Google has officially unveiled its Pixel 10 smartphone lineup, with the standout feature being its compatibility with Qi2 charging and a range of new ‘Pixelsnap’ accessories.
As highlighted in Google’s promotional material, the Pixel 10 series marks a significant moment as the first major Android phones to integrate the fully magnetised Qi2 charging standard. Although the HMD Skyline was the pioneer in this area, it doesn’t quite qualify as a mainstream release.
With Qi2 support, every Pixel 10 model can securely attach to compatible wireless chargers via strategically placed magnets, enabling wireless charging speeds of up to 25W, contingent on the specific phone variant.
Any certified Qi2 charger will function, including those from Apple’s MagSafe range, as Apple’s system contributed significantly to the Qi2 standard. However, if you’re using a recent MagSafe charger (2024 and beyond), you’ll benefit from 15W charging speeds; otherwise, old models will be limited to 5W.
In a bid to clarify options, Google will offer its own line of Qi2 chargers branded as ‘Pixelsnap’. Here’s what you can expect from the Pixelsnap chargers available with the Pixel 10 launch.
Pixelsnap Charger
The Pixelsnap Charger is a straightforward, puck-shaped charger akin to various third-party iPhone MagSafe options.
Setting it up is easy: simply plug it into a power outlet, then position the puck close to your Pixel 10’s back. The magnets will ensure it remains securely attached.
Retailing at £39.99/$39.99/€49.99, you can purchase the Pixelsnap Charger from Google or Amazon.
While some may find the price a bit steep compared to other third-party options, Pixel 10 Pro XL users can enjoy 25W charging capabilities.
Other models within the Pixel 10 line will only achieve 15W charging from this accessory, so it might be wise to explore alternatives if you own one of the other devices.
Pixelsnap Charger with Stand
Also available is the Pixelsnap Charger Stand, which incorporates the same core charging puck but includes a stand that tilts the Pixel 10 for convenient viewing from a bedside or desktop angle.
As Google states, “When docked and charging, your phone can showcase screensavers, display cherished photos, check weather updates, or control smart home devices.”
The Pixelsnap Charger with Stand retails for £64.99/$69.99/€79.99 and can be found from Google or Amazon.
Pixelsnap Ring Stand
If you don’t need to charge your phone throughout the day but want a way to prop it up, the Pixelsnap Ring Stand offers a simple yet effective solution.
Priced at £29.99/$29.99/€34.99, you can find the Pixelsnap Ring Stand from Google or Amazon for £25.75 at the time of writing. This magnetic accessory attaches to your Pixel 10, featuring an adjustable metal loop to help you position your phone upright.
Boasting a microfiber lining, it allows you to rotate your phone without scratching the glass backing, enabling both portrait and landscape viewing with ease.
This makes for an excellent travel accessory for streaming media while on the move.
Pixelsnap Case
Designed to work seamlessly with the Pixelsnap chargers, the new Pixel 10 cases allow you to use Qi2 chargers without needing to remove the case.
These cases come in a variety of colors that perfectly match each specific model, including Moonstone, Jade, Obsidian, Porcelain, Indigo, Frost, and Lemongrass for the Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro.
For the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, color options are available in Moonstone, Jade, Obsidian, and Porcelain.
Pricing for the Pixel 10 cases is set at £49.99/$49.99/€59.99, while the Fold cases will be priced slightly higher at £64.99/$69.99/€79.99.
Pixel Flex Dual Port 67W USB-C Fast Charger
While not strictly a Pixelsnap accessory, the Pixel Flex Dual Port charger should be mentioned as part of the available accessories. Our Mobile Editor praised it after trying it out.
This traditional wired charger comes with some advanced features; it can distribute its 67W of power between two devices thanks to its dual USB-C ports.
It cleverly prioritises charging for a connected Pixel phone, directing optimal power to it while supplying the remaining capacity to a secondary device. Plus, it’s compact enough to make it ideal for travel.
The Pixel Flex Dual Port charger is priced at £54.99/$59.99/€64.99 and can be purchased from Google or Amazon.
