August 20, 2025 • 17 mins
Something remarkable is happening with Google's Pixel 10 launch – the company has essentially revealed nearly everything about their new devices before the official announcement. This unprecedented transparency gives us a fascinating window into Google's strategic direction for their flagship ecosystem.
The Pixel 10 series represents Google doubling down on what they believe differentiates them in the smartphone market: artificial intelligence. While the new Tensor G5 chip shows impressive gains (46% better multi-core performance over previous generations), Google isn't chasing benchmark supremacy. Instead, they're building what we might call an "AI marathon runner" – a device optimized for sustained, intelligent processing rather than brief sprints of raw computing power. New features like Gemini Live for real-time object recognition and Coach Photo for photography guidance demonstrate this philosophy in action.
Photography continues to evolve in interesting ways across the lineup. The base Pixel 10 gains a 5x telephoto lens, bringing tri-camera versatility to the standard model, while Pro versions push toward 100x zoom capabilities. This raises questions about the balance between hardware and computational photography – can Google's AI processing deliver usable results at extreme magnifications? Some users have expressed concerns about overly aggressive processing creating "an automatic Instagram filter you didn't ask for."
Perhaps most surprising is Google's adoption of MagSafe-style magnets with their new "Pixel Snap" system. Far from simply copying Apple, Google appears to be leapfrogging their competitor by supporting the Q2.2 wireless charging standard at up to 60W – four times faster than Apple's current 15W MagSafe capability. This move, alongside going eSIM-only in US models, suggests Google is finding its own path forward while strategically learning from Apple's ecosystem approach.
The broader Pixel family gets meaningful updates too. The Pixel Watch 4 integrates Gemini AI with a brighter 3,000-nit display, while Pixel Buds 2a add active noise cancellation at a higher price point. Quality-of-life improvements across devices include faster storage, improved repairability, and enhanced charging speeds.
Try the Pixel 10 series when it ships around August 28th to experience Google's vision of an AI-first mobile future. What features are you most excited about – the magnetic ecosystem, camera enhancements, or AI capabilities?
Leave your thoughts in the comments and subscribe for more tech updates and reviews.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Allan (00:00):
All right, buckle up everyone, because if you've been
watching the tech world lately,you know Google's Pixel 10
launch feels less like a bigreveal and more like well, like
Google just left their entirekeynote script on a park bench.
Ida (00:15):
Yeah, it's almost hilariously transparent, isn't
it?
Allan (00:19):
It really is.
It certainly makes you wonderabout their strategy here.
Are they even trying to keepsecrets?
Ida (00:25):
It does make you wonder.
You could argue it's, you know,a deliberate move to get ahead
of the rumor mill.
Maybe, or maybe it just showshow hard it is to keep anything
secret these days.
Allan (00:34):
Right.
Either way, it means we have alot to talk about before the
actual event.
Exactly Loads it's like they'resaying here have all the info,
you inquisitive minds.
But today our mission really isto cut through that noise for
you.
We want to distill the truthfrom this.
Well, this flood of pre-launchinfo, we're diving deep into the
Google Pixel 10 series, thephones, the Pixel Watch 4, the
(00:57):
Pixel Buds 2a, the whole kit andcaboodle.
Ida (01:00):
It's a full lineup.
Allan (01:00):
We're going to highlight the surprising bits, offer some
real insights and, yeah, try tohave a bit of fun with it too.
We'll definitely unpack whatthese new pixels mean for you,
especially when you stack themup against the competition, like
, say, apple's iPhone.
Ida (01:14):
And to do that, we've basically gathered everything we
could find Leaked ads,benchmark scores, even what
people are saying on places likeReddit.
Yeah, the forums have been busyoh yeah, we want to give you
the clearest picture possiblebefore Google actually gets on
stage.
Allan (01:29):
Okay, let's kick things off with the Pixel 10 phones
themselves.
The sheer volume of leaks, it'skind of wild.
Ida (01:36):
Do you think this is Google being like strategically open,
Maybe trying to tempt someiPhone users over early, or is
it just chaos?
Allan (01:45):
Well, what's really fascinating is that it strongly
suggests this is a refinementyear for Google.
Ida (01:50):
Ah okay, Iteration, not revolution.
Allan (01:53):
Exactly.
The design of the Pixel 10series looks pretty much
identical to last year's Pixel 9.
Which, you know, depending onwho you ask, is either smart if
it ain't broke, don't fix it ormaybe a bit of a missed
opportunity for something fresh.
Hmm, I get consistency, but ina market that moves so fast
doesn't sticking with the samelook risk feeling a bit stale.
Ida (02:16):
Yeah.
Allan (02:17):
Especially if you're trying to grab attention from
you know Apple, who usuallytweak their designs each year.
Ida (02:21):
That's a really valid point .
There are some minor chassischanges, apparently just slight
dimension tweaks.
Yeah, which could be annoyingif you have existing accessories
.
So if you're upgrading from aPixel 9 and thinking, great, my
cases will fit.
Spoiler alert probably not.
Allan (02:37):
Of course not.
That's the classic move, isn'tit?
Ida (02:40):
Yeah.
Allan (02:41):
My perfectly good collection of phone cases
useless overnight.
Ida (02:44):
Happens almost every time.
