Highlights

• The base Pixel 10 will reportedly introduce a telephoto lens for the first time.
• However, overall camera hardware will be downgraded compared to previous models.
• The Pixel Pro models won’t see major hardware changes, relying on the new Tensor G5 chip and improved image processing.
• The series is expected to launch later this year.

Caption – Google Pixel 10 Series previously leaked render. (Image credit – OnLeaks/Android Headlines)

As the launch of the Google Pixel 10 series gets closer, more leaks are surfacing and this time, it’s all about the camera hardware. A new report from Android Authority based on internal Google documents reveals some big changes coming to the Pixel 10 lineup.

Telephoto Comes to the Base Pixel 10

Caption – Pixel 10 Series camera details leaked. (Image credit – Android Authority)

Since the Pixel 6, Google has stuck to a simple camera strategy where the regular models get wide and ultrawide lenses. While the Pro versions also include a telephoto camera. But this year, Google is shaking things up.

For the first time, the base Pixel 10 will come with a dedicated telephoto lens, similar to what you’d find on the Pro models.

Sounds like a win, right? Well, there’s a catch.

Pixel 10 Gets a Telephoto Lens, But With Downgrades

While the Pixel 10 is getting a third camera, the overall setup is actually less powerful than what we’ve seen on previous base models. In fact, some of the sensors are more in line with what’s used in the more affordable Pixel 9a.

The main camera sensor has been swapped from the GNV to the Samsung GN8, which is a smaller sensor. This generally means it may not perform as well, especially in low-light situations. The ultrawide camera is also a downgrade, now using the Sony IMX712 instead of the more advanced IMX858, a sensor previously seen on the Pixel 9a.

The telephoto lens itself is the 11MP Samsung 3J1, which was also used in the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. And as for the selfie camera, it remains unchanged from last year.

Pixel 10 Pro Models – No Hardware Changes Expected

While the base Pixel 10 is getting a near-total camera overhaul, the Pro models are expected to stick with the same hardware as last year. Google is likely hoping that the new Tensor G5 chip, along with updated algorithms and image processing, will bring better results without needing new sensors.

The Pixel 10 Pro Fold will also have only a minor change, replacing the primary Sony IMX787 sensor with the Samsung GN8, just like the base Pixel 10.

Last year, Google started creating a bigger gap between its base and Pro Pixel phones, and the Pixel 10 series continues that trend. While it’s great to see the addition of a telephoto lens on the regular Pixel 10, the downgrades in the primary and ultrawide cameras might leave some users disappointed.

These compromises were likely made to balance the cost of adding an extra lens and maybe even to free up space in the phone. But depending on the final price tag, the trade-off might not be worth it. If Google sticks to the same $799 price as last year, the Pixel 10 could end up being a tougher sell compared to the Pixel 9a, especially for those who just want a reliable camera experience.

The Pixel 10 series is expected to launch later this year, so we won’t have to wait too long to see how it all pans out.

FAQs

Q1. What is the key camera upgrade in the base Pixel 10?

Answer. For the first time, the base Pixel 10 includes a dedicated telephoto lens, a feature previously reserved for Pro models.

Q2. Are there any changes to the Pixel 10 Pro camera hardware?

Answer. No, the Pixel 10 Pro models are expected to retain the same camera hardware as last year, relying instead on the new Tensor G5 chip for image processing improvements.

Q3. What concerns are there about the Pixel 10’s camera quality?

Answer. While the Pixel 10 adds a telephoto lens, its main and ultrawide sensors are downgraded, using hardware similar to the Pixel 9a, which may affect overall camera performance.

Also Read: Google’s Tensor G5 chip reportedly designed, set to power Pixel 10 series in 2025

Also Read: Google Pixel 10 Pro and Pro XL CAD renders reveal familiar design