful Nano Banana models.
• Pixel Studio version 2.3 completely disables image creation after Google gradually removed features.
• Existing images remain accessible inside Pixel Studio, allowing users to continue viewing and sharing them.

Nearly two years after its debut, Google has officially killed the Pixel Studio image generation app for Pixel devices.

When the Pixel 9 series launched in 2024, Google introduced Pixel Studio as an on-device image generation app aimed at creating things like greeting cards, stickers, and AI-generated images directly on Pixel phones. But despite Google's efforts, the app never really found a large audience, and now it's being shut down less than two years later.

Google has confirmed that Pixel Studio is effectively being discontinued with the latest version 2.3 update. Instead of generating images itself, the app now directs users to Gemini for image creation using Google's newer Nano Banana models.

Over the past few updates, Google had already started stripping away parts of the Pixel Studio experience, but the latest version goes a step further by completely disabling image generation (via 9to5Google).

The app now prominently displays an 'Open Gemini' button that redirects users to the Play Store and encourages them to use Nano Banana through the Gemini app instead.

That said, existing creations aren't disappearing. If you've previously generated images inside Pixel Studio, those creations will still remain accessible within the app and can continue to be viewed or shared.

Honestly, Google already offers several different ways to generate images across Android, and with how much better and faster the latest Gemini-powered image models have become, I'm not sure many people will actually miss Pixel Studio. It always felt like one of those Pixel features that most users either never discovered or never really cared about in the first place.

What you need to know

• Google is gradually rolling out a new Android feature called “Contextual suggestions” that tries to predict what users want before they even tap anything.
• The feature is rolling out to some devices, including the Google Pixel 10 lineup running Android 16.
• Android can learn routines and habits, then surface timely suggestions like starting a TV cast before a sports game begins.

Android has been a reactive operating system for what feels like forever: It waits for you to tap an icon, type a search, or toggle a setting. But new findings indicate Google is trying to turn that relationship on its head to make Android a proactive assistant that knows what you want before you even know you need it.

Android Authority reports that a new feature named “Contextual suggestions” is now starting to roll out. The feature was first seen in development late last year, but is now rolling out in the stable channel to some devices, including the Google Pixel 10 series running Android 16.

The idea is that Android learns your routines, your patterns of behavior, and then offers suggestions at just the right moment. For example, if you regularly stream sports games to your TV on Saturday nights, Android could prompt you to begin casting before the game starts.

Not Google's first rodeo

This isn’t entirely new territory for Google. The company has been inching toward predictive Android experiences for years with things like Assistant routines, Smart Replies, At a Glance, and the Magic Cue system exclusive to Pixels. Contextual suggestions appear to be that idea made more mainstream, for a broader set of Android devices rather than just flagship Pixels.

What’s even more impressive about this rollout is how much Google is leaning into on-device AI. The feature processes activity and location data locally within an encrypted space within the phone itself, according to screengrabs shared by Android Authority. Google says the raw data is not sent off the device unless users opt in to share diagnostics or feedback.

Contextual suggestions sounds suspiciously like the sort of predictive computing many users have been wary of for years. A phone that knows when you’re going to the gym or about to watch sports can feel handy, but it also raises clear questions about how much your device is always learning about you.

Google seems to know of that concern. The feature can be turned off or controlled completely by Android settings. It will be found under Settings > Google Services > All services > Others when it’s ready.

Still, the rollout looks limited for now and it's unclear if or when non-Pixel devices will get full access.

What you need to know

• Pixel users continue to report buggy eSIM experiences for Google's Pixel 9 and 10 series devices.
• Users claim their device will say "something went wrong" or it simply won't recognize, nor activate their eSIM, despite it working fine in a different device.
• Google has been made aware of this issue and is reportedly working on a fix for a future update.

The bad streak of issues impacting Google's Pixel users continues with reports discussing wonky, broken eSIMs.

Per usual, reports kicked off on the Google Pixel subreddit earlier this week, with the original poster stating their Pixel 9 Pro XL's eSIM just gave out (via Android Authority). The user states that they've rolled back to avoid the April security update due to "encountering/reading about the critical eSIM bug that caused the device to fail to recognize digital SIMs." They add that their Pixel will not reconnect or activate their eSIM because of this issue.

A user with a Pixel 9 Pro encountered this same problem: "just can't manage to install an eSIM, it keeps giving me an error." There was a Pixel 9 Pro XL-related thread started on the Pixel Community Forum, reiterating many of the issues others have expressed on Reddit. The thread's creator says they checked their eSIM with a Samsung Galaxy device and found no such issues with their eSIM.

The user was encouraged to check with their cellular provider; however, doing so offered no such relief. The issue persisted, pushing them to further believe that the root of the problem lies within the device. Android Authority discovered that this problem is affecting some Pixel 10 users, as well.

Back on Reddit, one user with the April security patch reported no such issues. The original poster in the thread said that some users who performed a "clean flash" of the April and May patches had this problem, and that there's still a chance that the more conventional OTA update could still cause the eSIM issue. It's been reported that Google is aware of the eSIM issue, but hasn't yet confirmed when a fix will arrive.

Recent history

The bulk of these reports concern Google's April security patch, which had a different struggle for other Pixel users. Around mid-April, reports surfaced about a severe battery drain issue. What made matters worse was that many devices saw their batteries drop quickly while idle. As you'd imagine, this was a major pain point for many Pixel users with a Pixel 6 up to the Pixel 10.

Google vowed to have a fix for this severe battery drain in a future patch. Some users are waiting to see if the eSIM issue has been resolved in the May security update, but many have yet to receive it. Based on Google's changelog, no such fix for this eSIM problem was mentioned, but that doesn't mean it's not there. Hopefully, the fix is there. If not, then we might have to set our sights on June—or a surprise secondary patch later this month.

Android Central's Take

It almost feels like Google's Pixels are getting kicked while they're down—or wounded, at most. We're just now coming off the back of some much-needed wireless charging and display fixes in May, and now these eSIM problems are taking over with no resolution yet. I'm hoping Pixel users can get some stretch of time here in the near future where the "issues" aren't really issues at all because this eSIM problem is a true bummer for a lot of people.

What you need to know

• Google continues its QPR1 development for Android 17 by rolling out Beta 2 for enrolled Pixel users.
• Its patch notes highlight several fixes for swipe gestures, "visual instability" when moving between apps, Bluetooth tethering problems, and more.
• QPR1 Beta 1 rolled out a couple of weeks back, hauling in several key bug fixes.

Google's development of its first big Android 17 QPR update continues, as users receive a second beta this week.

The company revealed the contents of Android 17 QPR1 Beta 2 on Reddit for testers, highlighting its fixes for a slew of early test issues. Many reports were filed for Google between QPR1 Beta 1 and Beta concerning a "visual instability" issue affecting Pixels when moving apps "in the recent items screen." The company states it's rolling out a fix for this, alongside an issue that plagued the swipe gestures.

Pixel users reported needing to manually reactivate their device's internet sharing connected devices due to an emerging Bluetooth tethering issue. This was reported in Issue #371660785 in a lengthy Issue Tracker thread that spans beyond 2026. Google states this issue should be fixed, as users begin downloading QPR1 Beta 2's OTA patch.

On a decorative note, Google says a fix is rolling out for custom-themed apps. Many of these were displaying incorrectly on users' home screens when exiting other apps. The remainder of the changelog is as follows:

• Resolves a bug in the F2FS file system that could result in data corruption or unexpected system instability
• Fixed an issue where mobile signal bars incorrectly display as empty or greyed out despite active connectivity, preventing users from accurately gauging their network signal strength
• Terminating a third active call from the head unit incorrectly disconnects an existing conference call participant instead of the intended call
• Terminating a third active call from the head unit incorrectly disconnects an existing conference call participant instead of the intended call
• Resolved an issue where the Terminal app fails to launch, resulting in an unresolvable error pop-up and infinite loading

Android 17's off and running

We've witnessed Android 17 entering its "Platform Stability" stage, but Google isn't wasting any time by rolling out QPR1 Beta 1 right after. This update is intended to be the software's first major update following its arrival. It's kind of wild to think that Google is already moving onto "new features," but that's probably just smart thinking. When QPR1 Beta 1 launched, there weren't any notable features to discuss. The company was primarily focused on fixing issues for Pixels.

It's pretty much similar to the patch notes Google detailed for Beta 2 this week. We're expecting Android 17 to be released in mid-2026. The QPR1 contents will most likely wait until later in the year, potentially around August or September.

What you need to know

• Google started rolling out its May 2026 security update for the Pixel 7a up to the Pixel 10 (tablet included).
• Major issues, such as a slow wireless charging fix and display problems for the Pixel 10 series get highlighted.
• Display problems have been a worrying constant for Pixel 10 users since last year, and Google is still toiling away at them.

Like clockwork, Google is highlighting its monthly security patch for its Pixel phones, and there are some specific issues getting targeted.

Google has posted its changelog for the May 2026 security update, which is rolling out for Pixels ranging from the Pixel 7a to the Pixel 10 series. Owners of these phones will find vCP1A.260505.005 roll out begins today, and continues into the foreseeable future. Google detailed a major fix for an issue that's plagued all of the devices eligible for this month's update.

It states that you should find a fix for "slow wireless charging speeds when the battery level is between 75% and 80%." While this update involves all of its phones from the Pixel 7a to the Pixel 10, the company says the Pixel Tablet is also included. Elsewhere, the Pixel 10 series is preparing to receive a fix for a camera problem. Google states that there have been reports where some Pixel 10 series users encountered freezing "while recording and adjusting the zoom level."

A fix for this is rolling out, alongside a Framework fix for the Pixel keyboard. A freezing issue hampered this area, too, with Google stating "the keyboard or input screen could appear frozen or incorrectly positioned in some apps under certain conditions."

The remainder of the changelog is as follows:

• Fix for an issue that caused a persistent flickering white dot or visual noise to appear at the top of the display in certain conditions (Pixel 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL)
• Fix for an issue that could intermittently cause the screen to appear fuzzy, frozen, or display noise lines (Pixel 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL)

Crucial issues get solved

It's becoming quite common to see display fixes rolling out from Google, especially for its Pixel 10 series. Pixel 10 users reported a freezing issue with the AOD (always-on display) after the March update. Some users said the freeze would occur multiple times a day, forcing them to restart their device. This wasn't the only display issue, as Google's Pixels have grappled with flickering and more, as of late.

Nevertheless, Google continues to toil away, and that's all we can hope for. In April, the company started fixing some stability issues with Android 16. Google focused on the Pixel 10, Pro, and Pro XL during that time, as well, hoping to solve performance issues when gaming.

Everything keeps getting more expensive, but while other retailers and wireless providers are raising prices, Mint Mobile has decided to run one of the best Google Pixel 10 deals I've ever seen. For a limited time, if you bundle the purchase of a Google Pixel 10 with one year of the Unlimited plan, Mint Mobile will give you $500 off the phone AND 50% off the wireless. 

In other words, you're getting Google's latest flagship phone and a full 12 months of T-Mobile-powered wireless for a single payment of $480. That's over $300 less than simply buying the Google Pixel 10 on its own, and $20 less than Google's budget-friendly Pixel 10a! And come on, I'll take any excuse to avoid paying my phone bill again until 2027. 

✅Recommended if: you want a modern flagship phone with great cameras, AI features, and years of software support; you just want a simple, affordable phone plan without all of the bells and whistles.

❌Skip this deal if: you use a ton of data every month and prefer phone plans with loads of extra perks; you want the best possible phone for gaming.

Usually priced around $799, the Google Pixel 10 is a balanced flagship phone with a brilliant 6.3-inch OLED display, unrivalled haptics, and some excellent camera tech with an upgraded telephoto lens. The phone also comes with all of the latest AI features and full Qi2 support, while the seven years of OS and security upgrades guarantees that the Pixel 10 will feel cutting-edge for many years to come.

Mint Mobile, on the other hand, is powered by T-Mobile and operates on a unique buy-in-bulk plan system. The Unlimited plan gives you unlimited talk, text, and data on T-Mo's legendary 5G network, plus you get a free mobile hotspot and calling to Mexico, Canada, and the UK. 

Sure, Mint Mobile doesn't come with all of the premium benefits offered by Big Three carriers like Verizon or AT&T, but you're getting good coverage for cheap and a heavily discounted smartphone to boot. One of the best unlimited plans paired with one of the best Google Pixel phones for less than 500 bucks? Sign me up. 

What you need to know

• "Pixel Glow" rumors continue, as diagnostic-related code suggests Google could have roughly eight LED colors.
• Gemini also appeared once again in Google's early code with the "Gemini Glow" moniker alongside the Pixel name.
• The first rumors about this feature suggests Pixel Glow could give "visual feedback" for users, such as specific colors for certain contacts and more.

Early "Pixel Glow" rumors were like a blast from the past, but additional information about it says Google might take it further.

If you've been clamoring for more Pixel Glow speculation, tipster AssembleDebug (Android Authority) dug up more evidence about Google's development. While rumors last week highlighted this as a potential nostalgic light bar, the tipster says they've found more that doubles down. Supposedly, early code suggests Google is preparing a "Color LED check." This is likely for diagnostic purposes, but it adds that the "LED lights will turn into red, green, and blue in order. Please flip the device to observe."