It's those little practicalthings that can really frustrate
people.
Allan (02:48):
Definitely.
But OK, if the design is mostlythe same, where's the real
innovation?
Has to be under the hood, rightthe engine, presumably yeah.
Ida (02:55):
Let's talk about the brains .
Then the Tensor G5 chip.
Everyone's sort of been hopingthat Google's own silicon, now
being made by TSMC you know, thewizards behind Apple's chips
too will finally hit those toptier performance numbers.
Are we there yet?
Is this the year?
Well, almost Not quite.
The benchmark results we'veseen for the Pixel 10 Pro XL do
(03:16):
show a pretty significant upliftover the last one.
Ok, like 21% better in singlecore tests and a big 46% jump in
multi-core.
That sounds great on its own46% is chunky.
It is.
Allan (03:28):
However, and here's the context if you compare those
scores, it still seems to lagbehind Qualcomm's latest, the
Snapdragon 8 Elite Ah, the chipwe'll see in phones like the new
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra.
Ida (03:41):
Exactly, and gaming phones like the Red Magic 10 Pro.
So faster Pixel, yes, but stillnot quite leading the pack on
raw speed benchmarks.
Allan (03:49):
So it's faster, but not blew your socks off faster
compared to the competition.
Yeah, and Google just OK withbeing good enough on speed.
Ida (03:57):
I don't think it's about settling.
It seems more like a strategicchoice.
Google's whole philosophy.
What they've been saying isn'treally about topping benchmarks
anymore.
Allan (04:04):
They focus on AI.
Ida (04:05):
Precisely.
They talk about efficiency anduse cases specific to Google
smartphones.
They're basically trying todefine performance differently,
focusing on how well the chiphandles their AI stuff on device
.
Allan (04:16):
OK, that makes sense.
Ida (04:17):
It's kind of like Google saying look, we're not building
a drag racer, we're building areally smart marathon runner who
maybe stops for an AI-poweredsnack break now and then.
Allan (04:27):
Huh, I like that An AI snack break.
So they're prioritizing thingslike maybe real-time translation
or photo processing over justraw gaming frame rates.
Ida (04:38):
That seems to be the bet.
Yes, sustained AI performanceintegrated deeply, rather than
just peak benchmark scores.
Allan (04:45):
Well, that leads us perfectly into the actual AI
features.
Then, if they're building thisAI marathon runner, what can it
do?
The leaked ads hinted somestuff.
Ida (04:54):
Yeah, some interesting concepts.
Allan (04:55):
We've heard about Gemini Live that sounds like you point
your camera at something like acoffee machine and it instantly
tells you about it.
Ida (05:02):
Right Real-time object recognition and information
retrieval.
Allan (05:06):
And coach photo.
That sounds like having alittle photo expert in your
pocket giving you tips onframing or lighting as you take
this shot.
That actually soundspotentially really useful.
Ida (05:14):
It does sound promising, but it also brings up a big
question how much do peopleactually want or use these AI
features day to day?
Allan (05:24):
Yes, that's the million dollar question.
Ida (05:26):
We've seen chatter online, like on Reddit, where some
people are asking does anyoneeven use Gemini?
But then others jump indefending the latest version,
Gemini 2.5, saying it's waybetter than other AIs out there.
Allan (05:38):
So a bit of a split opinion.
Ida (05:40):
Definitely.
It's clear Google is bettingthe farm on AI, hoping it can
level the professional gradephotography field for ordinary
users, as one leak put it.
But whether users embrace it,that's key.
It's their big differentiatoragainst phones just pushing raw
speed.
Allan (05:57):
Trying to make AI the reason you buy a Pixel.
Ida (05:59):
Exactly, not just a bullet point.
Allan (06:01):
OK, let's shift to cameras, because that's always
been Pixel territory.
Right Computational photographychamps.
Ida (06:06):
Historically yes.
Allan (06:07):
The base Pixel 10.
It's apparently getting a thirdcamera, telephoto lens with 5x
optical zoom.
That feels like a big deal forthe standard model.
It really is no-transcriptExactly, but hang on.
Some leaks also suggest themain sensor on that base model
might be a step down fromprevious pixels.
(06:28):
What's going on there, givingwith one hand, taking with the
other?
Ida (06:31):
You're right to pick up on that nuance.
The leaks point to the basePixel 10 getting a 48 megapixel
primary sensor, whereas the promodels stick with 50 MP.
But yes, it gains that 10.8 MPsensor with 5x telephoto zoom
which, interestingly, isapparently the same telephoto
expected in the Pixel 10 ProFold.
Allan (06:49):
And the Pro models.
Any major camera changes there.
Ida (06:52):
For the regular Pro and Pro XL, the cameras seem largely
the same hardware as last year'sPixel 9 Pro series.
The main upgrade is that thetelephoto lens now gets macro
photography capabilities.
Close-up shots with the zoomlens.
Allan (07:04):
Okay, so the strategy it feels like they're really
confident in their software,maybe adding reach to the base
model, even if the main sensorspec drops slightly.
Ida (07:13):
That's probably it.
Google's betting that theircomputational photography, their
AI smarts, can more than makeup for a slightly different
sensor spec on the base model,while giving it that extra
versatility of the telephoto.
It really leans into theirsoftware-first, ai-first
approach to imaging.
