As leaks and rumors about the Pixel 11 series begin to surface, there is cautious optimism that Google might turn its fortunes around in 2026 after a less-than-stellar start.
Following the recent unveiling of the Tensor G6 chip and additional spec details from the same source, we are piecing together a comprehensive view of what to expect from Google’s upcoming smartphone launch.
Despite some concerns about Google’s persistent performance issues, there is a sense of optimism that one of these new phones could potentially become my favorite of the year.
Given the challenging start to the year for Google, such a development would indeed be quite a turnaround.
A rough beginning
When the Pixel 10a debuted in March, my assessment was less generous compared to Chris’s favorable review.
While I acknowledge that it’s a solid phone, I struggle to see the appeal when the Google Pixel 9a is still available as a new purchase.
The Pixel 10a and Pixel 9a are nearly identical, and with Google’s extended software support, opting for the discounted Pixel 9a is the wiser choice.
However, Google’s upcoming smartphone lineup excites me immensely.
Mattias Inghe
Exciting Pixel 11 leaks
This week, well-known tipster Mystic Leaks shared a list of specifications for the Google Pixel 11 series, which will feature the Pixel 11 Pro (with an XL variant) and the Pixel 11 Pro Fold.
The leaker suggests that Google is implementing several internal upgrades in the Pixel 11 lineup, including a significantly improved CPU, a new MediaTek M90 modem, a new TPU, and a custom ISP.
The noteworthy aspect is the complete overhaul of the camera hardware across the Pixel 11 series.
The Pixel 11 and Pixel 11 Pro Fold are expected to feature a new 50Mp sensor codenamed “chemosh,” while the Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL will be equipped with new main and telephoto sensors named “bastet” and “barghest,” respectively.
Anyron Copeman / Foundry
A change can be refreshing
Details on how these new camera sensors will differ are not yet available, but the shift in hardware is noteworthy. The Pixel series has experienced several generations of relative stagnation, if not regression, especially with the Pixel 10.
Google has traditionally focused on software and image processing to achieve impressive results. However, as technology evolves, there is a need for larger, more advanced sensors to make a substantial impact.
Competitors like Xiaomi 17 Ultra and Oppo Find X9 Ultra are setting the standard with cutting-edge hardware, making it crucial for Google to elevate its photography capabilities. This recent leak offers hope that Google is gearing up to meet these expectations.
Chris Martin / Foundy
Pixel gets a bright new feature
An anticipated enhancement resembling a cosmetic touch from Nothing is expected, and I welcome this change.
Rumors suggest Google will introduce a “Pixel Glow” system to replace the outgoing temperature sensor on the Pixel 11 Pro’s camera bar. This system, similar to the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro’s Glyph system but on a smaller scale, will utilize LEDs for heads-up animations and advanced notifications.
On the downside, Google’s anticipated Face ID-like secure system won’t make it into the Pixel 11 series. However, this isn’t a significant issue, as Google’s non-IR-based system is already more secure than most.
Additional Pixel 11 specifications
While the rest of the Pixel 11 specifications may not be as thrilling, they still indicate some advancement.
The screens are expected to remain similar but with increased brightness. The Pixel 11’s display will rise from 2000 to 2250 nits, and the Pixel 11 Pro will increase from 2200 to 2450 nits.
These figures reflect realistic high brightness mode conditions rather than exaggerated ‘peak’ HDR numbers often cited by other manufacturers. The Pixel 10 series already boasts some of the brightest displays, and the Pixel 11 range appears set to continue that trend.
There is a slight concern about the reduced entry model RAM (8GB for the Pixel 11 and 12GB for the other models), but given the industry’s component pricing challenges, this could be a subtle way for Google to introduce a price increase. It’s certainly preferable to the Pixel 10a’s approach, which made no significant enhancements.
The Google Pixel 10 Pro has been one of my most frequently used phones over the past six months. If the Pixel 11 series launches as planned this August, the Pixel 11 Pro might just become my go-to device as we move into 2027.