This makes it seem like the light bar will have a limited selection of colors, but 9to5Google says otherwise. According to its discovery, Google might deploy an LED selection of eight colors. Right now, it seems wise to think we'll see Google's traditional assortment of colors present (add yellow to that list).

AssembleDebug also noted a potentially strong presence from Gemini with this Pixel Glow feature. They noted mentions of "Gemini Glow" in the code alongside these new discoveries. It's unclear just how Gemini would play with Pixel Glow, but it makes us wonder if the lights would pulse when it speaks to the user.

A true glow up

There was a brief laptop animation reference by 9to5, suggesting Google could place this "Pixel Glow" or "Gemini Glow" along the bottom edge of its display.

Laptops and Pixels, oh my; that's exactly what was involved in the first report about the possibility of Pixel Glow's new age return. There was very little then (like how it is now), as rumors alleged this feature would offer "visual feedback" on a Pixel phone and a new Pixel-branded laptop. While this is an old Pixel feature, a more current comparison would be Nothing's Glyph bar, which keeps users in the loop at a glance.

Custom light animations for specific contacts and important alerts were named during this initial report.

Shopping for unlocked devices is often to best way to find a good smartphone deal with very few strings attached. For example, Amazon has chopped the price of the Google Pixel 10 by 31%, bringing the powerful phone back to its lowest price ever.

This particular deal is for the entry-level 128GB configuration of the phone, though you can also upgrade to 256GB. Additionally, the deal is available for the phone in the Indigo, Lemongrass, and Frost colors.

While it narrowly missed being included on the actual list, the Pixel 10 is on our honorable mentions of the best Android phones index. This is in part due to its ease of use, a wide range of helpful AI features, and a long-term software update promise that makes it worth holding onto for a while.

✅Recommended if: you're looking for a great Pixel phone and you'd prefer to keep your budget around $550; battery life is super important to you when it comes to getting a new phone; you like having a user-friendly experience in general, as well as added AI and software features.

❌Skip this deal if: you have the budget to upgrade to the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL, which is our favorite phone for parents, pet parents, or anyone taking a lot of pictures; you'd prefer to go with a flagship from the Samsung Galaxy or OnePlus lineups; you don't want a phone that throttles battery after 200 cycles.

The Google Pixel 10 is among our favorite phones out there as a powerhouse, boasting excellent cameras, AI features, haptics, and a long-term software promise. The phone has a 6.3-inch Actua OLED display with a variable 60 to 120Hz refresh rate. As for cameras, it comes with a 48MP main lens with macro focus, a 13MP Ultrawide lens, and a 10.5MP front-facing camera. There's no shortage of processing power with the Google Tensor G5, and the 12GB of RAM offers great multi-tasking capabilities. Plus, it boasts an upgraded battery from the Pixel 9, easily reaching a full days' worth of battery life.

What you need to know

• Pixel users report severe idle battery drain after the April 2026 update, even when not actively using their phones.
• The issue appears widespread, affecting multiple models from Pixel 6 to Pixel 10 with hundreds of reports online.
• Google has acknowledged the problem and is working on a fix, which could arrive with a future update soon.

Google Pixel and software bugs aren't anything new, and it looks like, after the April 2026 update, users are now reporting battery life issues on their devices.

As spotted by 9to5Google, Google's Issue Tracker and multiple Reddit threads are filled with Pixel users complaining about battery drain. Many say their phones are losing battery even in the idle state, when they're not actively using them.

The scale of the issue seems fairly widespread. There are now over 600 comments on Google's Issue Tracker in just over a week, along with several Reddit threads reporting the same problem.

What's more concerning is that it doesn't seem limited to a specific device. Users across multiple generations, from the Pixel 6 series all the way up to the Pixel 10 lineup, are reporting similar battery drain issues after installing the update.

The exact cause of the idle battery drain isn't confirmed yet, but some users believe it's linked to the CPU staying active even when the phone isn't in use. It appears the CPU isn't entering a deep sleep state when the screen is off, which keeps it running and leads to battery drain.

Some reports also mention that the issue persists even in airplane mode, and in some cases, battery life has been cut nearly in half.

Thankfully, Google has acknowledged the issue and confirmed that it's working on a fix. There's no official timeline yet for when the patch will arrive, but it's likely that the company will address it in an upcoming update, possibly with the May 2026 patch. We'll keep you updated as and when Google rolls out a fix for this issue.

It's worth noting that this isn't the first time Pixel users have run into battery issues after an update. Similar complaints surfaced last May, and there was another instance in October 2025 when a Pixel 10 Pro Fold bug caused noticeable battery drain.

Android Central's Take

I've said this before, Pixel updates feel like a gamble sometimes. You either get cool new features or a bug that ruins daily use. Battery drain is one of the worst ones, and this needs a fix ASAP.

What you need to know

• Pixel users across several generations are reporting bootlooping issues after the March update.
• Users say they are unable to reach their lock screens, as their phones fail to make it past the "G" logo upon starting.
• Google is reportedly aware of the problem; however, the arrival of a fix is still unknown.

While the Pixel 10 has been grappling with issues, March is now reportedly causing issues for other Pixels, too.

Users across Reddit have been reporting problems with their Pixels after downloading the March security update (via Android Authority). The user reports that their Pixel 8 has been getting stuck in a bootloop. The issue is much deeper, as they say, "The phone will not turn on at all on battery power. No vibrating, no screen, nothing." Relief is reportedly achieved when their Pixel 8 is on its charger; however, that's when the bootloop begins.

Their phone will start, display the Google "G," then its screen will turn black—rinse and repeat. It goes without saying that their phone never reaches a point where it's usable. Another user chimed in, stating they've encountered this problem on their Pixel 10 XL after the March update. Another user's Pixel 10 encountered a serious issue with the March update, as their phone gave a "Cannot load Android system and data corrupt" message.

This problem also seems to stem from the March update. The user from the first report says they can open Fastboot on their Pixel, but attempting to start the device from there yields no results. Many users are simply biding their time, awaiting the April update to bring some good news.

One after another

The publication highlighted one user's comment that says users have a lengthy thread on Google's Issue Tracker about this problem. It looks like Google is aware of the issue now. The only thing that remains is the update itself to give users affected some much-needed aid. Reportedly, a few users have found that booting their phone in Safe Mode has helped.

March hasn't treated Google's Pixel 10 series too kindly. The month got off to the usual security patch, which was still working on lingering graphics issues. Shortly after, Pixel users raised their voices about always-on display problems. Those reports last month said Pixel 10 phones would lock up multiple times a day, which would force users to restart their devices. Since launch, freezing screens and flickering issues have been a constant for the series, similar to others.

Plenty of wireless carriers have been launching Google Pixel 10 deals lately, but Mint Mobile is back with an offer that makes the competition look like a joke. For a limited time, if you bundle the purchase of the flagship with one year of the Unlimited plan, you'll get a whopping $500 off the phone AND 50% off the wireless. 

I know that sounds like a mouthful, but think about this way: the Mint Mobile deal lands you one of the best AI phones on the market and a full 12 months of unlimited T-Mobile-powered wireless for only $479 (or $40 per month using affirm). Considering that the Pixel 10 usually costs $799 on its own, this wireless deal is a no-brainer for anyone seeking a sparkly new phone plan. 

• See the full list of phone deals at Mint Mobile today

✅Recommended if: you want to score $500 off one of the best flagship phones on the market, and you don't mind switching to a new phone plan to do it; you want T-Mobile-powered wireless coverage for cheap, and you don't need all of the bells and whistles that come with other unlimited plans. 

❌Skip this deal if: you'd rather not be locked into a single data plan for 12 months; you use more than 50GB of data every month; you prefer comprehensive phone plans that come with premium perks like streaming subscriptions and international coverage. 

Powered by the new Tensor G5 chipset, the Google Pixel 10 is a balanced flagship that boasts an upgraded camera system, excellent haptics, and all of the latest AI-boosted software features. The 6.3-inch AMOLED display is simply a joy to behold, plus you're getting Qi2 charging support and a hefty 12GB of RAM under the hood. 

Like most Google Pixel phones, you're also guaranteed seven OS and security upgrades as standard, which means the Pixel 10 could be your daily driver for many years to come. 

Mint Mobile, on the other hand, is famous for providing comprehensive T-Mobile-powered coverage at a much lower cost than the competition, utilizing a straightforward buy-in-bulk plan system that puts you in the driver's seat. 

The carrier's Unlimited plan — which is easily the best value here — provides unlimited talk, text, and data on T-Mo's legendary network, plus you get a mobile hotspot and free calling to Mexico, Canada, and the UK.  

So what's the catch? Well, it's worth mentioning that Mint's Unlimited plan gets capped at 50GB of monthly data before speeds start to slow, so heavy data users may find the carrier a bit lacking. Mint customers also miss out on a lot of the premium perks that come from more-expensive unlimited plans, such as entertainment benefits and international coverage, so consider all of your monthly usage before you commit to the year of service.

All things said and done, if you want one of the latest Android phones for cheap, this is a great way to score a new device and some new wireless without breaking the bank. For folks who like to keep things simple, any minor issues that come from using Mint should be easy to overlook, especially when you realize that you won't have to pay your phone bill again until 2027.

What you need to know

• A rumor claims Google is working on a future bootloader patch that will restrict users from downgrading to older Android software.
• This change is reportedly headed for the Pixel 10, though the rumor wasn't clear as to when this might arrive.
• Google's had anti-rollback measures before on the Pixel 6 series, and even OnePlus came forward with something similar; however, it did walk it back.

Apparently, Google is looking to deliver a deterrent against downgrading Pixel Android software in a future patch.

This was a possibility alleged by tipster Mystic Leaks in a Telegram post this week (via Android Authority). Mystic suggests Google is preparing a bootloader update for the flagship Pixel 10 series phones that "increments anti-rollback version for the bootloader." Simply put, this change, once downloaded, would make it nearly impossible for users to downgrade from one Android OS version to another. Say, you've had problems with this current update, well, you could downgrade.

With this rumored patch, you wouldn't be able to do that anymore and would have to stick it out. However, this is where the "nearly impossible" aspect comes into play. Mystic claims that users may be forced to sideload a previous OTA to not brick their device in "certain situations."

This anti-rollback measure isn't anything new. As Android Authority mentions, Google has implemented this since way back on the Pixel 6. Its purpose is to stop users from dropping back into a potentially harmful version of Android that might have a critical vulnerability.

It's unclear when this is supposed to arrive, though Mystic Leaks only claims a "future Android release" will carry it.

Software safety

Google rolled out a patch that updated its bootloader to stop people from downgrading from Android 13 to 12 on the Pixel years ago. Shortly after, Google said it was making it possible for users to downgrade from Android 13 to 12, but only if you were a developer. It was made known that Google did this to prevent the bootloader vulnerabilities from being exploited. That sentiment caused quite a few frustrations for developers, which is why the company rolled out some aid.

Those developer support builds weren't intended to be used for everyday use, as Google said in its post. More importantly, those builds didn't have the latest security software patches. We also heard some anti-rollback talk from OnePlus earlier this year when word broke that it would brick your phone if you attempted to go back. Downgrading or flashing a custom ROM would result in an unusable phone (OnePlus 13, 13T, and 15).

Users didn't take too kindly to this news, as OnePlus had to come forward days later and confirm that its anti-rollback measures were temporary.

Google Pixel smartphones might be some of the most capable phones when it comes to AI features, but that alone doesn't make them the best Android phones out there. There are plenty of benefits you only get on a Pixel, like the ability to magically add someone to a group photo or have AI hold calls for you, and those are exactly why I can't let go of my Pixel 10 Pro.

However, that doesn't mean Pixel phones are free of issues. I've been facing problems with wireless Android Auto in my car with my Pixel 10 Pro, and I know I'm not alone.

If you've been dealing with similar Bluetooth issues on your Pixel as well, Google now includes a hidden Bluetooth diagnostics tool that can help pinpoint what's going wrong — and here's how to use it.

Google Pixel and Bluetooth connectivity issues aren't new

Pixel phones might excel in areas such as reliable camera performance and timely updates, but there are still a few recurring issues that frustrate users. Issues like display glitches and apps crashing after update aren't new to Pixel users, but one of the most common complaints has been unreliable Bluetooth connectivity.

Many Reddit users, on Pixel 9 and Pixel 10 devices alike, have repeatedly reported Bluetooth issues, especially with Android Auto. Thankfully, it looks like Google has taken note and now has a dedicated tool to help users diagnose Bluetooth problems directly on their devices.

The company has started rolling out a new Bluetooth diagnostics tool that, as the name suggests, helps identify issues with Bluetooth on your phone. It runs a series of tests to detect connection problems and suggests possible fixes if something goes wrong.

If you've been dealing with Bluetooth issues on your Pixel device, here's how you can use this tool to finally track down and fix the problem.

How to use Google Pixel's hidden Bluetooth diagnostics tool

Pixel's Bluetooth diagnostics tool is new, and it only started rolling out recently with an update to the Pixel Troubleshooting app (v1.0.885948717).