Allan (07:30):
And what about this 100x zoom claim for the pro phones?
Because, let's be honest,remember when other phones
started shouting about 100x zoom, the results often looked like
a blurry mess, like animpressionist painting done with
pixels.
Ida (07:45):
Exactly, we've all seen those shots.
I remember trying one on a trip, once aiming at a landmark.
Yeah, it was more abstract artthan photo.
Allan (07:51):
So Google claiming this, is their AI going to perform
some kind of magic trick to make100x actually usable, or is it
just a big number for themarketing?
Ida (08:00):
That is the crucial question.
Is AI doing some serious heavylifting to clean it up, enhance
details, or is it just specsheet filler?
We've even seen some usersagain on Reddit complaining that
recent pixel AI processing canbe too aggressive.
Allan (08:14):
Oh, interesting, how so.
Ida (08:15):
Some feel it makes photos look unnatural, over sharpened
or boosting colors too muchcompared to older pixels like
the much loved Pixel 4 camera.
They feel it kind of ruins theshot sometimes.
Allan (08:26):
So it's that debate between technically perfect,
according to the AI, and whatlooks naturally good to the
human eye.
Ida (08:33):
Precisely.
It can sometimes feel like anautomatic Instagram filter you
didn't ask for.
So yeah, the proof for that100x zoom will absolutely be in
the pudding, or rather in theactual photos.
Allan (08:44):
Definitely need to see real world examples.
Ok, now here's something thatcould be really big for Android
fans Magnets.
Ida (08:52):
Ah, yes, the magnetic attraction.
Allan (08:53):
The Pixel 10 series is reportedly getting MagSafe style
magnets built right into thephone chassis an entire Pixel
Snap accessory ecosystem.
Google would be the first majorAndroid player to do this
properly.
Ida (09:07):
That is the understanding, yeah.
Allan (09:08):
For years, android users have just watched iPhone folks
snap on wallets chargers mounts.
Now Google's maybe saying holdmy Pixel, apple, we're bringing
bigger magnets.
Ida (09:18):
Well, what's really fascinating here is the
potential beyond just stickingstuff to your phone.
The leaks suggest full supportfor the new Q2.2 wireless
charging standard and get thiscapable of up to 60 watts
wirelessly 60.
Allan (09:32):
Wow, q2.2, that's the latest fastest standard right.
And 60W that's faster than manyphones charged with a cable.
Ida (09:40):
Exactly.
For context, apple's MagSafe iscurrently limited to 15W, so
Google isn't just playing catchup here.
If this 60W figure is true,they could genuinely outpace
Apple at its own MagSafe game.
Allan (09:52):
That's a bold move.
Suddenly.
Magnets aren't just convenient,they're about serious speed too
.
Ida (09:57):
Right, and for everyone who always says who puts their
phone in a case anyway, well,now your case can be part of
this magnetic chargingpowerhouse.
It adds real utility.
Allan (10:05):
OK, Google's clearly not afraid to borrow good ideas.
Ida (10:07):
Yeah.
Allan (10:08):
Or maybe improve on them?
What about another Apple moveDitching the physical SIM card?
Ida (10:12):
Ah, yes eSIM only.
Allan (10:14):
The Pixel 10, 10 Pro and 10 Pro XL in the US are
reportedly going eSIM only, justlike the iPhone 14 did a couple
of years back.
I know that's going to windsome people up.
Ida (10:23):
Oh, absolutely.
It raises that wholeconvenience versus future trend
debate again.
For some people eSIM is greatsimplified setup, maybe easier
carrier switching.
Allan (10:33):
Yeah, less fiddling with tiny bits of plastic.
Ida (10:36):
But for others, especially international travelers, just
grabbing a cheap local physicalSIM when you land has always
been super easy.
Allan (10:43):
Way.
Ida (10:44):
Way easier sometimes than navigating eSIM activation
abroad.
Allan (10:48):
That's a very fair point.
I've done that plenty of times.
Ida (10:51):
So, yeah, it's a clear push towards digital connectivity,
following Apple's lead in the USmarket, but it's definitely
going to frustrate a certaingroup who value that physical
SIM flexibility Worth noting,though the global versions are
still expected to have aphysical slot.
Allan (11:05):
Okay, so it's mainly a US thing for now.
Good to know.
Now it's not just phoneslanding right.
We're also expecting a newPixel Watch 4 and Pixel Buds 2a.
What's the scoop there?
Any major leaps?
Or is it more refinement forthe ecosystem?
Ida (11:18):
Seems like mostly refinement, but with some key
changes.
For the Pixel Watch 4, thedesign looks very similar to the
Watch 2.
Allan (11:24):
Get familiar look.
Ida (11:26):
The big internal shift is apparently having Gemini AI
built in so you get AI poweredresponses, text suggestions,
that kind of thing right on yourwrist, really pushing that AI
smartwatch idea.
Allan (11:37):
Makes sense tying it into their main strategy.
What else?
Ida (11:40):
The screen gets a lot brighter, jumping from 2000 nits
peak brightness up to 3,000nits.
Allan (11:46):
Wow, that's bright.
Should make it much easier tosee outdoors in sunlight.
Ida (11:50):
Definitely that's a common pain point.
So welcome upgrade.
