Google Found Its Groove, So The Pixel 10 Must Carefully Stay On Track

It almost feels unnatural. In nearly 18 months, I’ve had nothing negative to say about Google Pixel phones. The company released several excellent smartphones, with the Pixel 9a being the best $500 you can spend on a device in 2025. Google listened to customer complaints and addressed several issues with its Pixel flagships. Overheating is mostly a thing of the past, and the company’s phone displays went from a negative to a positive, thanks to its Super Actua panels.

Still, old habits die hard, and I hold my breath for the other shoe to drop. I remember the pain caused by the Pixel 6 and my numerous issues with the Pixel 7a. Google has forged a clear path to success with recent Pixel phones. I only hope it’s smart enough to stay on it.

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I don’t need Snapdragon raw performance

Benchmarks mean nothing

I’m a big supporter of Google using Tensor chipsets. I didn’t have any significant problems with the Tensor G4. While I would’ve enjoyed better gaming performance from my Pixel 9 Pro XL, it’s reportedly being addressed with the Tensor G5, with leaks suggesting 15% improved GPU performance. However, my other complaints were addressed. I don’t experience the heating issues I had with previous Pixel generations, and Google resolved my connectivity issues with the Pixel 7a. I often hear complaints that the Tensor isn’t a flagship chipset, and I disagree. Google simply has a different view of what makes a flagship experience.

I’m not sold on Google Gemini’s added value, especially for the $20 a month the company wants to charge us.

I don’t need Snapdragon 8 Elite raw performance from the Google Pixel 10. And, as it stands currently, neither do you. Extra horsepower is great for futureproofing, but we barely tax the potential power of flagship chipsets from two or three years ago. I don’t see the added value of more power not being utilized, especially if it unnecessarily ups the phone’s price. Google shouldn’t feel the need to compete spec for spec with devices like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, and I hope it’s not goaded into doing so.

Software is the way forward

Google at least has a plan

I’m not sold on Google Gemini’s added value, especially for the $20 a month the company wants to charge us. However, Google has the clearest plan for AI of any Android manufacturer, and while I may disagree with the execution so far, I at least understand the direction. Software is important, and Google seems to realize that the front-end user experience matters most to customers, especially those it hopes will switch from an iPhone. Google’s software is friendly, and it’s odd to say, but Google seems to limit customization for a reason, keeping novice users out of trouble.

I’m looking forward to Android 16 on the Pixel 10. Material 3 Expressive looks fantastic, giving Material You a fresh coat of paint. Google is fleshing out its user experience, and I’m curious how its desktop mode performs. Of course, we can expect the usual Pixel extras like Now Playing and excellent software support. Live lockscreen updates will offer a counter to Samsung’s Now Bar, providing up-to-date information about deliveries or Google Maps directions. Google builds Pixel smartphones to lean heavily into software and the user experience, so new and exciting features are essential for success.

Too many pitfalls

Google could easily stray

I don’t think Google will falter on the Pixel 10’s hardware, but other hazards are waiting. I’d hate to see too many Google Gemini features placed behind a paywall, especially for Pixel buyers. There has to be some sort of discount or exception made for people who spend good money on a Pixel 10, much like Google used to do with free, unlimited photo storage on older Pixel phones. Sure, the various demos we saw at Google I/O 2025 were impressive, but I still don’t know how they significantly improve the user experience. If you’re asking me for money, you’d better change how I use my phone.

I also don’t want to see Google raise the price. I understand there are external factors, but Google has to maintain some value versus the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. It’s harder to ignore or explain away a performance gap when you’re asking for the same money. Google must keep the Pixel 10 priced $100 or more below the competition if it wants to maintain the momentum it’s enjoyed over the last couple of years.

I’m confident overall

I might worry about the Google Pixel 10, but I’m quietly optimistic. I enjoy the company’s Pixel strategy, which balances solid hardware with user-friendly software. Google also seems to listen to real Pixel users instead of worrying about the pleas of tech reviewers. I highly recommend Google Pixel flagship and midrange devices, especially for newer users. With the benefits of Android 16, the Pixel 10 has the potential to be the best Google smartphone yet.