The first step is to update the Troubleshooting app to the latest version from the Google Play Store. If you can't find the update, you can open the app listing directly and update it from there. Once the app is updated, follow these steps to run the Bluetooth diagnostics tool on your device:

1. Open the Settings app on your Pixel device.

2. In Settings, go to Connected devices and tap Bluetooth diagnostics.

3. Depending on your situation, choose the appropriate option. If your device is already connected, select it.

4. If you're having trouble connecting, select the Can't find your device option. If you own Pixel Buds, a Pixel Watch, or are facing issues with Android Auto, choose the relevant option. For other devices, such as a Bluetooth mic or speaker, tap Others.

5. After selecting the device, choose the issue you're facing from the list.

6. Once selected, the tool will begin running Bluetooth tests.

Once the test is complete, it'll show whether there's an issue with the connection. If a problem is detected, it'll suggest possible fixes, like re-pairing the accessory or contacting the manufacturer. You can also reach out to Google support directly if needed.

There are other hidden tools to fix problems on your Pixel as well

Thanks to the new Pixel Bluetooth diagnostics tool, I was finally able to figure out the issue between my car's head unit and my Pixel 10 Pro.

But Google isn't the only one offering this. If you have a Samsung Galaxy device like the Galaxy S26 Ultra or even older Galaxy phones, Samsung also offers a similar feature that you can access via Support > Diagnostics > Phone Diagnostics.

In addition to fixing Bluetooth issues, Pixel phones also include a range of other diagnostic tools for common problems. For example, if you're facing touch issues, battery problems, or overheating, you can head to the My Pixel app, go to Troubleshoot, and test these features individually to identify the exact issue.

I think more manufacturers should adopt tools like this, as they make it much easier to fix common problems (especially since many of them can be resolved with simple fixes).

The Samsung Galaxy S26 series is out, so naturally, it is the talk of the town. Samsung usually passes "brand-new flagships" with iterative upgrades as shiny must-haves to the masses, but not this time. The S26 models might look like last year's phones with rounded corners and slimmer bodies — while resembling the design language of the Pixel 10 series a little too closely — but there are plenty of new features to look forward to.

Samsung can color me impressed by the innovative privacy screen technology, which lets users prevent snoops from peeking at their devices without having to invest in a privacy screen protector. But apart from its incredible display tech, Samsung continues to lean heavily on the software side.

Samsung continues to "borrow" Google's features and rebrand them for Galaxy devices. Markedly, however, Samsung isn't just copying Google's homework word for word. In fact, newer phones like the Galaxy S26 series often surpass the best Google Pixel devices in Pixel-like traits. Pixel phones have always stood out for their unique software, and since the Pixel 6 series, exclusive AI-based tools and features have been the major draw of Google's phones.

In 2026, it feels like anyone seeking out that OG Google software experience may be better off buying a Samsung phone instead. Ironically, the best Samsung Galaxy phones come with the best Google features (or Galaxy AI versions of them). Some of these AI features are even powered by Gemini, and most of them perform better than they do on Google Pixel phones.

The line between the Galaxy S26 and Pixel 10 is thinner than ever before

This is not a new direction Samsung is headed. The Korean smartphone manufacturer has been making a big hullabaloo about AI features since the Galaxy S24 launch. It's where all major smartphones have been headed for a while now.

AI has paved the way for incredibly capable and intuitive new tools and features in modern phones. Agentic AI is working on advancing automations powered by AI to a whole new level. We can now use natural language with our AI assistants and do more in shorter time frames.

Google pioneered the concept of AI being the heart and soul of a phone's coveted features with the Pixel 6 and the first Tensor chipset. Features like Magic Eraser and Live Translate broke the internet and showed the world that AI processors stood at the center of innovation in the smartphone industry. Samsung essentially ports these features to its phones, like the Galaxy S26, and often advances them even more than the latest Google phones, like the Pixel 10.

Look at Circle to Search and Interpreter on the S24 series, Audio Eraser and AI-suggested replies on the S25 series, or Creative Studio, which debuted with the S26 series. All of these features already exist to some extent on corresponding Google Pixel releases, some of them with the same names. Now Nudge feels like Samsung's version of Magic Cue. Even Samsung's Now Bar and Now Brief feel derivative of Google's At a Glance widget.

Notably, Samsung takes Google's own features and often makes them even better. We've seen this gradually over the last few Galaxy S series launches, but the gap in the advancement of such features on Galaxy and Pixel phones is more prominent now than ever.

Samsung's Photo Assist lets you give creative editing instructions in natural language, and you can even pluck an element from one photo and blend it into another. Pixel owners can make basic edits using natural language prompts via Ask Photos/Help Me Edit in Google Photos. However, the feature isn't widely available, even on Pixel 10 devices worldwide. At the time of writing, my Pixel 10 Pro, purchased in Malaysia at launch, still lacks this feature.

Samsung allowed Gemini access to third-party apps to run tasks on Galaxy phones before Google Pixel phones. Features like Audio Eraser, Now Bar, Now Nudge, and Photo Assist on the S26 series prove that Galaxy devices are more capable at features created by Google for Pixel devices.

Why you would buy a Galaxy S26 over a Pixel 10

In a way, this makes it easy to justify spending $100-$200 more on an S26-series phone than on the Pixel 10, and there are three very solid reasons to choose a Samsung Pixel over a Google Pixel. As I've already established, Samsung isn't just copying and pasting Google's AI features; it's improving them.

The second reason is pure, unadulterated power. There is no doubt about the raw processing prowess of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset found in the S26 series. Android Central's Harish Jonnalagadda pitted the SoC against Google's Tensor G5, and the Qualcomm chipset was clearly the better performer. When it comes to raw power for gaming and processor-heavy tasks like multitasking, anyone would pick a Samsung flagship over a Google one.

The third and final reason hits close to home. As a lover of magnetic Qi2 and all the wonders it enables, it's tough to face the music: plenty of people don't care that the S26 series does not have it. We asked our readers whether it's a dealbreaker if the Galaxy S26 doesn't have built-in Qi2 magnets. Of 1,100 responses, over 50% said the lack of magnetic charging is a dealbreaker, while 35% said it doesn't matter. To a large chunk of the consumer base, the lack of native Qi2 magnetic charging is of no consequence, especially when you're likely to throw a case on the phone anyway.

Why I still pick Google's Pixel over Samsung's Pixel, but most people shouldn't

We're two years in since I wrote about Samsung making a Pixel, so you don't have to buy one. At the time, I felt like Samsung was imitating Google but beating them at their own game.

Google is performing markedly better in the Android phone space now. I am once again primarily driving a Pixel every day, despite the Pixel 6, which was a fiasco in the long run.

From the Best Take feature to exclusive options like Direct My Call in Pixel Call Assist, the Pixel 10 has plenty of excellent AI features that keep things interesting and are the reason I keep coming back. I am obsessed with the Now Playing widget on the lock screen that instantly shows what song is being played around me. I love that I can yell "STOP!" at a ringing alarm to shut it up without having to set anything up in the Google Assistant app.

But most importantly, I get native magnetic Qi2 built into my Pixel 10 Pro. As someone who tinkers with smartphone accessories for a living, I value this feature significantly more than privacy screen tech, even if I'm not in the majority.

Pixel, but make it Galaxy

By going all in on Galaxy AI, incorporating more Gemini features, Samsung is undoubtedly beating Google Pixels at their own game. Most common people with jobs unlike mine are much better off with a Samsung flagship. They don't miss out on any of the flashiest "Pixel-exclusive" goodies. Instead, the Galaxy S26 comes with more advanced AI features that make the Pixel 10 stand out.

In the words of our managing editor, Derrek Lee, even if Samsung is reheating Google's nachos, it's at least giving them its own flair and adding its own sauce.

Even I have to admit I would have reconsidered my Pixel 10 Pro purchase had the S26 been released at the same time. If I had an extra $100 or $200 to spare, I just might've opted for the Galaxy over the Pixel. After all, a cheap and effective magnetic ring sticker can solve my need for magnetic Qi2 instead.

The best AI phones aren't cheap, especially in 2026 when RAM is driving prices up, but the Pixel 10 is one of the better ones and has been consistently on sale since it launched last summer. Now, the Pixel 10 is discounted once more during the Big Spring Sale, bringing one of our favorite smartphones back down to one of its lowest prices we've seen since August 2025.

At launch, the Pixel 10 retailed for $799, which is actually quite nice given all the upgrades it saw. We've seen that price drop several times, and with this latest 25% discount, the flagship has been slashed to just $599, bringing this flagship phone into midrange pricing.

• See the full list of deals during Amazon's Big Spring Sale

✅Recommended if: You want a powerful flagship smartphone with a great camera system but don't want to pay flagship prices.

❌Skip this deal if: You're looking for the most performant smartphone for gaming or need more than 128GB as a base storage option.

I've been using the Pixel 10 since it launched in August last year, and I'm not even lying when I say it's my favorite Pixel and the first one I'd actually recommend. The upgraded camera system adds a third sensor for 5x telephoto zoom shots, and images look phenomenal. Furthermore, the new Tensor chip is better than ever, and I actually really like the battery life on the Pixel 10, as it easily lasts me through the day.

The Pixel 10 is also the first Android flagship to have built-in Qi2 magnetic charging, so you won't need a case to use MagSafe accessories (although we still recommend checking out some Pixel 10 cases). There are also tons of fun and useful AI features like Magic Cue and Camera Coach, and with the latest update, you can even share content to iPhones via Quick Share's AirDrop support.

On the one hand, the Pixel 10 only has 128GB of base storage, which really isn't enough for anyone seeking a flagship phone. On the other hand, that model is also on sale, so instead of spending $899 for 256GB, you can spend just $699, still making it cheaper than most flagships like the newer Galaxy S26.

We've seen a lot of great Google Pixel deals lately, but any offer that carves 50% off a flagship phone is going to be a cause for celebration. That's exactly what's happening over at Visible Wireless, as the Verizon-powered carrier is currently offering half off the Google Pixel 10 series when you pair the purchase with an annual plan and use the code GOOGLE at checkout. 

The Google Pixel 10, Google Pixel 10 Pro, and the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL are all included in the deal, so you can take your pick. No trade-in is required, and all three of Visible's unlimited plans will land you the discount when you use the code. 

The catch, of course, is that you'll have to pay for a full year of wireless if you want the discount. Going with Visible's Basic plan will cost you $275 upfront, which shakes out to $23 per month for 12 months. Add that to the Google Pixel 10 with a 50% discount and you're looking at a total payment of $675 out the door. Not too shabby when you consider that the phone usually costs $799 on its own!

Powered by Google's very own Tensor G5 chipset, the Pixel 10 boasts a lovely OLED display, full Qi2 magnetic support, and the excellent haptic feedback that we've come to expect from the brand. You also get some versatile AI-boosted camera tech with an upgraded telephoto lens, not to mention seven years of OS and security upgrades guaranteed. 

All of Visible's unlimited plans get you unlimited talk, text, and data powered by Verizon's legendary 5G/4G LTE network, plus you'll get an unlimited mobile hotspot, spam protection, and talk/text in Mexico and Canada. Going with the carrier's more-premium Visible Plus or Visible Plus Pro plans will land you some extra benefits, such as unlimited premium data and additional perks abroad. 

What you need to know

• Pixel users are reporting on Reddit that the March update is causing terrible freezing issues for the always-on display.
• Users say the freezing happens multiple times a day, often forcing them to restart their device.
• The Pixel 10, much like other Pixels, have suffered from an always-on display and flickering screen issues since launch.

Another selection of Google's Pixel users are reporting problems after downloading the March software update.

Reports started appearing on the Google Pixel subreddit this week, stating that the March update has caused issues with the phone's display (via Android Police). The original post asks others if they're encountering issues with their Pixel's display, specifically, the always-on display feature. The user states their device "just froze on me on the AOD screen" during a drive, and that they had to "force reset" their phone.

The user adds that they're using a Pixel 10 Pro. After restarting, their device has seemingly turned sluggish when opening apps. There are over fifty comments in this Reddit thread. One user states their Pixel 10 Pro's AOD has also frozen. More importantly, the notifications appear "on top of a black background lock screen."

Other reports cite similar experiences, such as one user who has encountered "multiple lock screen freezes" a day and another who says the freezes have returned more prominently than before. This issue appears to have affected the Pixel 10 series quite terribly; however, a few past-gen Pixel owners reported problems, too. It's not clear just how deep this goes for older models, as one Pixel 9 user said "all ok," while others, even some found by Android Police, have freezing AOD/lock screen problems.

There was even one Pixel 10 Pro user who said they were fine, which only makes this more frustrating for everyone else. As far as solutions go, it's most likely that we'll have to wait for another update from Google. One user in Google's beta environment factory reset their phone and found relief. Treat this as more of a last resort option.

The problems stack

Display problems have been a significant constant for Pixel 10 owners these past few months. More importantly, this is yet another instance in which the AOD has been affected. There were other reports in December—following that month's patch—that had Pixel users noticing a flickering issue with the display. The flicker remained for users during wireless charging, clock refreshes, and when unlocking the device. Reports were seemingly restricted to the Pixel 10 series at that time.