Battery life sees a small bumpto maybe 30 hours on the smaller
one, 40 on the larger, withalways-on display.
Still not challenging thosemulti-day battery champs like
Huawei watches, though.
Allan (12:04):
No week-long battery life , then Shame.
Ida (12:06):
Not yet, no, but they are adding more workout modes over
40, apparently and customrunning plans, so a decent
fitness boost.
Allan (12:14):
Okay, solid watch update.
What about the Buds?
You mentioned the Pixel Buds 2a.
There's a potential price hikecoming.
Ida (12:20):
Yeah, that's the rumor.
Expected to jump to $149, upfrom the $99.
The last A you gain activenoise cancellation, which is
good.
That's a big feature missingfrom the previous A series.
Allan (12:34):
Okay, ANC is nice.
Ida (12:35):
But crucially, it seems they won't have the more
advanced Silent Seal 2 tech thatthe ProBuds have, which is
better at adapting to your earshape for optimal noise blocking
.
Allan (12:45):
Ah, so it's ANC, but maybe not top-tier ANC.
Ida (12:47):
Probably yeah.
Allan (12:48):
Hmm.
Ida (12:49):
Battery life is quoted around 7 hours listening, maybe
20 total with the case and,importantly still, no wireless
charging for the case itself atthis price.
Allan (12:58):
Hmm, $149 ANC, but not the best ANC.
No wireless charging.
Ida (13:04):
Exactly Given that price, you might honestly be better off
keeping an eye out for deals onthe Pixel Buds Pro 2.
You might find them for notmuch more and get a better
overall package.
Allan (13:14):
Yeah, it feels like the 2a might be in a slightly
awkward spot in the lineup atthat price.
Ida (13:18):
Could be.
We'll have to see the finaldetails.
Allan (13:20):
Okay, so a bit of a mixed bag on the wearables.
Let's circle back to the phonesquickly.
Beyond the big specs like chipsand cameras, what about those
everyday quality of life thingsBattery, repairability, storage,
speed, charging?
Ida (13:34):
any nuggets there?
Yeah, definitely some importantdetails On battery, while some
models, like the Pro XL, boastthe largest Pixel battery ever
on paper, 5,200 millisons.
That sounds huge it does, butEU regulatory ratings suggest
the actual real-worldperformance under light use
might be nearly identical to thePixel 9 series.
The ratings put the 10 and 10Pro XL as B overall for battery
(13:57):
life.
The 10 Pro gets an A, but theestimated usage times are all
within minutes of theirpredecessors.
Allan (14:03):
So bigger battery numbers don't automatically mean
massively longer usage,especially for average users
Interesting.
Ida (14:09):
Exactly, it might help more under heavy load perhaps, but
don't expect miracles based juston the MAR rating.
Allan (14:14):
Good expectation setting, anything else.
Ida (14:16):
Yes, some good news.
Repairability seems to begetting a nice bump.
The Pro models are reportedlymoving from a C rating up to a B
.
Allan (14:24):
Oh, that's great.
Easier and maybe cheaper to fixdown the line.
Ida (14:27):
Should be.
Yeah, Big win for consumers.
Also, the Pro models aregetting UFS 4.0 storage.
Allan (14:32):
Which means faster.
Ida (14:34):
Faster everything.
Basically Apps load quicker,files save faster, the whole
system feels smoother.
Ufs 4.0 is a significant speedincrease for internal storage.
Access Nice.
Allan (14:45):
And displays.
Ida (14:46):
Displays across the board are getting brighter by about
200 nits compared to the 9series.
Again, better outdoorvisibility.
Allan (14:53):
Okay, and charting speeds wired charging.
Ida (14:55):
Getting a bump too.
Leaks suggest 29W for the basePixel 10 and the 10 Pro and the
10 Pro XL jumps up to 39W 39W ispretty decent.
Allan (15:06):
My phone's around 25W now and yeah, that extra speed
definitely makes a differencewhen you're in a rush.
Ida (15:11):
For sure.
So lots of those smallerincremental improvements that
add up.
Allan (15:14):
They really do.
They might not grab headlineslike a new camera, but they
improve the daily experience.
So what about price andavailability?
When can people actually buythese things?
Ida (15:23):
Right the crucial info.
Good news on the base Pixel 10pricing seems unchanged at $799.
Allan (15:29):
Okay, holding the line there is good.
Ida (15:31):
The Pro models, however, look like they're getting a $100
price increase.
Allan (15:34):
Ouch why.
Ida (15:35):
It seems, mainly because the base storage is increasing
to 256 GB.
So the Pixel 10 Pro would startat $1099, and the Pro XL at
$1199.
Allan (15:46):
Okay, more storage, but you pay for it Makes sense.
And availability, when do theyship?
Ida (15:51):
The core phones, the 10, 1010 Pro and 10 Pro XL, are
expected to start shippingaround August 28th Pretty soon,
actually.
Allan (15:58):
August 28th.
Ida (15:59):
But the Pixel 10 Pro Fold might be delayed.
Some rumors point to maybe notuntil October 9th for that one.
Allan (16:05):
Ah, a bit of a wait for the foldable fans then.
Ida (16:07):
Seems like it.
Allan (16:07):
All right, so let's try and wrap this all up.
