Google's latest Pixel 10 prototype surfaces on a Chinese auction platform
In the world of tech, rumours and leaks about Google's upcoming devices are always a hot topic. The latest buzz surrounds the Pixel 10, the successor to the Pixel 9, and here's what we know so far.
The base model of the Pixel 10 is rumoured to start at 128GB storage and is expected to undergo a significant change, with the addition of a telephoto lens. This lens, a 10.8MP telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom, will mark the first time a non-Pro Pixel model features such a lens. However, this addition may come at a cost, as the main sensor quality may potentially be compromised. The expected main sensor for the Pixel 10 is a 48-megapixel, 1/2.0-inch sensor, which is a downgrade from the Pixel 9’s larger 50MP, 1/1.31-inch sensor. This reduction in sensor size could mean that the Pixel 10’s main camera might capture less light and detail natively, potentially impacting raw image quality.
The ultrawide sensor is also reported to see a downgrade, from 48MP to 12MP. This change is likely to offset the addition of the telephoto lens and its associated hardware, providing a balance between versatility and resolution.
Despite the lower-spec sensor, Google’s strength in computational photography and image processing means the overall photographic experience could still be strong, leveraging software optimization to offset some hardware compromises.
The Pixel 10 is also expected to support faster 'Qi2 Wireless Charging' and may require new cases due to the design changes.
Recently, a prototype motherboard of the Pixel 10 was listed on a Chinese auction site. Although the listing contains some unusual elements, many elements of the device, including design and prototype branding, seem to suggest the motherboard is from a real Pixel 10. Interestingly, the motherboard shares resemblance with the Tensor G5 chip, which is associated with the Pixel 10.
New colour names for the Pixel 10 have surfaced, but Google has yet to officially confirm these. A gallery comparing the Pixel 10 to no one's surprise is available for those eager to see the device in action.
As we wait for the official announcement, the Pixel 10 is shaping up to be an intriguing device, with its unique blend of features and potential compromises. It remains to be seen how these changes will differentiate the Pixel 10 from the Pixel 9 and its A-series successor.
[1] Source 1 [2] Source 2 [3] Source 3 [5] Source 5 (for ultrawide sensor information)
The Pixel 10, Google's upcoming device, is expected to come with a base model sporting a 128GB storage and a telephoto lens, marking the first time a non-Pro Pixel model features such a lens. This device will also reportedly feature smartphones with a 48-megapixel main camera, a downgrade from its predecessor, the Pixel 9. The addition of high-end gadgets like a telephoto lens and the potential for strong image processing software may offset any compromises made in the technology department.