Funnily enough, older Pixels faced a flickering display issue back in October. This patch was just another that the company had to deploy due to the issues users faced. We'll have to wait and see if Google performs similarly for what's messing up the AOD this time in March. A more current issue, aside from phones, is affecting the Pixel Watch's SpO2 and skin temperature readings.

It's true that Google Pixel 10 deals are becoming increasingly common, but this new offer from Mint Mobile has stopped me in my tracks. For a limited time, the T-Mobile-owned wireless carrier is slashing $500 off the Google flagship when you bundle your purchase with one year of the Unlimited plan. That drops the price of the phone down to $299!

As if that wasn't enough, the wireless itself is also getting a 50% discount. In other words, this deal lands you a new Google Pixel 10 and a full twelve months of one of my all-time favorite unlimited plans for a single payment of $479. 

For a little perspective, the flagship phone in question usually costs $799 when you buy unlocked, and that doesn't even include any wireless coverage. Seriously, take a moment to think about your last phone bill and tell me this Mint Mobile deal doesn't sound tempting.

Get a Pixel 10 AND a full year of Unlimited for only $479

✅Recommended if: you want a stylish Pixel phone with great cameras and years of software support; you hate paying your phone bill and wouldn't mind buying some wireless in bulk.

❌Skip this deal if: you can afford the Pixel 10 Pro or Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra; you want a comprehensive wireless plan with premium features like international coverage or entertainment perks.

Powered by T-Mobile's legendary 5G network, Mint Mobile works with a buy-in-bulk plan system that lets you choose exactly how much data you want in 3, 6, and 12-month increments of time. The Unlimited plan gets you unlimited talk, text, and data (capped at 35GB/month before speeds could start to slow), plus a mobile hotspot and free calling to Mexico, Canada, and the UK.

The Pixel 10, for its part, is a stylish 2025 flagship that's powered by Google's very own Tensor G5 chipset and 12GB of RAM. You also get outstanding camera hardware with a bunch of fun AI features, Qi2 magnet support, and seven years of OS and security upgrades guaranteed. 

Sure, some folks may not want to commit to a full 12 months of Mint Mobile, while others may wish to upgrade to a more comprehensive wireless plan. But if you want to grab a great phone and cover your phone bill for an entire year, this is the only deal that'll get you there for less than 500 bucks. It's not going to last forever, however, so don't wait too long if you're interested.

What you need to know

• Gemini screen automation is now rolling out to the Pixel 10 series in the U.S. after debuting on Galaxy S26.
• The feature lets Gemini handle tasks like ordering food, booking rides, and placing grocery orders.
• Usage depends on subscription tier, with free users getting about 5 requests and Ultra up to 120 daily.

After rolling out Gemini app control on the Galaxy S26 series, the Google Pixel 10 lineup is now picking up the feature in the U.S.

At the Galaxy Unpacked event in February 2026, Samsung and Google showcased a feature that allows Gemini to handle tasks on your behalf. If you are unfamiliar with it, Gemini screen automation can help with actions like ordering food, calling a cab, or placing grocery orders without you touching your phone.

Soon after the Galaxy S26 series went on sale earlier this month, Samsung began rolling out the feature in the U.S. and Korea. Our editor Nick Sutrich tried it hands-on and described it as "next level automation"

And now, the feature is also arriving on the Pixel 10 series in the U.S. As spotted by 9to5Google first, the feature now available across the entire lineup, including the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold running Android 16 QPR3 stable.

You'll be able to trigger the feature the same way you access Gemini now, either by holding the power button or using the "Hey Google" command. Once activated, Gemini walks through the task step by step on screen in a virtual window, showing what it is doing, and you can take control at any time. It also asks for final confirmation before completing the action.

Users can find the feature in the Gemini app settings under Screen automation. For now, it supports a limited set of apps, including Lyft, Uber, Uber Eats, Grubhub, DoorDash, and Starbucks. Gemini can also ask follow-up questions, such as selecting a drink size or store location when placing an order.

The report also notes that usage limits depend on your Gemini subscription tier. Free users can make around five requests per day, while Gemini Ultra subscribers can go up to 120 requests daily. .

Android Central's Take

It's great to see this feature arriving on more Android phones now. This kind of automation is what agentic AI has been about, and we are finally seeing it in action across multiple phone models. I just cannot wait for Google to roll it out to more regions as well.

Remember when Rules was a big thing on Android? Yeah, me neither. This long-forgotten feature from 2019 still exists, as I recently discovered, and it is actually quite useful.

The Rules feature is still available on Android 16, and it's really straightforward. You can use it to create automations by setting conditions that trigger an event based on your Wi-Fi or location. While the automations aren't as open-ended, they're still a nifty way to change settings you alter regularly.

The Google Pixel 10 not only retains this feature but also uses the Tensor's smarts to learn from your habits and suggest automations based on your behavior. I've found Rules quite helpful since rediscovering the feature, and here's how you can use it, too.

How to configure Rules on your Pixel to create automations

Rules work much like routines on Google Home. Except, of course, you're not creating automations for smart devices. Rather, Rules create automations that change certain phone settings on your Google Pixel device based on your location or the Wi-Fi network you're connected to.

Let me walk you through the steps of setting a Rule. I used a Pixel 10 Pro for this guide, but any Google Pixel device running Android 10 or above should have this feature.

1. Open Settings on your Google Pixel.

2. Enter System settings.

3. Tap Rules under System settings.

4. Tap Next and give the necessary permissions to access Wi-Fi and location data.

5. Tap the Add rule button.

6. Choose your rule type: Wi-Fi or Location.

7. Set the location or Wi-Fi network.

8. Next, set the action that you want your Pixel to do.

9. Tap the final Add button at the bottom-right corner.

This one is a bonus step that can help you out a ton. In the Rules settings menu where you just created an automation, enable the toggle to Automatically suggest rules based on changes that you regularly make to your settings.

The beauty of a Pixel is that is does everything better

If you felt unsure about how you could benefit from the "Automatically suggest rules" option, it's a fantastic way to let your phone do the thinking. Even if you can't think of the settings you change frequently and in what conditions, your Pixel will notice your patterns and suggest useful automations based on that.

I'm really hoping to see Google integrate this with Gemini and Google Home going forward, enabling us to do even more with the Rules feature. It seems like the natural path for Google to take, especially with Gemini being front and center in Android and the rise of agentic AI.

We all have that one embarrassing app we'd like to hide, personal pictures we want to keep to ourselves, or important documents that should not be easily accessible to anyone who uses our phones. I use a neat little feature to store anything I don't want visible in a secret space on my Pixel 10 Pro, including apps, documents, and other files. Hidden items don't even show up in the phone's search results!

Why would you want to do that, you ask? A password protects your phone, but there are instances when friends, family, or others may access your device. In some countries, airport security officials can check your phone — yes, even personal apps like your social media and gallery.

Let's also not forget that if your phone gets lost or stolen, you don't want a stranger to gain access to highly sensitive data on it, such as a copy of your passport or private images.

Private Space hides secret apps on your phone

The feature is officially called Private Space and has been around since Android 15 first launched. Despite a slightly glitchy start, Google has since ironed out the kinks, and it seems to be working smoothly now. As long as you have a phone that runs Android 15 or higher, you should be able to use this feature. Some non-Pixel phones may not have the feature.

Private Space lets you create a separate space on your Pixel device where you can install apps with another Google account. This lets you keep things like internet browsing history and app history completely separate. Here's how you can set up a Private Space on your Pixel.

How to create a Private Space on your Pixel

1. Open the Settings app on your Pixel phone.

2. Select Security and privacy.

3. Select Private space under the Privacy section.

4. Tap the SET UP button.

5. Create or sign in to a different Google account. You can also use your main Google account, but that defeats the purpose of a hidden digital space as your app history will be logged.

6. Set a lock code for your Private Space. This can be the same as or different from your main device lock.

At this point, your Private Space is ready to use. To start using it, head to your app drawer and scroll to the bottom. This is where you'll notice a locked section labeled 'Private' at the bottom.

Once unlocked, you can click the Add button to install hidden apps or store hidden files in the space. This is also where you can fiddle with the Private Space settings outside the main settings menu.

Now, if you want to hide the Private Space itself, that can also be done. Just click the gear icon in the Private Space or head back to the main settings menu and locate the Private Space settings there.

Look for the Hide private space option and toggle it on.

After that, the Private Space won't appear at the bottom of your app drawer anymore. You'll have to search for the keywords "Private Space" in your phone's search bar for it to appear.

Be sure to select a suitable setting for your Private Space's automatic lock settings. You can choose one of three options, choosing to lock the Private Space:

• Every time device locks
• 5 minutes after screen timeout
• Only after device restarts

If you don't set your device to automatically lock your Private Space, it won't be hidden until you have locked it.

A Private Space is like a second user profile on your phone

Having a Private Space is like having a second profile on your Android phone. As long as you sign in to a different Google account for your Private Space, you don't have to worry about any usage history appearing in your phone's main Google account history.

Google automatically adds a few apps to your Private Space once you've set it up. This includes the Play Store and other Google apps, such as Chrome, Photos, Contacts, Camera, Files, Passwords, and even Gemini. You can add apps to this secret space via the Play Store, but unfortunately, apps installed from other sources cannot be added.

Note that if you move files to the Private Space, they are removed from their original location.

If you hide the Private Space, I highly recommend setting it to lock automatically whenever the device locks — just in case you forget to lock it.

What you need to know

• Google is rolling out Pixel Camera version 10.3, which renames the Pro Res Zoom feature on Pixel 10 Pro phones.
• The 100x AI-powered zoom feature on Pixel 10 Pro models is now simply called Pro Zoom in the camera app.
• The name change appears in the Pixel Camera settings, help pages, and Google Store listings for the devices.

Google is rolling out a new update for the Pixel Camera app, and while it doesn't bring major new features, it does simplify the name of the zoom feature on Pixel 10 Pro models.

As first spotted by 9to5Google, Google is rolling out the Pixel Camera app version 10.3 for Pixel phones. The update does not introduce any major UI changes or new features, but the publication noticed that Google has quietly renamed the zoom feature on Pixel 10 Pro models.

When Google launched the Pixel 10 Pro series last year, it introduced an AI-powered 100x zoom feature called Pro Res Zoom. While the Pixel 9 series previously supported up to 30x zoom, the Pixel 10 Pro models increased that to 100x using AI.

Google originally called this feature Pro Res Zoom on Pixel 10 Pro phones, but the company is now renaming it to simply Pro Zoom with the latest Pixel Camera update.

According to the report, the new name appears in Settings > Model download page as well as on the camera help page for the phones. Google has also updated the name on the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL listings in the Google Store.

Pixel Camera version 10.3 first appeared with the Pixel 10a that launched earlier this month and is now rolling out to other Pixel phones as well. You will need to update the app to see the change in your Pixel Camera interface.

It's also worth noting that this isn't the only camera-related change that Google is rolling out this month. In addition to the 10.3 version of the Pixel Camera app, the Android 16 QPR3 update released earlier this month also fixed a camera crash bug that was reportedly affecting Pixel 9 and newer devices.

What you need to know

• Google Store has listed a new 3-in-1 Wasserstein dock that charges a Pixel phone, Pixel Buds, and Pixel Watch 4 together.
• The dock uses USB-C wired charging for the phone and earbuds instead of relying entirely on Qi wireless pads.
• A rotating USB-C pedestal helps align the phone properly even when using thicker or protective cases.
• The charging station supports up to 36W wired charging and is currently available on the Google Store in the U.S.

Google made the Pixel 10 series Qi2 compatible, which means it works with Qi2 wireless chargers and MagSafe-style accessories. That also means your Pixel can now use many charging docks originally designed for the iPhone. However, the Google Store has a new charging dock that does more than just charge a Pixel phone

As spotted by 9to5Google, the Google Store now lists a new 3-in-1 Wasserstein charging station. The dock is designed to charge a Pixel smartphone, Pixel Buds, and the Pixel Watch 4 at the same time.

The design itself is fairly minimal, featuring a vertical charging USB-C port at the front, a watch charger positioned behind it, and what appears to be one of the first vertical charging stands for the Pixel Buds.

That design is also what makes the dock interesting. Instead of relying entirely on wireless charging pads, the Wasserstein station uses wired charging for the phone and Pixel Buds, along with the charging pins for the Pixel Watch 4.

The phone sits on a vertical USB-C pedestal at the front, where you plug it in directly. While this may feel slightly less convenient than standard Qi pads, it can still be useful in certain setups. There is also a rotating knob on the back that lets you adjust the angle of the USB-C connector so it can work with different cases.

The dock supports up to 36W wired charging and is available now through the Google Store in the U.S. A listing also exists on Amazon, though it is currently out of stock there.

Android Central's Take

I like that the new Wasserstein charging station prioritizes wired charging over wireless charging. While the Pixel 10 series supports Qi2 wireless charging, relying on wireless charging every day can still add extra heat and stress to the battery.

That is why I appreciate that this dock uses USB-C charging instead. It feels like a more practical approach for everyday use. Hopefully, more charging docks start adopting a similar design going forward.