We've waded through the leaks,the benchmarks, the Reddit
debates.
What does this all mean for you, the listener?
Google's clearly making thisbig gold bet on AI.
It feels like they're alsoinching closer to that sort of
Apple-style integrated ecosystemwith things like pixel snap
magnets and going eSIM only inthe US.
Ida (16:27):
Definitely feels like a strategic tightening of the
hardware and software.
Allan (16:31):
So is the Pixel 10 setting a new standard for
Android by, you know, smartlylearning from Apple?
Or is it really carving out itsown unique path, banking
everything on AI smarts,overcoming maybe any slight
hardware gaps?
Ida (16:45):
It's a fascinating question Are they leading or following,
or maybe doing a bit of both?
Allan (16:55):
Yeah.
What parts of all this leakedinfo make you most excited?
Does Pixel Snap tempt you?
Does the AI focus intrigue you?
Or are you maybe a bitskeptical about where Google's
heading maybe with the eSIM moveor the camera processing?
Ida (17:03):
Lots to think about.
Allan (17:04):
Definitely something to chew on as we wait for Google to
finally make it all.
All right, buckle up everyone, because if you've been
watching the tech world lately,you know Google's Pixel 10
launch feels less like a bigreveal and more like well, like
Google just left their entirekeynote script on a park bench.
Ida (00:15):
Yeah, it's almost hilariously transparent, isn't
it?
Allan (00:19):
It really is.
It certainly makes you wonderabout their strategy here.
Are they even trying to keepsecrets?
Ida (00:25):
It does make you wonder.
You could argue it's, you know,a deliberate move to get ahead
of the rumor mill.
Maybe, or maybe it just showshow hard it is to keep anything
secret these days.
Allan (00:34):
Right.
Either way, it means we have alot to talk about before the
actual event.
Exactly Loads it's like they'resaying here have all the info,
you inquisitive minds.
But today our mission really isto cut through that noise for
you.
We want to distill the truthfrom this.
Well, this flood of pre-launchinfo, we're diving deep into the
Google Pixel 10 series, thephones, the Pixel Watch 4, the
(00:57):
Pixel Buds 2a, the whole kit andcaboodle.
Ida (01:00):
It's a full lineup.
Allan (01:00):
We're going to highlight the surprising bits, offer some
real insights and, yeah, try tohave a bit of fun with it too.
We'll definitely unpack whatthese new pixels mean for you,
especially when you stack themup against the competition, like
, say, apple's iPhone.
Ida (01:14):
And to do that, we've basically gathered everything we
could find Leaked ads,benchmark scores, even what
people are saying on places likeReddit.
Yeah, the forums have been busyoh yeah, we want to give you
the clearest picture possiblebefore Google actually gets on
stage.
Allan (01:29):
Okay, let's kick things off with the Pixel 10 phones
themselves.
The sheer volume of leaks, it'skind of wild.
Ida (01:36):
Do you think this is Google being like strategically open,
Maybe trying to tempt someiPhone users over early, or is
it just chaos?
Allan (01:45):
Well, what's really fascinating is that it strongly
suggests this is a refinementyear for Google.
Ida (01:50):
Ah okay, Iteration, not revolution.
Allan (01:53):
Exactly.
The design of the Pixel 10series looks pretty much
identical to last year's Pixel 9.
Which, you know, depending onwho you ask, is either smart if
it ain't broke, don't fix it ormaybe a bit of a missed
opportunity for something fresh.
Hmm, I get consistency, but ina market that moves so fast
doesn't sticking with the samelook risk feeling a bit stale.
Ida (02:16):
Yeah.
Allan (02:17):
Especially if you're trying to grab attention from
you know Apple, who usuallytweak their designs each year.
Ida (02:21):
That's a really valid point .
There are some minor chassischanges, apparently just slight
dimension tweaks.
Yeah, which could be annoyingif you have existing accessories
.
So if you're upgrading from aPixel 9 and thinking, great, my
cases will fit.
Spoiler alert probably not.
Allan (02:37):
Of course not.
That's the classic move, isn'tit?
Ida (02:40):
Yeah.
Allan (02:41):
My perfectly good collection of phone cases
useless overnight.
Ida (02:44):
Happens almost every time.
It's those little practicalthings that can really frustrate
people.
Allan (02:48):
Definitely.
But OK, if the design is mostlythe same, where's the real
innovation?
Has to be under the hood, rightthe engine, presumably yeah.
Ida (02:55):
Let's talk about the brains .
Then the Tensor G5 chip.
Everyone's sort of been hopingthat Google's own silicon, now
being made by TSMC you know, thewizards behind Apple's chips
too will finally hit those toptier performance numbers.
Are we there yet?
Is this the year?
Well, almost Not quite.
The benchmark results we'veseen for the Pixel 10 Pro XL do
(03:16):
show a pretty significant upliftover the last one.
Ok, like 21% better in singlecore tests and a big 46% jump in
multi-core.
That sounds great on its own46% is chunky.
It is.
Allan (03:28):
However, and here's the context if you compare those
scores, it still seems to lagbehind Qualcomm's latest, the
Snapdragon 8 Elite Ah, the chipwe'll see in phones like the new
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra.
Ida (03:41):
Exactly, and gaming phones like the Red Magic 10 Pro.
