Google Pixel 10 Leak Reveals Massive 'Pro-Level' Upgrade

Ahead of Google Pixel 9a launch, anticipation is reaching a new high among fans, but for a different smartphone. While the rollout is expected on March 19, ahead of that, a fresh leak has already shifted attention to the Google Pixel 10 lineup, which is expected to release later in August.

On March 13, OnLeaks and Android Headlines revealed renders for the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL. At first glance, the designs appear nearly identical to their predecessors, with unchanged dimensions and a familiar look. 

Speculations suggest the Google Pixel 10 series could bring some noteworthy upgrades, including brighter displays, better battery life and potentially even a memory boost beyond 16GB.

However, there is one detail that has grabbed attention. The leak hints at the possibility of a telephoto lens on the standard Pixel 10. This challenges Google’s long-standing strategy of reserving telephoto capabilities for its Pro models, according to a report in Android Police.

If the CAD-based renders from OnLeaks prove accurate, the Pixel 10 could blur the lines between the base and Pro variants. This is quite opposite of Apple's strategy, which seeks to create a huge gap between the standard models and the Pro variants. While the Tensor G5 chipset remains a major driver of innovation, this shift in camera hardware is what truly has tech enthusiasts talking.

The latest renders have confirmed the approximate dimensions of the Pixel 10, suggesting that Google may retain the 6.3-inch display seen in the Pixel 9. Additionally, the device is expected to feature a triple rear camera setup. The Pixel 10’s dimensions are reported to be 152.8 x 72 x 8.6mm.

A notable detail in the CAD-based images is the presence of an additional sensor on the Pixel 10. According to OnLeaks, this could be either a telephoto or periscope lens. If accurate, this would mark a significant upgrade, potentially eliminating one of the key differentiators that currently justify the higher price of the Pro models.

This development suggests that both the Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro could feature main, ultra-wide, and telephoto sensors.

Reports also indicate that the Pixel 10's camera module will extend an additional 3.4mm, bringing the total thickness to 12mm—a measurement nearly identical to the Pixel 9.

If the Pixel 10 receives a zoom-focused camera upgrade, it would offer significantly better value for money. Android Police suggests that even a 2x telephoto sensor could enhance the device’s zoom capabilities, allowing it to reach up to 16x zoom, compared with the 8x zoom currently available on the Pixel 9.

However, it seems unlikely that Google will equip the Pixel 10 with the 5x periscope lens found in the Pro models. Why? This would undermine the Pixel 10 Pro's position in the lineup to a large extent.