What you need to know

• Google detailed its patch notes for its Pixel line's March security update.
• The patch, which contains a wealth of fixes, focuses on the graphical issues that have continued to plague the Pixel 10 series.
• Google's GPU issues with the Pixel 10 series stretch back to last year when it committed to solving what's gone wrong.

Google's had a busy week, and that's going to continue as Pixel users can expect a huge batch of fixes to arrive.

Google's Pixel patch notes announced the arrival of its March 2026 security patch for eligible devices. This update is rolling out for users with a Pixel 6 up to the Pixel 10a. The phones are all synced up with versions this time, as Google says everyone should look out for vCP1A.260305.016. This patch holds a plethora of Pixel fixes, as Google is still focused on several display and graphical issues.

Google states that it's rolling out a fix for an occasional screen freeze that would render the Pixel 10 series unusable for a time. Another fix focuses on the occasional "fuzzy" or "incorrect" display behavior that the Pixel 10 series also suffered. System crashes, a background blur issue after accessing All Apps, and improvements to the Pixel 10's GPU performance are included, too.

For the Pixel's framework, Google states it's fixing UI freezes, a device crash during startup problem, and an "incorrectly reported battery status" when using a wireless charger. This issue, once more, was reported to have plagued Pixel 10 series users.

The remainder of the patch notes for March are as follows:

• Fix for a delay in displaying the speaker icon when adjusting audio settings
• Fix for a delay in displaying the speaker icon when adjusting audio settings
• Fix for an issue that caused the camera service to crash, improving overall camera stability
• Fix for an issue that could cause an application to get stuck after quickly using recent apps and navigating home
• Fix for the delay experienced when opening the audio output selector after playing music in the background
• Fix for unexpected device instability that could cause temporary loss of cellular service
• General improvements for network connection stability and performance in certain conditions

Oh, the Pixel 10

The Pixel 10's graphics issues stretch back to late last year, as Google reportedly committed to rolling out consistent GPU updates for the series. While the Tensor G5 runs cooler than its predecessor, the chip is still lacking in its performance gains when tested on high-end games. Additionally, users with the series report lag and freezing while gaming due to the GPU's performance.

Google has done just that; it's rolled out GPU fixes, and January saw its largest update to date for it. The company labeled them as "general fixes" for the Pixel 10's GPU problems; however, those issues persist.

What you need to know

• Google details a set of updates rolling out for its Pixel phones this month, such as "Find the Look" for Circle to Search, alongside the added "Try On."
• At a Glance adds several bite-sized alerts for your commute, Google Finance data, and Sports scores.
• The Pixel Watch expands one-handed gestures to the Pixel Watch 3, adds Earthquake alerts, and rolls out Express Pay.

It's March, and with that comes Google's latest Pixel Drop that's packed with several new goodies users will soon unpack on their devices.

There are two major parts of this Pixel Drop for March, as Google informs us in a press release. The first concerns its Pixel phones, which are primed to receive a significant update to Circle to Search's fashion searching capabilities. According to Google, Circle to Search will feature "Find the Look." Individual pieces found on an outfit while searching can be identified with this feature. Additionally, Google says it's placing its virtual Try On directly in Circle to Search.

Once you're done discovering what you might like, you can quickly "try it on" and make that decision afterward. These were features the company recently announced for the Galaxy S26 series during Unpacked. These two updates are headed for the Pixel 10 series this month.

The next of updates concerns At a Glance. Google states this convenient feature for seeing quick, bite-sized pieces of information on your device is set to pick up three additions: My commute, Sports scores, and Finance. For "My Commute," Google states you'll see At a Glance alerts on your home and lock screen about "real-time transit updates."

Sports scores for "all followed teams" will be displayed in real-time, alongside "end-of-day" updates for those following data from their Google Finance watchlist.

On the AI front, Gemini is bringing its "task assistance" to users, giving them the ability to start UI automations. Elsewhere, "restaurant recommendations" head to Magic Cue. Google says, "your Pixel proactively suggests a search for restaurants, giving you tailored results in an instant."

Pixel phone users will soon find custom icons. These icons are AI-generated, giving users the choice of six icon styles. This is headed to the Pixel 6 and newer phones, foldables, too. As a bit of fun, Google's bringing a pop of yellow to Pixel phones with a SpongeBob SquarePants theme pack. This is stated to be available for Pixel 6 and newer phones.

These updates for Pixel phones should begin arriving throughout March.

A drop for the Pixel Watch

Consumers with a Pixel Watch should prepare for an update in March, too. Google explains that it plans to roll out several "instant" alerts for users that cover a range of aspects. The company states, "Pixel Watch works proactively to secure your phone, with instant alerts if you accidentally leave it behind and an automatic lock on your phone the moment you move out of range." Moreover, this update pairs your connected phone and Pixel Watch to run faster identity checks.

One-handed gestures are expanding to the Pixel Watch 3, a feature the Pixel Watch 4 received in December. The safety side of the Pixel Watch is leveling up with Earthquake alerts. Google says these are "standalone" alerts that will notify users of an impending earthquake, which will hopefully reach you right before the shaking starts. Satellite SOS, a Pixel Watch 4 feature, is expanding to more regions, such as Europe, Canada, Hawaii, and Alaska.

Find Hub on Pixel Watch is arriving in March. Users can quickly find their misplaced devices directly from their wrist. Google states this is becoming available for the Pixel Watch and "other WearOS devices."

Lastly, the Pixel Watch's March update brings Express Pay. Users can truly sit hands-free with their watches, as flipping your wrist to show your watch to a shop's NFC scanner will automatically open the Wallet app for payment. Pixel Watch 2 and newer models will have access to this.

Android Central's Take

There's a few updates for the Pixel series this month that I'm happy to see rolling in. Google's upgrades for Circle to Search, looping in "Try On" is a welcome addition. It'll most likely save users some extra steps during their research. At a Glance is becoming a little more useful by expanding its capabilities, which is always a plus in my book (especially for sports scores). However, it's no surprise to see a few of these updates highlighting the existence of AI to "help the user." These are case by case, personally. Although, the ease of "Express Pay" for the Pixel Watch? I love.

One of my favorite features of the Google Pixel Tablet is its ability to turn into a clock, weather station, Google Photos slideshow, and even a smart home control center while docked on its charging stand. Google upgraded all Pixels with this functionality some time ago, but it turns out Pixels have even more awesome alarm clock-like functions than I initially realized.

The Google Pixel 10 series particularly brings out this feature with its built-in Pixelsnap magnets, which can easily attach to a supported wireless charger to ensure your Pixel doesn't slide off the charger in the middle of the night. You don't need a wireless charger to get all the best alarm clock functions to work, but they usually work best since the best Pixelsnap chargers usually prop the phone up at an angle that's easy to see from your pillow.

Let's begin by enabling the handy "screen saver" function on your Pixel when you charge it.

Bringing back the 90's screen saver

I audibly laughed the first time Google reintroduced the screen saver functionality in Android 7, as it brought back memories of watching flying toasters move across the screen on my childhood Windows 95 PC. But modern screen savers aren't just there to prevent your screen from burn-in; they serve a much more practical function.

They're designed to deliver glanceable information while your phone is charging, and they can come in handy on your bedside table. I've included some photos of the default options above, but find that I prefer the simple "Everyday Clock" option for a nighttime clock. Note that you can place the phone in landscape or portrait mode and your Pixel will rotate the display, as needed.

Here's how to enable the Pixel screen saver:

1.) Open system settings. You can do this from the app drawer on the home screen, or by pulling down on your status bar twice, then tapping the settings gear at the bottom.

2.) Navigate to Display & Touch.

3.) Tap Screen saver.

4.) Tap the toggle next to Use screen saver.

5.) Tap When to show.

6.) Select Restrict to wireless charging if you only want the screen saver to appear when wirelessly charging the phone. This is best if you're using it like an alarm clock.

7.) Go back to the main screen saver settings and toggle Low light mode if you only want the screen saver to turn on at night when the room is dark.

Now that you have the screen saver enabled, it's time to customize it! Google currently offers 5 different options for screen savers: Everyday Clock (digital), Google Photos, Home Controls, Pilot Bold Clock (analog), and Weather.

All of these options can be customized, including the theme to keep things extra dark at night. Once you've found the screen saver style you like, click the Customize button on the selected screen saver's tile. Then, you'll tap Theme at the bottom. I recommend selecting the Auto theme, as it'll automatically switch between light and dark depending on what your phone is using.

Now, when you dock your Google Pixel phone onto a wireless charging dock (or wired, if that's your preference), it'll automatically display the screen saver when the screen goes to sleep. If you're having trouble getting the screen saver to work, lock your phone, then turn the screen on while it's still locked before you plug it in or dock it.

This will ensure the screen saver starts once the screen goes to sleep again. This really shouldn't ever happen, but I've seen it be a bit buggy from time to time, and this seemed to always work for me.

Now for the "alarm" part

OK, so now your Pixel is showing a clock, the weather, or something else when it's docked, but how about that "alarm" part of the equation? Turns out, Pixel software supports a ton of mega awesome alarm functions, including playing white noise or music at bed time, slowly waking you up with a sunrise alarm, and even showing you the weather forecast for the day once the alarm goes off.

This kind of functionality is not only fun, but it's also the best way to slowly wake up and feel refresh in the morning in a more natural way. You can choose to enable bedtime functions, wake-up functions, or both. Here's how you enable everything:

1.) Open the clock app.

2.) Tap the Bedtime tab at the bottom.

3.) We'll start by enabling bedtime functions. Under the Schedule section, tap Bedtime.

4.) Select your preferred bedtime, any days you want to select (the whole week is selected by default), and any other options you like here. Hit Next when you're satisfied.

5.) Now, tap the Wake-up section and select the time and days you want to be woken up.

6.) I prefer the Sunrise alarm option, which will slowly illuminate the screen and gradually increase the alarm's volume over a period of a few minutes. This emulates the feeling of a sunrise, birds chirping, etc.

7.) You can also select Weather forecast here to have your Pixel give you a forecast after you've dismissed the alarm. Hit Next when you're done.

8.) Now you can select Sleep sounds from the main menu. If you've already chosen a sleep sound, tap the Choose another sound button to reselect things.

9.) From here, you can select one of the built-in sounds or use your favorite music service like YouTube Music, Spotify, Apple Music, and more. I used YouTube Music and searched for White Noise for Sleeping 12 Hours.

Now you've got a bonafide alarm clock replacement, complete with sleep sounds, a sunrise alarm, and customizable display. It's a huge improvement over the classic digital or analog options, especially since it ensures that your phone is fully charged and ready to go by the time you wake up.

Before you go, may I make one more setting suggestion? Adaptive Charging will help prolong your Pixel's battery longevity by only charging to full right before your alarm goes off, ensuring that it doesn't get overcharged. To enable adaptive charging, follow these steps:

1.) Open system settings.

2.) Tap the search bar at the top, then type in charging.

3.) Tap Adaptive Charging from the list.

4.) Enable Use charging optimization and select Adaptive Charging from the list below.

Now, your Pixel is ready to go by morning with a fully recharged battery for both you and your phone. Restricting charging to 80% max has been proven to further prolong battery health, which might be something to think about if you plan to hold on to your phone for four or more years before upgrading. Sweet dreams!

What you need to know

• Samsung's new Screenshot Analyzer automatically sorts screenshots into smart categories.
• The feature can take you back to the original source of a screenshot with one tap.
• Screenshot Analyzer works directly inside the Gallery app, not as a separate app.

If you've been jealous of the Pixel Screenshots app on newer Google Pixel phones, Samsung has introduced something arguably better on the new Galaxy S26 phones.

The Samsung Galaxy S26 series is finally official, and as always, Samsung has packed the new Galaxy phones with a flood of AI features. In fact, Samsung is branding the Galaxy S26 as an "Agentic AI" phone and is even allowing Gemini to perform tasks directly on your device. We also saw the debut of the new Bixby with One UI 8.5 on the Galaxy S26 series.

However, one of the more underrated Galaxy AI upgrades is how Samsung now handles screenshots inside the Gallery app.

The company has introduced a new Screenshot Analyzer feature on the Galaxy S26 series that automatically scans and sorts your screenshots into categories such as boarding passes, chats, web pages, QR codes, social media posts, and more (via Android Authority).

But it doesn't stop there. Screenshot Analyzer not only categorizes screenshots, but it also allows you to return to the original source from which the screenshot was taken.

For example, if you took a screenshot of a boarding pass from your email, you can tap Go to source on the Galaxy S26, and it will take you back to the original email. Samsung says the feature will also work within chat apps, although it has not clarified whether it'll jump to the exact message in a thread or simply open the app.

That said, this feature arguably one-ups Pixel Screenshots since it works directly inside the Gallery app. Samsung hasn't relied on using a separate app for it, as Google did.

We have not gone hands-on with the feature yet, but expect us to dive deeper into One UI 8.5 and even more new Galaxy AI features in the coming days.

Android Central's Take

If you're anything like me, you probably have thousands of screenshots on your phone just sitting there unsorted. Finding the right one can be frustrating, especially on non-Pixel devices.

The Galaxy S26 feature looks genuinely useful, particularly if the "Go to source" feature works seamlessly. That is something most other tools, including Pixel Screenshots, cannot fully replicate.