So faster Pixel, yes, but stillnot quite leading the pack on
raw speed benchmarks.
Allan (03:49):
So it's faster, but not blew your socks off faster
compared to the competition.
Yeah, and Google just OK withbeing good enough on speed.
Ida (03:57):
I don't think it's about settling.
It seems more like a strategicchoice.
Google's whole philosophy.
What they've been saying isn'treally about topping benchmarks
anymore.
Allan (04:04):
They focus on AI.
Ida (04:05):
Precisely.
They talk about efficiency anduse cases specific to Google
smartphones.
They're basically trying todefine performance differently,
focusing on how well the chiphandles their AI stuff on device
.
Allan (04:16):
OK, that makes sense.
Ida (04:17):
It's kind of like Google saying look, we're not building
a drag racer, we're building areally smart marathon runner who
maybe stops for an AI-poweredsnack break now and then.
Allan (04:27):
Huh, I like that An AI snack break.
So they're prioritizing thingslike maybe real-time translation
or photo processing over justraw gaming frame rates.
Ida (04:38):
That seems to be the bet.
Yes, sustained AI performanceintegrated deeply, rather than
just peak benchmark scores.
Allan (04:45):
Well, that leads us perfectly into the actual AI
features.
Then, if they're building thisAI marathon runner, what can it
do?
The leaked ads hinted somestuff.
Ida (04:54):
Yeah, some interesting concepts.
Allan (04:55):
We've heard about Gemini Live that sounds like you point
your camera at something like acoffee machine and it instantly
tells you about it.
Ida (05:02):
Right Real-time object recognition and information
retrieval.
Allan (05:06):
And coach photo.
That sounds like having alittle photo expert in your
pocket giving you tips onframing or lighting as you take
this shot.
That actually soundspotentially really useful.
Ida (05:14):
It does sound promising, but it also brings up a big
question how much do peopleactually want or use these AI
features day to day?
Allan (05:24):
Yes, that's the million dollar question.
Ida (05:26):
We've seen chatter online, like on Reddit, where some
people are asking does anyoneeven use Gemini?
But then others jump indefending the latest version,
Gemini 2.5, saying it's waybetter than other AIs out there.
Allan (05:38):
So a bit of a split opinion.
Ida (05:40):
Definitely.
It's clear Google is bettingthe farm on AI, hoping it can
level the professional gradephotography field for ordinary
users, as one leak put it.
But whether users embrace it,that's key.
It's their big differentiatoragainst phones just pushing raw
speed.
Allan (05:57):
Trying to make AI the reason you buy a Pixel.
Ida (05:59):
Exactly, not just a bullet point.
Allan (06:01):
OK, let's shift to cameras, because that's always
been Pixel territory.
Right Computational photographychamps.
Ida (06:06):
Historically yes.
Allan (06:07):
The base Pixel 10.
It's apparently getting a thirdcamera, telephoto lens with 5x
optical zoom.
That feels like a big deal forthe standard model.
It really is no-transcriptExactly, but hang on.
Some leaks also suggest themain sensor on that base model
might be a step down fromprevious pixels.
(06:28):
What's going on there, givingwith one hand, taking with the
other?
Ida (06:31):
You're right to pick up on that nuance.
The leaks point to the basePixel 10 getting a 48 megapixel
primary sensor, whereas the promodels stick with 50 MP.
But yes, it gains that 10.8 MPsensor with 5x telephoto zoom
which, interestingly, isapparently the same telephoto
expected in the Pixel 10 ProFold.
Allan (06:49):
And the Pro models.
Any major camera changes there.
Ida (06:52):
For the regular Pro and Pro XL, the cameras seem largely
the same hardware as last year'sPixel 9 Pro series.
The main upgrade is that thetelephoto lens now gets macro
photography capabilities.
Close-up shots with the zoomlens.
Allan (07:04):
Okay, so the strategy it feels like they're really
confident in their software,maybe adding reach to the base
model, even if the main sensorspec drops slightly.
Ida (07:13):
That's probably it.
Google's betting that theircomputational photography, their
AI smarts, can more than makeup for a slightly different
sensor spec on the base model,while giving it that extra
versatility of the telephoto.
It really leans into theirsoftware-first, ai-first
approach to imaging.
Allan (07:30):
And what about this 100x zoom claim for the pro phones?
Because, let's be honest,remember when other phones
started shouting about 100x zoom, the results often looked like
a blurry mess, like animpressionist painting done with
pixels.
Ida (07:45):
Exactly, we've all seen those shots.
I remember trying one on a trip, once aiming at a landmark.
Yeah, it was more abstract artthan photo.
Allan (07:51):
So Google claiming this, is their AI going to perform
some kind of magic trick to make100x actually usable, or is it
just a big number for themarketing?
Ida (08:00):
That is the crucial question.
Is AI doing some serious heavylifting to clean it up, enhance
details, or is it just specsheet filler?
We've even seen some usersagain on Reddit complaining that
recent pixel AI processing canbe too aggressive.
Allan (08:14):
Oh, interesting, how so.
Ida (08:15):
Some feel it makes photos look unnatural, over sharpened
or boosting colors too muchcompared to older pixels like
the much loved Pixel 4 camera.
They feel it kind of ruins theshot sometimes.
Allan (08:26):
So it's that debate between technically perfect,
according to the AI, and whatlooks naturally good to the
human eye.
Ida (08:33):
Precisely.
It can sometimes feel like anautomatic Instagram filter you
didn't ask for.
So yeah, the proof for that100x zoom will absolutely be in
the pudding, or rather in theactual photos.
Allan (08:44):
Definitely need to see real world examples.
Ok, now here's something thatcould be really big for Android
fans Magnets.
Ida (08:52):
Ah, yes, the magnetic attraction.
Allan (08:53):
The Pixel 10 series is reportedly getting MagSafe style
magnets built right into thephone chassis an entire Pixel
Snap accessory ecosystem.
Google would be the first majorAndroid player to do this
properly.
Ida (09:07):
That is the understanding, yeah.
Allan (09:08):
For years, android users have just watched iPhone folks
snap on wallets chargers mounts.
Now Google's maybe saying holdmy Pixel, apple, we're bringing
bigger magnets.
Ida (09:18):
Well, what's really fascinating here is the
potential beyond just stickingstuff to your phone.
The leaks suggest full supportfor the new Q2.2 wireless
charging standard and get thiscapable of up to 60 watts
wirelessly 60.
Allan (09:32):
Wow, q2.2, that's the latest fastest standard right.
And 60W that's faster than manyphones charged with a cable.
Ida (09:40):
Exactly.
For context, apple's MagSafe iscurrently limited to 15W, so
Google isn't just playing catchup here.
If this 60W figure is true,they could genuinely outpace
Apple at its own MagSafe game.
Allan (09:52):
That's a bold move.
Suddenly.
Magnets aren't just convenient,they're about serious speed too
.
Ida (09:57):
Right, and for everyone who always says who puts their
phone in a case anyway, well,now your case can be part of
this magnetic chargingpowerhouse.
It adds real utility.
Allan (10:05):
OK, Google's clearly not afraid to borrow good ideas.
Ida (10:07):
Yeah.
Allan (10:08):
Or maybe improve on them?
What about another Apple moveDitching the physical SIM card?
Ida (10:12):
Ah, yes eSIM only.
Allan (10:14):
The Pixel 10, 10 Pro and 10 Pro XL in the US are
reportedly going eSIM only, justlike the iPhone 14 did a couple
of years back.
I know that's going to windsome people up.
Ida (10:23):
Oh, absolutely.
It raises that wholeconvenience versus future trend
debate again.
For some people eSIM is greatsimplified setup, maybe easier
carrier switching.
Allan (10:33):
Yeah, less fiddling with tiny bits of plastic.
Ida (10:36):
But for others, especially international travelers, just
grabbing a cheap local physicalSIM when you land has always
been super easy.
Allan (10:43):
Way.
Ida (10:44):
Way easier sometimes than navigating eSIM activation
abroad.
Allan (10:48):
That's a very fair point.
I've done that plenty of times.
Ida (10:51):
So, yeah, it's a clear push towards digital connectivity,
following Apple's lead in the USmarket, but it's definitely
going to frustrate a certaingroup who value that physical
SIM flexibility Worth noting,though the global versions are
still expected to have aphysical slot.
Allan (11:05):
Okay, so it's mainly a US thing for now.
Good to know.
Now it's not just phoneslanding right.
We're also expecting a newPixel Watch 4 and Pixel Buds 2a.
What's the scoop there?
Any major leaps?
Or is it more refinement forthe ecosystem?
Ida (11:18):
Seems like mostly refinement, but with some key
changes.
For the Pixel Watch 4, thedesign looks very similar to the
Watch 2.
Allan (11:24):
Get familiar look.
Ida (11:26):
The big internal shift is apparently having Gemini AI
built in so you get AI poweredresponses, text suggestions,
that kind of thing right on yourwrist, really pushing that AI
smartwatch idea.
Allan (11:37):
Makes sense tying it into their main strategy.
What else?
Ida (11:40):
The screen gets a lot brighter, jumping from 2000 nits
peak brightness up to 3,000nits.
Allan (11:46):
Wow, that's bright.
Should make it much easier tosee outdoors in sunlight.
Ida (11:50):
Definitely that's a common pain point.
So welcome upgrade.
Battery life sees a small bumpto maybe 30 hours on the smaller
one, 40 on the larger, withalways-on display.
Still not challenging thosemulti-day battery champs like
Huawei watches, though.
Allan (12:04):
No week-long battery life , then Shame.
Ida (12:06):
Not yet, no, but they are adding more workout modes over
40, apparently and customrunning plans, so a decent
fitness boost.
Allan (12:14):
Okay, solid watch update.
What about the Buds?
You mentioned the Pixel Buds 2a.
There's a potential price hikecoming.
Ida (12:20):
Yeah, that's the rumor.
Expected to jump to $149, upfrom the $99.
The last A you gain activenoise cancellation, which is
good.
That's a big feature missingfrom the previous A series.
Allan (12:34):
Okay, ANC is nice.
Ida (12:35):
But crucially, it seems they won't have the more
advanced Silent Seal 2 tech thatthe ProBuds have, which is
better at adapting to your earshape for optimal noise blocking
.
Allan (12:45):
Ah, so it's ANC, but maybe not top-tier ANC.
Ida (12:47):
Probably yeah.