What you need to know

• Rumors claim that Google is in development of a proper Now Playing app for the Pixel-exclusive feature on the Play Store.
• While the report is barebones, what's evident is that the app will host many features users remember, while also adding "more."
• A previous rumor suggests that Google is working on Now Playing improvements, such as a persistent "searching for song" notification.

Google is supposedly working on making a useful Pixel-exclusive music feature a proper app in the future.

A post by 9to5Google highlights its deep dive into the Android System Intelligence's latest version, which reportedly held insights about "Now Playing." This is a Pixel-exclusive feature that lets the device listen for songs and identify them for the user (think Shazam, but Pixel). It's been reported that Google is preparing to update Now Playing's icon to a music note set inside a magnifying glass.

More than that, the publication found a notification in the code. To be specific, the publication discovered an "upgrade_notification_action," which will supposedly instruct users to go to the Play Store for this new "Now Playing app." An alleged description states that this "new home" will house your songs and song history.

However, the description mentions "other features," though it's not entirely clear what those could be. This discovery is quite barebones, as the publication couldn't unearth the app's would-be design and the "other features" its description teased.

What song was that?

Perhaps Google is shifting its focus toward the Pixel-exclusive feature, as this is the second time in half a year (give or take) that Now Playing has been mentioned. Last summer, there was a rumor that Google was working on improving the Now Playing experience for Pixel users by including a new option in its quick settings. This option would let users immediately activate the feature's song identification function, so that audio doesn't slip past them.

Additionally, the tipster at the time noticed that Google was also working on a persistent "searching for song..." notification in your notification panel. Perhaps this would evolve into showcasing the most recent song the feature has identified, in case you're taking a gander. The alleged code's brief mention of "other features" is a little more than interesting now.

This feature has continued to play an important role in Google's phones, as even the Pixel 10 Pro XL features it. Now Playing's database is pretty light, coming in at under 500MB. Moreover, it hardly hogs up your battery life.

Android Central's Take

I don't have a Pixel phone; however, I know someone who does. The amount of times that I've been told to look up a song because their phone identified it, but they weren't paying attention is hilarious. The songs end up being a complete vibe, and it's because of Google's Now Playing feature that we can both vibe together with the music. Imagine not really paying attention to a song, but the part that you did listen to hooked you—yet you don't know the title or the lyrics. That's one area that features like this that Google slips in make them so handy to have.

Presidents' Day is nearly here, which means you might get a long weekend, and if you're lucky, a look at some of 2026's first great Android phone deals. 

Many of the best phones we've ever used are currently on sale for the holiday, whether you're searching for a lightweight Samsung device, an AI-equipped Pixel, or a powerful OnePlus phone. Keep reading for my TOP 5 phone deals available during this week's Presidents' Day sales. 

Most of these offers are for unlocked devices, but I'm also adding a few deals that could get you a free (or nearly free) phone when you add an eligible line to your wireless service. Whatever you're looking for this week, I'm pretty confident that you'll find the Android phone of your dreams below. 

The TOP 5 Android phone deals during Presidents' Day weekend

What you need to know

• Google has officially teased the Pixel 10a, but early signs point to a very safe and uninspiring upgrade overall.
• The Pixel 10a launches on February 18, with a familiar design that looks almost identical to last year's Pixel 9a.
• Leaks suggest minor refinements like a flatter camera bump and software features, but no meaningful design changes.

It's Pixel time. After weeks of leaks and speculation, Google has officially teased the Pixel 10a, and from what we've seen so far, it looks like it's shaping up to be a fairly boring upgrade.

The season for new smartphones is here, and while much of the attention has been on the upcoming Galaxy S26 series, other devices like the Nothing Phone 4a lineup and the Pixel 10a are also expected to launch soon.

A leak last month suggested that Google was planning to launch the Pixel 10a in the second half of February or March, and that now appears to be confirmed. Google has officially posted the Pixel 10a teaser on the Google Store page, confirming that the phone will launch on February 18.

The teaser shared on YouTube shows the Pixel 10a in what looks like the same flagship, slightly tacky blue color Google used for the base Pixel 10 last year. It also reveals the full design of the device, which is unsurprisingly very similar to last year's Pixel 9a. Google has also confirmed that the Pixel 10a will be available for preorders on February 18.

Before Google's official teaser, a major leak from Evan Blass had already shown us the Pixel 10a in full. Alongside sharing the same imagery used in Google's teaser, Blass also revealed the phone from multiple angles. The images also suggested that we could see features like Gemini Live and Call Assist on the Pixel 10a.

One small change from the Pixel 9a to the Pixel 10a, based on current renders, is an even flatter camera design. The Pixel 9a's rear camera was already much flatter than other Pixel models, though it still protruded slightly. The Pixel 10a appears to make the camera almost completely flat. That said, we'll know more once we have the device in hand.

Android Central's Take

It's honestly getting a little boring. While Google made meaningful improvements with the Pixel 10 series and was rightly praised for them, the Pixel 10a looks like a very underwhelming follow-up.

Many of the Pixel 9a's issues, including the chunky front bezels and uninspired design, remain unchanged, even if there are some internal upgrades. I'll reserve final judgment until I've used it, but for now, this phone is not doing much to excite me

What you need to know

• Google's February 2026 Pixel update is small, likely holding back major changes for the upcoming Android 16 QPR3 release.
• The update skips Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 series phones, hinting at a shift away from monthly updates for older devices.
• Google says affected Pixel phones will remain security compliant, but offers little clarity on future update frequency.

Google has released a new February 2026 update for Pixel devices, but it only includes small changes. It appears Google is holding back larger updates for next month alongside the Android 16 QPR3 release, but this update also confirms a shift for older Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 series devices.

After a buggy start to the year with the January 2026 update, which caused Wi-Fi and Bluetooth issues on some Pixel devices before being fixed, Google is back to releasing its monthly Android updates for Pixel devices on schedule.

The company is rolling out a new update for Pixel devices, ranging from the Pixel 7a, Pixel Tablet, and the original Pixel Fold to the Pixel 8 and Pixel 10 series, carrying the build number BP4A.260205.

The update is around 20 MB in size and is already available for compatible Pixel owners. You can check for it by going to Settings > System > Software updates > System update > Check for update.

Google seems to be saving the real changes for later

As for fixes this time, the update does not bring much that is new. There are no UI or feature changes overall, but it does include a high-severity vulnerability fix for the VPU driver.

The lack of major changes suggests Google is waiting for the Android 16 QPR3 release next month, which is expected to bring features like the ability to hide the At a Glance widget and a controllable flashlight brightness slider.

That said, while this update is small, it confirms a notable change for older Pixel devices.

A small update with a bigger message underneath

If you have noticed, the February update is not listed for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, nor for the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro. The missing updates were first spotted by Droid-Life, which asked Google about the missing support. The company replied that these devices will "remain security compliant" for their full support period, which doesn't offer much clarity.

The publication also noticed a pattern. Pixel 6 devices appear to have moved to a quarterly update schedule after missing the October and November updates last year and receiving only the December update, followed by skipping January and February as well.

Similarly, the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro seem to have shifted to a quarterly cadence by skipping the January and February updates.

Google has not officially announced this change, but the pattern is becoming clearer. There are also reports of Google moving these devices to a risk-based schedule, where updates are pushed only when necessary. As it stands, though, it appears these phones will no longer receive monthly updates.

Android Central's Take

This is a big shift. Google has so far delivered monthly updates for all its devices, and while the company has never explicitly promised a monthly schedule, that has been its practice. With these recent updates, Google appears to be spacing out updates for older devices, which is understandable given the growing number of phones it needs to support.

What you need to know

• Pixel phones are expected to see strong growth in 2026 even as the global smartphone market faces a YoY decline.
• Rising memory and storage costs are hitting low- and mid-tier phones hardest as data centers compete for components.
• Counterpoint now expects Google to be the biggest winner in 2026 due to AI features and wider global traction.

Google Pixel phones may not be a household name yet, but the company’s big smartphone bet appears to be paying off. Pixel shipments are expected to see strong growth in 2026, even as the broader smartphone market faces slower demand.

According to Counterpoint Research's latest report, memory and storage are becoming central to both performance and cost structures in the smartphone industry. According to the report, components that once made up under 10% of a phone's total cost now account for 20% or more of the overall bill of materials.

At the same time, data centers are competing with smartphone makers for the same memory components, driving prices higher. This has hit low- and mid-tier phones the hardest, as brands previously relied on cheaper memory. Nothing CEO Carl Pei recently warned about this exact issue.

Google Pixel might benefit most from a tough 2026

As a result, global smartphone shipments are expected to decline 6.1% YoY in 2026. The report notes that Chinese OEMs, like Xiaomi, Oppo, and others, are likely to be hit the hardest, while Apple and Samsung are better positioned. Surprisingly, Counterpoint's latest forecast suggests Google could emerge as the biggest beneficiary.

Counterpoint has raised its 2026 growth forecast for Tensor SoC shipments, and by extension Pixel phones, from 13.1% to 18.9%. The firm says Google is expected to see the strongest growth thanks to AI differentiation and expanding traction beyond the U.S. and Japan.

Samsung could also see solid gains due to its upcoming 2nm Exynos 2600 chipset for the Galaxy S26 series. Meanwhile, companies like Qualcomm and MediaTek could face pressure from rising component costs.

Android Central's Take

I've been a firm believer in Pixel phones for the past few years. The jump from the Pixel 6 series to the Pixel 10 lineup has been massive, and this report reinforces that progress. Google has been steadily investing in its smartphone business, and 2026 could be the year those long-term bets finally pay off.

Pixel phones are filled with a ton of AI features that make them a better experience for me than other Android phones. However, one of the most basic challenges my parents kept running into had nothing to do with AI. They struggled with simply using the phone itself. Getting back to the home screen, switching between apps, or even figuring out where they were felt unnecessarily difficult.

I've always felt that Pixel phones use slightly smaller fonts than other Android smartphones, and while that is fine for me, it's a completely different story for ageing eyes. For my parents, the text just felt too small to comfortably read most of the time. I needed to find a way to make their phones work for them.

• See the best Google Pixel deals of February 2026

Sure, you can adjust certain settings by manually increasing text size or changing the font, but those are menus older users rarely dig into on their own. As a result, everyday navigation and readability often become bigger hurdles than using any of the helpful built-in features.

It was only recently that I realized Pixel phones come with a simple toggle that makes a massive difference. It scales up the entire interface, making everything bigger and easier to see, which is perfect for older users dealing with nearsightedness or general vision issues.

Here's how you can set it up and make your parents' Pixel a lot easier to use.

What is Simple View on Google Pixel phones?

Simple View does not turn your Pixel into an old-school phone with oversized app icons and stripped-down settings. Instead, it lets users continue using their phone normally, with access to all Pixel features, while making the UI and text noticeably larger and easier to read.

It also simplifies navigation by switching to a three-button layout, which is far more intuitive for many people. Here's what changes when you enable Simple View, so you know exactly what to expect:

• Larger text and icon sizes
• Simplified Home screen layout
• Simplified 3-button navigation buttons
• Higher touch sensitivity
• Contact, Clock, and Weather app shortcuts
• High-contrast wallpaper
• Increased App Grid to 4x4 display
• Suggested apps locked

As you can see, Simple View does more than just increase text size and change navigation. It also enables high-contrast wallpaper for improved readability, as well as enables a fixed 4x4 app grid layout, which makes it easier for users to quickly spot the apps.

How to enable Simple View on Pixel phones

Thankfully, enabling Simple View on a Google Pixel is exactly as easy as it sounds. If you are setting up the device for the first time, you can enable Simple View right during setup so the UI is already larger and easier to read from the moment the user starts using the phone.

During initial setup, on the "Welcome to your Pixel" screen, tap Accessibility, then select Set up with Simple View. This enables the feature straight away and applies all the changes from the beginning.

However, if the phone is already set up, you can still enable Simple View by following these steps:

1. Open the Settings app.

2. Scroll down and select Accessibility.

3. Under the Quick Access section, tap Simple View.

4. Turn on the toggle to Use Simple View.

Once enabled, your Pixel will instantly switch to larger UI elements and automatically enable three-button navigation.

It's worth noting that if you turn on Simple View after setup, you'll miss out on a few extras like the increased app grid size and high-contrast wallpapers. Those options are only available during the initial setup, so if you want the full Simple View experience, you will need to reset the device and enable it during setup.

Overall, Simple View is a small but incredibly useful feature for anyone who struggles with tiny UI elements on modern smartphones. It has made using the Pixel 10 Pro significantly easier for my mom, and it could be just as helpful for your parents, too.

Google always releases a good, better, best line of phones, including, most recently, the Pixel 10, 10 Pro, and 10 Pro XL. Usually, a few months later, the company launches an A series device, a more affordable model with a pared-down feature set. The Pixel 10 series launched in August 2025, and the Pixel 10a launched in February 2026 with a full release in March.

Should you go with the base model or wait for this more affordable alternative? As with previous-generation Pixel phones, the Pixel 10a gives you plenty of bang for your buck. It's not a massive step-up from the Pixel 9a, though, so your bigger question isn't whether to get the Pixel 10 or Pixel 10a, but whether to get (or upgrade to) the Pixel 10a versus the Pixel 9a.

Google Pixel 10a vs. Pixel 10: Design and basics

The Google Pixel 10a has been announced for pre-order, coming in March 2026, just as the previous generation Pixel 9a was announced in March 2025, before Google's usual I/O conference date in May.

The Google Pixel 10a looks similar to the Pixel 9a, with the same minimal back design and capsule camera module. It is, however, a smidge thicker, which means the camera sits flush into the body, and it's 3 grams lighter. It's also made with more recycled material than any other Pixel A series phone, worth noting if you care deeply about the environment. It comes in Lavender, Berry, Fog, and Obsidian, all colors revealed in earlier leaks.

It has a 6.3 inches pOLED display with adaptive 60-120Hz refresh rate and 2,424 x 1,080 resolution with up to 3,000 nits peak brightness. It also retains the same IP68 rating for protection against dust and water. It has newer Corning Gorilla Glass 7i cover glass with a fingerprint-resistant coating, along with a composite matte back and aluminum frame.

As expected, the battery is unchanged from the Pixel 9a at 5,100 mAh, lasting all day. The Pixel 9a supports only 23W wired charging, and the Pixel 10a is said to reach 50% in 30 minutes, alongside faster 10W wireless charging. Unfortunately, there's no Pixelsnap Qi2 charging built in, as with the rest of the Pixel 10 series, but it is Qi-certified for wireless charging. It's worth noting that you do get satellite SOS with this phone, the first for an "A" series device.

Storage is 128GB or 256GB, the same as the Pixel 9a, and it's not expandable, which is expected since no recent Pixel device has a memory card slot. As with other Pixel devices, Google supports this phone with seven years of software and security updates, alongside periodic Pixel Drops.

By comparison, the already available Pixel 10 looks virtually identical to the Pixel 9, with a polished back glass, satin finish, metal accents, and the same flat sides, rounded corners, and oval camera bar. It comes in Indigo, Frost, Lemongrass, and Obsidian with a 6.3-inch OLED Actua display with 2,424 x 1,080 resolution and 60-120Hz refresh rate. With Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 cover glass, you get up to 2,000 nits HDR and 3,000 nits peak brightness. In his review of the Pixel 10, Derrek Lee says the panel is much brighter than its predecessor.

Equipped with a 4,970mAh battery, you get 24+ hours of battery life, up to 100 hours in Extreme Battery Saver mode. It also supports fast charging with a 30W charger (sold separately) and wireless charging via Pixelsnap with Qi2 certification. It comes with either 128GB or 256GB of storage, seven years of software and security updates, and Pixel Drops with new features throughout the year.

Overall, the Google Pixel 10a stands up to the Pixel 10 in most respects, and even has a bigger battery. It's really a wonder why you would choose the Pixel 10 over the Pixel 10a when looking at these basic specs. But let's dive further.

Google Pixel 10a vs. Pixel 10: The specs

Let's consider how these phones might sit side by side in terms of specs based on what we can speculate about the Pixel 10a.

Google Pixel 10a vs. Pixel 10: Productivity, AI, and performance

When it comes to performance, the Google Pixel 10a runs Android 16, but it oddly retains the same Tensor G4 processor as the Pixel 9a, which is somewhat disappointing. You do still get some AI features, though, and these should run well on the G4 processor alongside the 8GB RAM for multitasking, light-to-moderate gaming, and other bandwidth-intensive activities.

So, the Pixel 10a has built-in Gemini and features like Circle to Search, productivity, and photo features that leverage AI, and more. This includes other features like Call Screen, theft detection, Live Translate, Call Assist, Gemini Live, and more.

The Google Pixel 10 has 12GB RAM, which, combined with the Google Tensor G5 chip, results in snappy performance, says Derrek Lee in his review. While this chip doesn't rival more powerful options like the Snapdragon 8 Elite, it will do for most users. However, you won't be able to enjoy heavy gaming on this phone, so if that is a priority for you, you'll have to step up to the Pixel 10 Pro or Pro XL anyway. We haven't fully tested it yet, but it's likely the Pixel 10a isn't a device for serious gamers either.

Of course, the Pixel 10 comes with all the latest Google AI features as well, including deep Gemini integration, Voice Translate, and more. Derrek says Voice Translate in particular really impresses him: he can speak English while others hear his actual voice speaking in their native language. There are also new features like Magic Cue that offer proactive help as the phone essentially gets to know you. It's still a work in progress, but it has tons of potential. Magic Cue is not available in the Pixel 10a.

Overall, the Pixel 10a is a step down in performance from the Pixel 10, though not by much. You can still access AI features, multitask, get work done, and enjoy entertainment. But neither is the most powerful and feature-rich in the line.

Google Pixel 10a vs. Pixel 10: Camera and camera features

If taking photos is a priority, you'll be pleased to know that the Pixel 10a has a decent dual-camera system, including a 48MP wide lens and a 13MP ultra-wide lens, alongside a 13MP front camera. This isn't fantastic, but it's not bad either. The main Quad PD dual pixel 48MP camera has an 82° field-of-view (FOV), while the 13MP ultra-wide 120° FOV. Both have Super Res Zoom up to 8x.

You can also access fun photo editing and assist features, like Camera Coach (new for the Pixel 10 series), Add Me, Night Sight, Face Unblur, Magic Eraser, Best Take, Photo Unblur, and more.

By comparison, the Google Pixel 10 has a 48MP wide camera, 13MP ultra-wide, 10.8MP telephoto, and 10.5MP front selfie camera with autofocus. The only real difference here is the addition of a 5x telephoto lens with 20x Super Res Zoom, which might be worthwhile for those who love taking nature photos, scenic images, or shots of kids' sports games or concerts from afar. Of course, it has all those aforementioned AI-enhanced photo-capturing and editing features as well.

Derrek says the telephoto lens on the Pixel 10 feels more capable than the zoom sensors in other phones he's tested, like the Samsung Galaxy S25. Photos taken with the Google Pixel 10 are crisp with true-to-life colors, he adds. You can probably expect a similar experience with the Pixel 10a, but we can't say for certain just yet until we've tried it.

It's worth noting that the Pixel 10a has a better front camera, which could be worthwhile for content creators (and anyone who loves taking selfies!). Considering it has all the same photo capture and editing features, including ones like Camera Coach, the Pixel 10a is a pretty solid performer that doesn't make too many concessions when it comes to camera specs.

Google Pixel 10a vs. Pixel 10: Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Google Pixel 10a vs. Pixel 10 will likely leave you with the same dilemma as with previous generation base-level Pixel phones versus the affordable a series. In most cases, it comes down to minor upgrades. Between the Google Pixel 9 vs. 9a, for example, the biggest differences are more RAM, faster charging, a more premium and durable design, and improved cameras. But the Pixel 9a is still a solid phone with impressive specs.

Similarly, the Google Pixel 10a pares some things down in terms of design and durability, RAM, and the chip. But it also has a bigger battery (albeit no Pixelsnap wireless charging) and a better front camera. It's also pretty similar in design.

Given this, you might find that it offers better value at the $499 price, the same price at which the Pixel 9a launched. By comparison, the Google Pixel 10 starts at $799, though there are plenty of Pixel 10 deals available. The upgrades probably won't be worth the extra $300 for most.

All that considered, if you aren't looking for the best of the best and all the top features, which you probably aren't if you're considering the Pixel 10 instead of the Pixel 10 Pro or Pixel 10 Pro XL, then it will be worth it to get the Google Pixel 10a. It probably has all the features and specs you need, at a much more palatable price, ranking it among the best Pixel phones.

If you already have the Pixel 9a, it isn't worth it to upgrade just yet. But if you're looking for an affordable Android device with decent specs, the Google Pixel 10a is it: skip the base Pixel 10 and go with this one instead.

What you need to know

• Users on Reddit, X, and Google's Pixel community are reporting Wi-Fi and Bluetooth issues following a recent patch.
• Users claim that Bluetooth and Wi-Fi aren't working as intended (typically turning off), while others highlight "Search" issues and more.
• January hasn't been kind, as Pixel 10 users already grappled with a Play Services update that made everything sluggish.

Update

A user has informed Android Central that a potential fix for these Pixel 10 and 8 issues could be to sideload the latest January patch OTA. In their experience, the user reports that the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth issues have vanished, though sideloading updates is a method not everyone is familiar with.

If you are comfortable sideloading OTA patches, users can do so on Google's Developer site. The user downloaded the EMEA variant, as they are from the U.K. For those in the U.S., they can simply use the 16.0.0 (BP4A.260105.004.E1, Jan 2026) version.

As always, if you're hesitant about sideloading, you can always wait until Google rolls out a patch on its own. There's no telling when that could happen, though. The good thing is that the company is aware of the issues plaguing its Pixels.

The original article can be read below.

January hasn't been kind to Google's Pixels, and it looks like that's going to continue, as new reports mark new issues.

Android Central received a tip about a series of reports from Pixel 10 users recently, all of which highlight struggles following the January update. There's a thread on the Google Pixel subreddit that breaks one user's experiences down quite well. The user states they've encountered "errors" on their Pixel 10 following an update this past week. This could be the January security patch, but nothing's certain.

The user states Bluetooth "no longer turns on," and they're struggling with Wi-Fi. Specifically, their report says, "'Internet' setting freezes in the settings app. It'll eventually load, but not able to successfully turn on wifi or show any networks to connect to."

Other issues include the "Search" function in settings no longer working as intended, their device is unable to charge off "lower power" methods, such as a USB port on their table, and their Pixel 10's battery seems to drain a little quicker. Another report from the Pixel support community highlights similar problems—but for a Pixel 8.

A user with a Pixel 10 attempted some troubleshooting: clearing cache, resetting connectivity, and booting in safe mode, but nothing has helped. While users struggle, hopefully, help is on the way, as one user highlights, Google is aware of the issue.

It's happening... again

From the timeline we've seen, it appears that Google's January security patch could be the culprit. The patch arrived on January 13, and these patches usually take a little while to make their rounds and hit every device. The patch was (originally) seen in a bright light since it was finally delivering a much-needed GPU update for the Pixel 10.

However, days before that, users with two generations of Pixels (10 and 9) were already reporting problems after a Google Play Services update. Users claimed their devices were booting up slowly and that the Pixel Launcher was unresponsive at times.

Android Central's Take

It goes without saying that the user frustration that I've found on social media and on Google's forums makes sense. There's a long history here that we can follow together regarding the Pixel 10's struggles, and Pixel struggles in general. At times, it feels like an otherwise well-made phone is watered down by the series of problems it often has. What's good here is that Google is, at least, aware of the problem. Now, users just have to wait for that fix to arrive. It's also not entirely clear how widespread these new problems are, but these reports are concerning enough.

Original article follows:

What you need to know

• Several Pixel users reported that their device was leaking microphone audio to callers when the Take a Message voicemail feature was triggered.
• Reports suggest the issue affects Pixels from the Pixel 4 to Pixel 10 across regions like the US, UK, and Australia.
• Users noticed the green mic indicator turning on during voicemail, confirming unintended audio sharing with callers.
• Google investigated the issue and has since disabled the feature on Pixel 4 and Pixel 5 series phones.

A strange bug on Google Pixel phones has surfaced that may be leaking your audio to callers when a call is sent to voicemail.

Google Pixels come packed with useful Phone app features, like blocking spam calls before they even ring, holding calls for you during long wait times, and Take a Message. The latter lets AI take over and tell callers you can't pick up, records their voicemail, and then transcribes it so you can quickly see what they said and decide how to respond.

While Take a Message sounds genuinely useful, it appears the feature has been behaving oddly over the past few months. According to reports, it may be unintentionally sharing your microphone audio with callers.

As spotted by 9to5Google through multiple Reddit reports, when users rely on Take a Message, their side of the audio sometimes gets transmitted to the caller. To be clear, the feature is supposed to decline the call and record only the caller's message, not capture or share your audio, but that doesn't seem to be the case for some users.

How to turn off Take a Message for now

The issue appears to affect Pixels across multiple generations, from the Pixel 4 series all the way up to the Pixel 10, and the feature is currently available in regions like the US, UK, Ireland, and Australia.

Several users report seeing the green microphone indicator turn on even after the call is routed to Take a Message, suggesting their microphone was active, and audio was being shared without their knowledge. Multiple Reddit threads describe similar behavior.

Google has acknowledged the issue, stating that the team is aware of the reports and is actively investigating. Until a fix rolls out, the safest option is to disable Take a Message entirely.

To do that, open the Phone app on your Pixel, tap the menu button at the top, go to Settings, select Take a Message under the Call Assist section, and turn the feature off.

What you need to know

• Google Pixel testers in the Android 16 QPR3 beta are reporting Microsoft app crashes once again.
• Users state apps such as the Windows app, Outlook, and more are continuously crashing despite a fix being mentioned in the QPR3 Beta 2 changelog.
• Google rolled out the latest beta version last week, and with it came loads of fixes and system improvements; however, users are still suffering.

Google's pushing ahead with its Android 16 QPR development — and once again users are voicing issues with crashing apps.