Allan (12:48):
Hmm.
Ida (12:49):
Battery life is quoted around 7 hours listening, maybe
20 total with the case and,importantly still, no wireless
charging for the case itself atthis price.
Allan (12:58):
Hmm, $149 ANC, but not the best ANC.
No wireless charging.
Ida (13:04):
Exactly Given that price, you might honestly be better off
keeping an eye out for deals onthe Pixel Buds Pro 2.
You might find them for notmuch more and get a better
overall package.
Allan (13:14):
Yeah, it feels like the 2a might be in a slightly
awkward spot in the lineup atthat price.
Ida (13:18):
Could be.
We'll have to see the finaldetails.
Allan (13:20):
Okay, so a bit of a mixed bag on the wearables.
Let's circle back to the phonesquickly.
Beyond the big specs like chipsand cameras, what about those
everyday quality of life thingsBattery, repairability, storage,
speed, charging?
Ida (13:34):
any nuggets there?
Yeah, definitely some importantdetails On battery, while some
models, like the Pro XL, boastthe largest Pixel battery ever
on paper, 5,200 millisons.
That sounds huge it does, butEU regulatory ratings suggest
the actual real-worldperformance under light use
might be nearly identical to thePixel 9 series.
The ratings put the 10 and 10Pro XL as B overall for battery
(13:57):
life.
The 10 Pro gets an A, but theestimated usage times are all
within minutes of theirpredecessors.
Allan (14:03):
So bigger battery numbers don't automatically mean
massively longer usage,especially for average users
Interesting.
Ida (14:09):
Exactly, it might help more under heavy load perhaps, but
don't expect miracles based juston the MAR rating.
Allan (14:14):
Good expectation setting, anything else.
Ida (14:16):
Yes, some good news.
Repairability seems to begetting a nice bump.
The Pro models are reportedlymoving from a C rating up to a B
.
Allan (14:24):
Oh, that's great.
Easier and maybe cheaper to fixdown the line.
Ida (14:27):
Should be.
Yeah, Big win for consumers.
Also, the Pro models aregetting UFS 4.0 storage.
Allan (14:32):
Which means faster.
Ida (14:34):
Faster everything.
Basically Apps load quicker,files save faster, the whole
system feels smoother.
Ufs 4.0 is a significant speedincrease for internal storage.
Access Nice.
Allan (14:45):
And displays.
Ida (14:46):
Displays across the board are getting brighter by about
200 nits compared to the 9series.
Again, better outdoorvisibility.
Allan (14:53):
Okay, and charting speeds wired charging.
Ida (14:55):
Getting a bump too.
Leaks suggest 29W for the basePixel 10 and the 10 Pro and the
10 Pro XL jumps up to 39W 39W ispretty decent.
Allan (15:06):
My phone's around 25W now and yeah, that extra speed
definitely makes a differencewhen you're in a rush.
Ida (15:11):
For sure.
So lots of those smallerincremental improvements that
add up.
Allan (15:14):
They really do.
They might not grab headlineslike a new camera, but they
improve the daily experience.
So what about price andavailability?
When can people actually buythese things?
Ida (15:23):
Right the crucial info.
Good news on the base Pixel 10pricing seems unchanged at $799.
Allan (15:29):
Okay, holding the line there is good.
Ida (15:31):
The Pro models, however, look like they're getting a $100
price increase.
Allan (15:34):
Ouch why.
Ida (15:35):
It seems, mainly because the base storage is increasing
to 256 GB.
So the Pixel 10 Pro would startat $1099, and the Pro XL at
$1199.
Allan (15:46):
Okay, more storage, but you pay for it Makes sense.
And availability, when do theyship?
Ida (15:51):
The core phones, the 10, 1010 Pro and 10 Pro XL, are
expected to start shippingaround August 28th Pretty soon,
actually.
Allan (15:58):
August 28th.
Ida (15:59):
But the Pixel 10 Pro Fold might be delayed.
Some rumors point to maybe notuntil October 9th for that one.
Allan (16:05):
Ah, a bit of a wait for the foldable fans then.
Ida (16:07):
Seems like it.
Allan (16:07):
All right, so let's try and wrap this all up.
We've waded through the leaks,the benchmarks, the Reddit
debates.
What does this all mean for you, the listener?
Google's clearly making thisbig gold bet on AI.
It feels like they're alsoinching closer to that sort of
Apple-style integrated ecosystemwith things like pixel snap
magnets and going eSIM only inthe US.
Ida (16:27):
Definitely feels like a strategic tightening of the
hardware and software.
Allan (16:31):
So is the Pixel 10 setting a new standard for
Android by, you know, smartlylearning from Apple?
Or is it really carving out itsown unique path, banking
everything on AI smarts,overcoming maybe any slight
hardware gaps?
Ida (16:45):
It's a fascinating question Are they leading or following,
or maybe doing a bit of both?
Allan (16:55):
Yeah.
What parts of all this leakedinfo make you most excited?
Does Pixel Snap tempt you?
Does the AI focus intrigue you?
Or are you maybe a bitskeptical about where Google's
heading maybe with the eSIM moveor the camera processing?
Ida (17:03):
Lots to think about.
Allan (17:04):
Definitely something to chew on as we wait for Google to
finally make it all.
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