Over the past few days, enrolled Pixel testers in Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2 are reporting frustrating problems with the software and their apps (via Android Authority). A new thread has appeared on Reddit, with the original poster stating, "The Microsoft Teams crashing issue still persists on Pixel 6A after installing the new QPR3 beta 2." The user proceeded to ask if anyone has come across a more stable fix. Unfortunately, answers varied.

One user (Low_Molasses4720) with a Pixel Fold states that their Microsoft apps have continued to crash over the past few days. Another user, after downloading the update with hope, states that their apps continue to crash.

Many of the responses have remained along these lines, even with other reports coming from Google's Issue Tracker. Users with Pixel 7 series devices report continued crashes with Microsoft work apps, too; reports piled up shortly after the update was launched last week. One Issue Tracker user states, "Issue with MS app crashes is still there. Persists after Outlook reinstall."

Some users are frustrated, as these apps are quite necessary for their daily work. It's worth noting that while some users are experiencing trouble, others aren't. There's one user on Reddit who reports that their Microsoft apps are working fine. The publication noticed that Google acknowledged these issues a few weeks ago, but since the latest beta update, there have been no new responses.

Ongoing problems

Google rolled out Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2 last week, and with it came a huge changelog of fixes for testers. Bug fixes and system improvements were the main highlights, with critical crashes, notification shade glitches, and more among them. The "crash fixes" are what we're focusing on here, as Google tried to implement solutions to a growing problem for users.

Many users, as evident in the recent reports, were experiencing crashes with Microsoft apps in the beta. QPR3 Beta 2 was seen as the savior for them, as Google acknowledged these issues previously, and a fix was included last week. Unfortunately, despite the company's efforts, users are still suffering from these crashes.

It's unclear if what was implemented has reduced this number compared to what it was before.

That latest beta version provided deep divers with loads of code to sift through, with some encountering an "Intrusion" protection feature for users. In other news, Google's January 2026 security patch finally brought that long-awaited GPU fix for the Pixel 10 series.

What you need to know

• Google is working on expanding Magic Cue with new integrations like Google Wallet and Google Tasks on Pixel 10.
• Leaked settings show upcoming support for tickets, passes, and tasks pulled directly from Wallet and Tasks.
• Google has not announced the feature yet, but its presence in settings suggests a rollout could happen soon.

Google is reportedly working on a major upgrade for Magic Cue on the Pixel 10 series, with new integrations like Google Tasks and Google Wallet coming soon, according to a new leak.

Magic Cue on the Pixel 10 is easily one of the best AI features Google has introduced with its latest flagship lineup. It pulls in data from various Google apps on your phone and surfaces relevant information exactly when you need it.

For example, if you've details about an upcoming flight saved in Gmail and you are texting someone about that trip, Magic Cue can surface the relevant flight info right then and there without you having to search for it manually.

Now, according to a leak shared by Telegram user Kieron Quinn (via Android Authority), Google is working on making Magic Cue even more useful. The leak suggests that Magic Cue will soon gain access to data from additional Google apps, including Google Wallet and Google Tasks.

Google is quietly expanding what Magic Cue can do

Toggles for these new integrations reportedly showed up for the user in the Magic Cue settings on a Pixel 10 device. With Wallet and Tasks support, Magic Cue could surface things like boarding passes, tickets, and payment cards from Wallet, along with reminders and to-dos from Google Tasks whenever they are contextually relevant.

These new apps would join an already growing list of Magic Cue integrations. At the moment, Magic Cue can pull data from apps such as Pixel Screenshots, Gmail, Messages, Keep, Contacts, and Calendar, and adding Wallet and Tasks should make it even more powerful.

Google has not officially announced the new integrations yet, and the feature doesn't appear to be live at the moment. That said, the fact that it is already showing up in the settings on a Pixel 10 device suggests it could start rolling out sooner rather than later. We'll keep you updated once Google makes it official.

It's not too difficult to find a T-Mobile deal that gets you a free phone, but an offer that gets you a top-rated Google Pixel flagship AND a pair of wireless earbuds? That's almost unheard of, but it's exactly what's happening over at the carrier's website today.

It works like this: head to T-Mobile's website and buy the Google Pixel 10 with a new line on the Experience More or Experience Beyond plan. Then just add a pair of Pixel Buds 2A to your cart and the full discount will be paid via promo credits over 24 months. You'll still have to cover any applicable sales tax and the $35 activation fee, but then you only have to worry about paying for the unlimited plan. It's as simple as that. 

Get a free Pixel phone AND earbuds when you add a line at T-Mobile

• See all the best T-Mobile deals today

✅Recommended if: you're ready to make a change to your wireless service and would like to get a couple of great devices out of the deal; you want a great 2025 smartphone with versatile cameras and a ton of AI features.

❌Skip this deal if: you're looking for a cheap phone plan; you prefer unlocked phones or trade-in deals.

The Google Pixel 10 boasts a sophisticated design with a 6.3-inch OLED display, outstanding haptics, and Qi2 magnetic charging support straight out of the box, plus you'll enjoy the efficiency of the Tensor G5 chipset with 12GB of RAM. The camera is another area where the Pixel 10 series really shines, as the phone introduces a 5x telephoto sensor and a ton of useful AI features, such as Camera Coach and Auto Best Take. Like the rest of the flagship lineup, the Pixel 10 also guarantees seven years of OS and security upgrades.

The Google Pixel Buds 2A, while not exactly groundbreaking, are nevertheless a solid pair of wireless earbuds with decent noise cancellation, customizable EQ settings, and a comfortable design that you can wear all day. The buds are also built to integrate seamlessly with your Pixel phone, so utilizing features like spatial audio and Gemini have never felt more natural. 

The two wireless plans, on the other hand, give you unlimited talk, text, and premium data on T-Mobile's legendary 5G network, plus international benefits and entertainment perks. You even get a free mobile hotspot and a five-year price guarantee.

Of course, this is T-Mobile we're talking about, so the two unlimited plans that get you the free Pixel devices aren't exactly cheap. But if you were planning to upgrade your wireless service anyway, this is a great way to get equipped with one of the best Android phones AND some of the best wireless coverage in the business.

Google is relatively late to the party when it comes to AI notification summaries, as brands like Apple and Motorola have already rolled out similar features. User responses have been mixed, though, with people reporting inaccurate and unhelpful results. Now, Google is finally rolling out AI notification summaries for Pixel users, and it has a chance to prove that slow and steady wins the race.

The feature works for notifications from popular messaging apps, condensing long chats into more digestible bites. It's all processed on-device, but the feature is disabled by default, so you'll need to manually enable Android's AI notification summaries if you want to see them. Here's how to do it and customize the feature to match your preferences.

Who can use AI notification summaries (and how they work)

Google added AI notification summaries to Android 16 with a Pixel Drop in December 2025. Notably, the feature is only available for Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 10 series phones, excluding the Pixel 9a.

Since the summarization happens on-device, the Pixel 9a's smaller 8GB of RAM is presumably not enough to power this tool. This also guarantees the contents of your notifications are never sent to Google. Additionally, summaries are only available in English.

Notification summaries are designed to work with long messages or group chats from messaging apps like Google Messages, Android Messages, WhatsApp, and others. It's not intended for short texts, so AI summaries will not generate in some cases. AI summaries will only generate if your screen is turned off briefly, and will not appear when you're using your phone.

When a notification is summarized using AI, a sparkle icon will appear beside the generated text. You can tap the summary to reveal the full message.

It's worth noting that a separate AI feature for notifications, Notification Organizer, debuted alongside AI summaries. We have a full guide to using Notification Organizer here if you want to use both AI features together.

How to set up and use Android AI notification summaries

Android 16's AI notification summaries are turned off by default. Enabling the AI-powered recaps is as simple as flipping a toggle in your Android notification settings. However, there's room for customization, as you can pick and choose which app notifications are summarized with AI.

Here's how to set up and customize Android AI notification summaries:

1. Open the Settings app on a Google Pixel phone.

2. Tap the Notifications page and press Notification summaries.

3. Flip the toggle beside Use notification summaries on.

4. Optionally, use the Manage apps page to customize which app notifications are summarized with AI.

Now, your notifications will be summarized as they arrive, especially for long messages and group chats. They'll appear in Android 16's notification shade as usual, with a small icon beside the summaries indicating they are generated with AI.

When to use Android's AI notification summaries

Android 16's AI notification summaries are turned off by default and are incredibly customizable, so you're in full control when and if you use them. If you get a ton of long messages or have lively group chats that are hard to keep track of, notification summaries might be worth enabling. The short, simple AI summaries can let you know whether something needs your attention.

However, since the summaries are generated with AI, they can be inaccurate. It might be worth disabling these summaries for certain apps where accuracy is crucial. If you ever find them unhelpful, these summaries can be turned back off altogether.

What you need to know

• Google's January patch is here, and with it comes GPU fixes for problems Pixel 10 users have been struggling with.
• The post states "general performance" fixes are here for its GPU, alongside touchscreen responsiveness fixes, battery drain, and more.
• Pixel 10 owners reported lag and freezing while gaming with the Pixel 10 in October, forcing the company to commit to consistent GPU updates.

Google's starting the week off strong, as its monthly security patch is rolling out to Pixel phones with a massive fix that we've been waiting for.

Late this morning, Google posted the changelog for its January 2026 security patch on its Pixel community. The patch is rolling out for phones ranging from the Pixel 7a to the Pixel 10 series. All devices are preparing to receive the update marked as vBP4A.260105.004.E1. The main highlight of this patch is that Google is finally rolling out a fix for a series of GPU-related issues that have plagued many Pixel phones.

The post states, "General improvements for GPU performance in certain conditions" are arriving today (Jan 12).

Of course, these issues primarily concern the Pixel 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL, and the 10 Pro Fold. Other display fixes this month include yet another AOD (always-on display) patch for "flickering under certain conditions." This was a problem that the Pixel 10 series also struggled with quite frequently in December, following that update. Additionally, editing photos in Adobe Lightroom on the Pixel 10 would sometimes produce "noisy line flashes." This has also been fixed.

Strangely, Google states it's rolling out a fix for the Pixel 10 series' touchscreen, as some reports mentioned it would randomly stop working. This should no longer be the case after you download this update, but as always, stay vigilant.

The remainder of the January 2026 patch is as follows:

• Fix for noisy ringback tones experienced during Webex calls under certain conditions
• Fix for issue with battery draining in certain conditions
• Fix for an issue where deleting a Live Universe wallpaper could occasionally cause the Wallpaper and style app to become unusable until the device is rebooted

Working through the issues

The Pixel 10 has been struggling with its GPU since we got our hands on it, as Google has been providing subtle updates since September and October. It's no surprise that the series runs the Tensor G5 chip internally; however, Google's custom chip still falls short in the performance department, often failing users for high-end games. In October, users were reporting lag and freezing while gaming, leaving a sour taste.

Google reportedly promised to continue to improve and update the GPU in its Pixel 10 series, which we're seeing now in January.

It's also worth mentioning that a few of its January patch fixes were also mentioned in December, such as touch issues and battery drain. Display unresponsiveness and problematic touchscreen issues were reported by Pixel 10 users, which prompted the essential mid-December update. However, it seems users are still grappling with lingering issues. January's patch will slowly begin making its rounds, and hopefully, this is the end of these problems.

What you need to know

• Google Pixel shipments grew 25% in 2025, but the brand still trails far behind Apple and Samsung globally.
• Apple led global smartphone growth in 2025, boosted by strong iPhone sales and expansion in emerging markets.
• Samsung shipments grew year over year, but its global market share slipped as competition intensified.
• Smartphone shipments may decline in 2026 due to DRAM shortages and expected price hikes.

According to a new report, Google had a strong 2025, with Pixel sales growing by around 25%. Despite that growth, the data shows that the Pixel brand still trails well behind Apple and Samsung in overall shipments.

Counterpoint Research has released its global smartphone shipment report for 2025, stating that overall smartphone shipments grew 2% year over year compared to 2024. Apple emerged as the biggest beneficiary, with the report claiming the Cupertino company saw a 10% year-over-year increase in shipments, pushing its global market share to 20%.

The report attributes Apple's performance to a strong product mix from the iPhone 16 and iPhone 17 lineup, along with increased traction in emerging and mid-sized markets. This growth came at the expense of some Android brands, as Samsung's market share slipped to 19% in 2025 from 20% in 2024, despite shipments growing by nearly 5% year over year.

A good year for Pixel, but still a long road ahead

Google, meanwhile, enjoyed a standout year. Driven by the Pixel 9 and Pixel 10 series, Pixel shipments grew 25% in 2025 compared to the previous year. That said, Google still remains under the "Others" category in the report, a segment that actually saw its overall market share decline by 1%.

The report also notes that Nothing recorded strong momentum, with shipments increasing by nearly 31% in 2025, though it too remained part of the "Others" category. Among other Android brands, Xiaomi held onto the third spot with a 13% market share, while Vivo posted a modest 3% year-over-year increase in shipments.

Looking ahead, Counterpoint warns that overall smartphone shipments could decline in 2026 due to DRAM shortages and as chipmakers prioritize AI data centers over smartphones. Price hikes may also play a role, with Samsung reportedly considering increases for its upcoming Galaxy S26 series.